Kenyan visa resources
Kenya eTA explained
How Kenya's eTA works — Kenya replaced visas with a mandatory eTA, who needs one, who is exempt, and applying only via the official website or app.
Important
Kenya has replaced traditional visas with a mandatory Electronic Travel Authorization (eTA). This page explains the system in plain language, drawing on the official Directorate of Immigration Services and Kenya eTA guidance; always use the official website or app and confirm the requirements for your nationality.
Kenya replaced visas with the eTA
According to the Directorate of Immigration Services, Kenya has replaced traditional visas with a mandatory eTA. It is an online travel authorization you obtain before travel rather than a visa issued in your passport.
Who needs an eTA
All visitors — including infants and children — must have an approved eTA before travelling to Kenya, with the exception of citizens of East African Community (EAC) member states. Check the official guidance for your nationality.
Apply only on the official service
Apply only through the official Kenya eTA website at etakenya.go.ke or the official "Kenya Travel Authorisation" mobile app. Look-alike third-party sites are not the government service.
Related authorizations
For travel across the region, the East African Tourist Visa is a joint authorization for tourism in Kenya, Rwanda and Uganda, and a dedicated Transit eTA covers passing through Kenya. Check which route applies to your trip.
Next steps
Official sources
For the most accurate and up-to-date information, always refer to the official government sources.
Verified against official sources · last reviewed 2026-08-09. Information only — not legal advice.