Kenya Visa on Arrival halted: What you must know

Disclaimer: An arrival card is not a visa. It cannot be used as a substitute for a visa and does not grant permission to enter any country. Travelers are responsible for obtaining the appropriate visa, if required, prior to arrival. The arrival card is for administrative purposes only and does not serve as a travel authorization or entry permit.

Looking forward to your Kenyan journey? Discover all you need to know about the updated visa requirements for Kenya.

In January 2024, Kenya introduced the Kenya Electronic Travel Authorization (ETA), effectively replacing the previous eVisa system. This new system simplifies the entry process for visitors, aiming to attract more tourists to this vibrant East African nation.

But the changes go beyond the eVisa; the Kenya ETA has also replaced other visa types. Continue reading to learn how this new arrangement has impacted the Kenya Visa on Arrival.

Can I get a visa once I arrive in Kenya?

When Kenya shifted to an all-online immigration system through the previous eVisa system, international travelers could no longer get visas upon arrival at Kenyan entry points. This practice remains unchanged with the new ETA system in place.

What choices do I have, then?

All foreign visitors, including children and infants, must apply for a Kenya ETA before traveling to the country.

However, nationals from East African Partner States - Burundi, Democratic Republic of Congo, Rwanda, South Sudan, Tanzania, and Uganda - are exempt from applying for an ETA.

What can you do with a Kenya ETA? Learn more here.

When do I need to ask for a Kenyan Transit visa or other types of visa?

The Kenya ETA caters mainly to tourists. If your trip to Kenya is for business, medical, or educational purposes, or if a Kenyan company has employed you, you'll need to apply for a different type of visa. These specific visas require you to apply in person at a Kenyan embassy or consulate, as they're unavailable online.

Can I get a Kenya visa on arrival at the Nairobi Airport?

Unfortunately, that's not an option. You need to secure a Kenya ETA before you arrive in the nation.

What requirements do I need to have?

To apply for a Kenya ETA, you'll need to have the following:

• Valid passport: Every applicant must possess a passport valid for at least 6 months beyond the date you plan to arrive in Kenya, with at least one blank page.

• Passport-size photo or selfie: Provide a current photo, ideally taken within the past three months.

• Flight confirmation: You must submit details about your entry into Kenya, including the date and flight number.

• Accommodation details: You'll need to provide details about where you'll stay in Kenya.

• Means of payment: The ETA fee is processed online. We accept credit or debit cards, PayPal, and Venmo.

Once you have all these requirements, you're all set to begin your ETA application.

How do I apply for my Kenyan electronic visa?

Selecting our platform for your Kenya ETA application means choosing a user-friendly service designed to simplify meeting your travel needs.

Follow this step-by-step guide to get your Kenya ETA through us:

• Step 1: Enter your personal and travel details on our website or via the iVisa app.

• Step 2: Verify that all the information you've provided is accurate and select your preferred processing time. Pay the fees with a credit or debit card, PayPal, or Venmo.

• Step 3: Complete the rest of the application form, upload the required documents, and submit it.

Our team will then review your application for completeness and accuracy. Once your ETA is granted, we'll send it directly to your email. Be sure to print a copy and save a digital version on your device before your trip to Kenya.

In case I need extra info on the other visas, how can I receive it?

If you have questions about applying for a Kenyan ETA, you can get in touch with our customer support team. Contact them any time via WhatsApp or through the [iVisa chat].

For more information about the other types of visas offered by Kenya, you can reach out to the nearest Kenyan embassy or consulate. Use our handy Embassies Finder to help you find one, no matter where you are in the world.