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Kenya asks visitors to apply for an Electronic Travel Authorisation (eTA) before they travel. It is easy to leave until the last week, and that is when small problems turn into missed flights. This guide sets out what the official eTA site says, so you can plan with time to spare.
Entry rules can change, and we are a hotel, not an immigration adviser. Always confirm the current requirements on the official site, etakenya.go.ke, before you travel.
Who needs an eTA
The official site says visitors of all ages, including infants and children, must have an approved eTA before the start of their journey. It also lists a number of exemptions. Examples include:
- Holders of Kenyan permanent residence, valid work permits and passes
- Citizens of six East African states (Burundi, DR Congo, Rwanda, South Sudan, Tanzania and Uganda) for stays of up to 180 days
- Nationals of listed countries for short stays, which the site sets at up to 90 days, or up to 60 days for listed African countries
- Passengers in transit who stay within the airport
The full list is long and the conditions matter, so read it on the official page rather than relying on a summary. The site warns that travelling without the required approval may lead to being denied boarding or a penalty fee on arrival.
How long it takes
The site says processing is typically three working days, but it may take longer in some cases. Apply as early as you reasonably can, especially if you are travelling in December or around a big event, and do not wait for the last week.
What to prepare
- A passport with at least six months' validity and one blank page
- A selfie or passport-style photo
- Your email address and phone number
- Your travel itinerary, with arrival and departure details
- Your accommodation booking confirmation
- A payment method
Depending on why you are travelling, the site may also ask for extra documents. These include an invitation letter for a conference, a company invitation letter for business travel, or a host's invitation letter and identification for a family visit. Check the list that matches your reason for travel.
Sort your accommodation first
Because the application asks for an accommodation booking confirmation, it helps to book your room before you apply. If you book with us, ask for your confirmation by email or WhatsApp and attach it to your application.
After you land
- Keep a printed or saved copy of your approved eTA.
- Arrange your airport pickup in advance. Jomo Kenyatta International Airport (JKIA) usually takes 45 to 75 minutes by road to Karen depending on traffic. Our guide to getting from JKIA to Karen covers the options.
- Read the JKIA arrival guide for what to expect at the airport.
Coming for a match? See AFCON 2027: what is confirmed and what is provisional.
Frequently asked questions
Do I need an eTA to visit Kenya?
The official site says visitors of all ages must have an approved eTA before travelling, unless they fall into one of the listed exemptions. Check the current list on etakenya.go.ke.
How long does an eTA take?
The official site says processing is typically three working days, but it may take longer in some cases, so apply early.
Do I need a hotel booking to apply?
The application asks for an accommodation booking confirmation, so it helps to book first. If you book with us, ask for your confirmation by email or WhatsApp.
Stay with us in Karen
Once your dates are set, we can send your booking confirmation and arrange your airport pickup.
Check availability and book direct or message us on WhatsApp and we will help you plan dates, rooms and airport pickup.
