Enquire

Big news for Kenya… ETA to replace Kenyan tourist visa!

Author — Ololo Safaris

Travel tips

With a bold and courageous move by the Kenya government just a few weeks ago, Kenya has removed the need for international travellers to obtain a visa for Kenya, as of the 1st of January, 2024. In a bid to ‘welcome everyone home’ to the birthplace of mankind, the government has replaced the traditional visa with an online Electronic Travel Authorisation (ETA), encouraging more travellers to put Kenya on their bucket-list!

The ETA Kenya website, set to replace the current online entry visa (eVisa) starting January 1, 2024, is now operational at www.etakenya.go.ke. The new processing fee of $30, will replace the old Visa fee of $51.
 

The application is quite easy, collecting some personal information and trip info, which can be submitted at any time before travel. It is recommended to apply soon after booking your safari with us.

 

Who needs ETA? All foreign visitors, excluding citizens of EAC member states, must obtain an ETA. Applications must be submitted exclusively through the official government website here, with third-party submissions automatically rejected. For those under 18, the application is the responsibility of the legal guardian, parent, or accompanying adult.

 

Application Process: The secure government platform at www.etakenya.go.ke or the official “Kenya Travel Authorization” mobile app is the designated avenue for ETA applications. Each traveler must submit a separate application.

 

Important Notes: The ETA is valid for a single entry; subsequent visits require a new application. Follow these steps for ETA application:

  1. Visit www.etakenya.go.ke

  2. Click “Apply Now” and follow instructions

  3. Ensure accurate data entry

  4. Submit the application

  5. Confirmation email on application receipt

  6. Payment confirmation email if applicable

  7. Approval/rejection email after immigration officer’s decision

 

What will you need:

 
  • Valid passport for at least six (6) month after your planned date of departure out of Kenya with at least one blank page 

  • Selfie or passport-type photo

  • Contact information, email address and phone number

  • Details of your arrival and departure

  • Address at destination: Please enter Ololo Safari Lodge and Farm for the whole duration of your stay in Kenya.

  • Accommodation booking confirmation: If we haven’t already sent this to you, let us know and we’ll send you a copy!

  • Airline Booking confirmation

  • Credit card, debit card, Apple pay or other means of payment

 
 

After Approval: If approved, print the attached PDF or save it in the mobile app. This document serves as the travel authorization and must be presented at departure and arrival. Standard processing time is three (3) working days.

 
 

If Rejected: Contact support-kenya@govtas.com for details on rejection. Travel is prohibited until approval.

 
 

Check Application Status: Visit https://www.etakenya.go.ke to monitor application status. Travel is only permitted post-approval by the Government of Kenya.

 

Karibu Kenya! If you have any questions about the new ETA system, please let us know, we’re happy to help.

Related journals