Do you need a Kenya ETA? The truth about Kenya’s latest travel rule

Before you start planning your adventure to Kenya, there’s something important you should know. Since early 2024, Kenya has required most visitors to get an Electronic Travel Authorization (ETA) before arriving. But there have been some updates, especially for African travelers.

We’re here to make things simple. This guide will help you figure out whether you need an ETA, who’s exempt, and how to apply so you can avoid last-minute headaches and enjoy a stress-free trip.

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Kenya travel requirements: what's new?

Kenya introduced the ETA in January 2024 as a part of a broader move to make travel smoother and safer for everyone entering the country. If you're not from an East African Community (EAC) country, you’ll probably need one. However, in early 2025, Kenya announced upcoming changes to its rules for most African visitors.

In a statement released by the Kenyan government, most African countries will be able to enter Kenya ETA-free for up to two months. However, Somalia and Libya will still require an ETA due to security concerns.

What is the Kenya ETA and why do you need it?

The Kenya ETA is a pre-approval process that helps speed up immigration. It doesn’t guarantee entry because immigration officers still have the final say. However, it ensures your paperwork is in order before you arrive.

iVisa pro tip: Arriving at Jomo Kenyatta International Airport during mid-morning or early evening often means dealing with long immigration lines, as multiple international flights land around the same time. If you have flexibility, booking a flight that lands late at night or early in the morning can help you get through immigration much faster.

Who doesn't need a Kenya ETA?

Some travelers don’t need to worry about getting an ETA:

EAC nationals can stay up to six months without an ETA.
Most African travelers (except Somalia and Libya) will be able to enter Kenya visa-free for up to two months under the 2025 update.
Transit passengers who don’t leave the airport don’t need an ETA.
Flight crew and private pilots making a fuel stop are also exempt.

How to apply for a Kenya ETA

At iVisa, we make applying for your Kenya ETA simple and stress-free. Our paid service is designed to save you time and reduce the risk of mistakes that could delay or deny your application.

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Here's how it works:

Enter your details: Provide your personal and travel information on our website or through the iVisa app.
Review and pay: Double-check that your information is correct, then pay the visa and service fees using your preferred payment method.
Submit your application: Upload the required documents and submit your form.

Once your ETA is approved, it will be sent directly to the email address you provided. Make sure the email is valid and one you check often. If you don’t see the ETA in your inbox, don’t forget to check your spam or junk folder.

Apply for a Kenya ETA now

Preparing for your arrival in Kenya

Make sure you have everything ready before you land, including:

A passport valid for at least six months with at least two blank pages.
A printed or digital copy of your ETA.
A yellow fever vaccination certificate (if required based on your travel history).
Any prescription medications you might need during your stay.

iVisa travel hack: Some airlines, like Ethiopian Airlines, have been known to require a printed copy of your Kenya ETA before allowing passengers to board. Not all airlines do this, but it’s worth checking in advance to avoid last-minute surprises at the departure airport. Printing a copy is a simple step that can save a lot of hassle.

Customs and immigration in Kenya

When you arrive in Kenya, immigration officers will check your passport and ETA. Be prepared to answer basic questions about your travel plans, such as your accommodation details and the purpose of your visit. Having all your documents, like your return ticket and proof of accommodations, ready will make this process quicker.

You can bring in personal items duty-free, including up to 250 grams of tobacco products and 500 ml of alcohol, with a limit of 125 ml of perfume. However, avoid carrying prohibited items like counterfeit currency or hazardous materials.