Are you planning a trip to Kenya and wondering about the procedure for obtaining your ETA? You've come to the right place! In this article, we'll look at the Electronic Travel Authorisation (ETA), which makes it easier to apply to travel to Kenya. We'll look at what the ETA is, how to complete the application online and whether or not it's possible to complete the ETA on arrival in Kenya.
What is ETA?
Electronic Travel Authorisation (ETA) is an electronic system introduced by the Kenyan government to simplify the process of entering Kenya following the abolition of entry visas on 1 January 2024. ETA allows foreign travellers to apply online, without having to physically visit an embassy or consulate.
What's more, thanks to this electronic authorisation, travellers can avoid having to present any additional paperwork when they arrive in Kenya - all they have to do is present their passport and their printed ETA.
Who can benefit from ETA?
Nationals of most countries are eligible to apply for an ETA. Citizens of the countries of the East African Community (EAC) are among the nationalities exempted.
Applying for an ETA: key stages
To apply for your ETA online, follow these steps:
- Visit a service dedicated to ETA applications. First of all, make sure that your connection is secure and that you are on the right site.
- Complete the ETA application form, taking care to provide all the information required. In particular, you will be asked for your personal details, contact details, passport details and details of the reason for and duration of your stay in Kenya.
- Pay the processing fee for your application. Payment is generally made by credit card and is required to submit your application.
- Print out your ETA confirmation and keep it with you.
Once you have done this, all you have to do is wait for the Kenyan government to reply to your application. The usual processing time is around 3 working days, but this may vary depending on the circumstances.
Do I need to obtain an ETA before arriving in Kenya?
Although the process for obtaining an ETA has been designed to make life easier for travellers, some people are wondering whether it is possible to complete their application for authorisation once they have arrived at Nairobi's Jomo Kenyatta International Airport or another point of entry into Kenya.
The Kenyan authorities require travellers to obtain their ETA before arrival. This allows local authorities to better manage visitor flows and avoid the health risks associated with queuing at airports.
The ETA is an authorisation to travel to Kenya and not a visa as such. Obtaining it in advance is therefore essential, if only to board a flight to Kenya.
