Kenya is a popular destination for nature lovers and beach bums, offering an incredible diversity of landscapes and cultures. If you're planning to take your boat to Kenya, it's essential to find out about the formalities for entering the country. One of the main questions to ask concerns the eTA (electronic travel authorisation). What is it and do you need to apply for one?
What is eTA?
The eTA, or Electronic Travel Authorization, is an electronic travel authorization introduced by many countries to facilitate entry procedures into their territory and take over from their visa exemption.
In practical terms, this is a digital document issued following an online application that allows travel without the need to obtain a traditional visa from an embassy or consulate. It is generally valid for tourist, business or transit stays.
Why apply for an eTA for a stopover by boat in Kenya?
There are several reasons why it may be necessary to apply for an eTA before setting foot on land during a stopover by boat in Kenya:
- Simplifying procedures : The eTA is a practical solution for travellers wishing to visit Kenya without having to go through the stages of a traditional visa application. What's more, the application can be made online, greatly simplifying procedures.
- Time saving : Obtaining an eTA is generally quicker than applying for a visa at an embassy, with an average processing time of just a few days.
- Savings : Applying for an eTA is often cheaper than paying the fees for a traditional visa.
However, it should be noted that the eTA is not issued automatically and must be applied for before arrival in Kenya. It is therefore advisable to find out about the conditions of eligibility for this electronic travel authorisation.
eTA eligibility conditions
To be eligible for eTA, travellers must meet certain conditions:
- Have a valid passport: your passport must be valid for at least six months from the date of your planned entry into Kenya. So make sure that your identity document has not expired during your stopover.
- Have a ticket to leave Kenya: in your application, you must provide proof that you have a ticket to leave the country.
- Pay the application fee: lastly, you need to pay the fee for the eTA application. These fees may vary according to nationality and type of trip (tourist, business or transit).
It is important to note that obtaining an eTA does not automatically guarantee entry into Kenya. The local authorities reserve the right to refuse access to their territory if they deem that the security and immigration conditions have not been met.
How do I apply for an eTA for a stopover by boat in Kenya?
All means of arrival are affected by this ETA. However, the government has made it clear that travellers arriving by boat and stopping over in Kenya without changing boats or staying on the boat without disembarking, are not affected by the ETA.
Who can I contact for further information?
If you have any questions or doubts about your eTA for a stopover by boat in Kenya, please do not hesitate to contact :
- The Kenyan embassy or consulate in your country of departure, which can provide you with precise, up-to-date information on entry formalities.
- Your shipping company or travel insurance company can also give you advice and tips on how to prepare for your stopover in Kenya.
