Kenya Visa Requirements 2026 and 2027: eTA, Exemptions and Entry

Reviewed 14 October 2026 by the PMK team. Planning a Kenya safari in 2026 or 2027? Check your entry requirements before paying for an application. Many travellers search for a Kenya tourist visa, but the current application for visitors who need advance travel authorisation is the Kenya Electronic Travel Authorisation, or eTA.

Do you need a Kenya visa or eTA?

An eTA is permission to travel to Kenya. It does not guarantee admission, which immigration determines at arrival. Some travellers are exempt. Do not assume everyone needs to apply, and do not confuse an eTA with the former eVisa process.

Check eTA exemptions before applying

The official portal lists exemptions by nationality, immigration status and travel circumstances. Examples include eligible East African Partner State citizens and nationals of countries such as Singapore and South Africa. Different exemptions have different permitted periods. Certain residence and permit holders and passengers remaining within the airport transit area are also covered.

Use the official exemption list for your passport and circumstances. This is more reliable than a blanket claim that all tourists must apply.

Documents to prepare for your safari

If you need an eTA, the official checklist includes a passport with at least six months validity and a blank page, a selfie or passport style photo, contact details, arrival and departure itinerary, accommodation confirmation and a payment method. Additional documents may be requested for your circumstances.

Keep your safari booking details consistent with your application. The PMK team can provide the itinerary and accommodation details for your confirmed booking, so you have a clear record of where you are staying and how your trip is arranged.

Kenya eTA cost and processing time

The official eligibility page currently lists the standard single entry eTA at USD 30. Check the total shown at checkout and the correct authorisation type before paying. Processing is usually about three working days and can take longer. The official portal recommends applying at least two weeks before travel.

Read the current official eTA options and fees. Avoid treating an expedited service or an agent’s charge as the standard government fee.

How to apply

1. Check whether you are exempt using the official portal.
2. If required, apply at etakenya.go.ke using details that match your passport and booking.
3. Upload the requested documents and review the application carefully.
4. Pay the displayed total, then monitor the application and any requests for more information.
5. Keep your approved authorisation with your passport and travel documents.

For a fuller walkthrough, read our Kenya eTA application guide for 2026 and 2027.

Mandatory travel health insurance: October 2026 update

Insurance is now part of preparing for entry, separately from checking eTA eligibility. Arrange the required cover through the official government services before departure if it applies to you. Already have an eTA? Check your insurance status too.

Read our updated Kenya travel insurance requirements and safari checklist for the October changes, exemptions, costs, children’s cover and proof to keep. It links directly to the official insurance and eTA portals.

What to have ready on arrival

Keep your passport, approved eTA if required, onward travel information, applicable insurance confirmation and accommodation or safari confirmation accessible. Answer immigration questions using your actual travel plans. Check the period of stay granted at entry rather than assuming every visitor receives the same allowance.

Planning a Kenya and Tanzania safari?

A Kenya eTA does not replace Tanzania’s entry requirements. If your itinerary crosses the border and returns to Kenya, check the rules for both countries and your reentry arrangements before booking. Give the PMK team your planned route so we can help you organise the itinerary and booking documents.

Important note for 2027 departures

This guide reflects official information reviewed on 14 October 2026. It is a planning reference for 2026 and 2027, rather than a guarantee that fees or eligibility rules will stay unchanged. Recheck the official portal before applying and again before departure.

Plan your safari with the PMK team

Your holiday should begin with a clear plan. Tell us your dates, group size, preferred parks and budget. We will help you choose a route and accommodation that suit you, with the booking details clearly explained.

Compare Kenya safari packages or request your personalised safari quote. No payment is required to enquire.