Kenya Entry Requirements for Chinese Citizens: eTA Explained

Kenya is an ideal destination for any type of traveler: adventurers will enjoy climbing Africa's second-highest mountain, Mount Kenya; food enthusiasts can explore Nairobi’s many markets and cafés, and those looking for a once-in-a-lifetime experience can go on a wildlife safari through the plains of Samburu National Reserve.

If you've always wanted to visit Kenya, now is the time. It is now easier than ever to obtain the required travel authorization through Kenya’s Electronic Travel Authorization (eTA) system. Eligible Chinese citizens can obtain the required travel authorization through the Kenya eTA system, which replaces the former electronic visa system.

Kenyan authorities have recently changed their entry requirements.  Previously, you would have been required to apply for an e-visa before arrival. They have now replaced this system with the Electronic Travel Authorization (eTA), which still needs to be applied for before you arrive in the country.

Do you want to know how to apply for the Kenya eTA (previously the eVisa) for Chinese citizens? What are the Kenya ETA requirements for Chinese citizens? This article will give you all the information you need to know.

Kenya eTA for Chinese Citizens: How to Get a Kenya eTA from China

What is the Kenya eTA (previously the eVisa) for Chinese citizens, and How Does It Work?

As of January 2024, Chinese citizens must request an eTA before traveling to Kenya. The ETA is a semi-automated internet mechanism for determining if visitors are eligible to enter Kenya. One applies for an eTA online and receives it online as well.

The Kenya eTA is an electronic travel authorization system for tourists, business travelers, and transit passengers, allowing them to apply before arriving in Kenya. It allows a single entry with a stay of up to 90 days. The application process is short and completely online. Approval typically takes 1–3 business days, and the approved ETA must be provided upon arrival in Kenya.

The Kenya eTA is mandatory for Chinese nationals planning to visit Kenya for the purposes of tourism, business, medical reasons, or to visit friends and relatives.

This Kenya eTA is typically issued within a short processing time, and travelers can even apply for an eTA well in advance of their trip.

However, it is recommended that travelers apply for an eTA ahead of time to ensure they have enough time.

For travel purposes other than short-term visits, Chinese citizens must apply through a Kenyan embassy or consulate in China.

Let’s Check Kenya eTA (previously the eVisa) Requirements for Chinese Citizens

A set of requirements is required, as with any eTA process. We recommend that you take your time and go through each item one at a time. To ensure a successful application process, it is critical to first gather the requirements and then proceed to the application form. You will only require the following items:

• Valid passport: Without a valid passport, you cannot apply for a Kenya eTA online. Furthermore, the passport must be valid for at least 6 months from the date of arrival in Kenya
• A scan of the information page of your passport: you'll need to upload it during the application process.
• A color passport-style photo of the Chinese applicants.
• Proof of accommodation, if applicable
• E-mail address: You will receive the approved Kenya eTA by email in PDF format at your email address

Once Chinese applicants have gathered the required documents mentioned above and met the Kenya eTA requirements for Chinese citizens, they are ready to take the next step and apply for a Kenya eTA online 

Check Kenya eTA requirements for Chinese citizens

How to Apply for a Kenya eTA for Chinese Citizens Online, Right From Your Home

Apply Kenya eTA for Chinese citizens online from anywhere in the world

The final step in obtaining a Kenya visa waiver f is filling out the online application. 

Chinese travelers can apply for a Kenya eTA online in 3 simple steps:

• Step 1: Fill out the Kenya eTA application form with essential information such as your complete name, birth date, nationality, and passport number. To minimize mistakes throughout the Kenya eTA application procedure, Chinese candidates should carefully examine the correctness of the information submitted.

• Step 2: Choose the payment method for the Kenya eTA fees and provide some additional documents as required

• Step 3: Using the system tab, check the Kenya eTA status, allowing Chinese citizens to track their application progress at any time. Chinese applicants will receive a Kenya eTA by email in a maximum of 03 business days.

It is recommended that applicants double-check all the information they have entered in their Kenya electronic travel authorization (ETA) application forms before submitting them to ensure that there are no typos, errors, or inconsistencies.

Mistakes and incorrect data can cause delays in the processing of the application or even the denial of a Kenyan electronic travel authorization (ETA). If this occurs, a new application must be created from the ground up.

Once the application is submitted, the system will process the applicant’s details. The process for applying for a Kenya is simple and fast, with eTA being released within one to three business days from the day of online application. However, most eTA are approved within 72 hours if all information provided is correct. 

Once approved, the Kenya eTA is sent to the traveler via email. It must then be downloaded and printed.

Everything About Kenya ETA (previously the eVisa) Fees and Services for Chinese Citizens

Various types of Kenya eTA are available, each with a different number of entries and a different stay time. 

Kenya eTA fee for Chinese citizens

• To obtain a Kenya eTA for Chinese citizens, you have to pay two kinds of fees, which are called the Kenya eTA service fee and the Kenya Government fee.

• More about how to make payment for Kenya eTA fees for Chinese citizens, and Kenya eTA services here.

Learn about Kenya eTA fees for Chinese citizens

To apply for a Kenya eTA online from China, you have to pay two (02) kinds of eTA Fees, which are called the Service Fee and the Government Fee. In addition, we recommend that you buy Kenya travel insurance. 

The Kenyan eTA government fee is the total amount paid by the applicant to the Kenyan Immigration Department for the processing of their electronic eTA. This fee will be required of all travelers who need to apply for a travel authorization.

The service fee is the amount that travelers have to pay in advance for the service during the Kenya eTA processing. The amount of money you will spend on your Kenya eTA services depends on the processing time option you decide when applying for a Kenya eTA online. We give three options for you:

• Normal: your eTA will be ready within 3 business days.
• Urgent: your eTA will be ready within 48 hours.
• Super Urgent: If you want to get your document asap, this is the best option. Your eTA application is processed within 24 business hours.

Payments of method: You will need a Credit/debit card, eTA card, American Express, MasterCard, PayPal, or Wire Transfer to our Cyprus bank account in order to pay for your Kenyan eTA fee.

Apply for the necessary Kenya visa for citizens of China at the Kenya embassy or consulate in China

Anyway, Chinese citizens can get most of the Kenyan eTA they need at the Kenyan embassy or consulate in China.

Embassy of the Republic of Kenya in Beijing, China

• Address: 4, Xi Liu Street, San Li Tun, Chaoyang District, Beijing

Kenya consulate/embassy office’s hours

• Morning: 09.00 - 12.30

• Afternoon: 13:30 - 16:00

Normally, the Kenyan consulates and embassies are open Monday to Friday.

Kenya Visa Requirements for China Citizens FAQs

Do Chineses Need A Visa For Kenya?

No, all Chinese citizens don't have a valid visa in order to enter Kenya lawfully. Kenya's government has stated that all worldwide residents will no longer require a visa. This is intended to increase tourism numbers by presenting Kenya as a desirable destination in the area. Various players and stakeholders welcomed the action, praising the government's brave decision.

The visa-free system went into force on January 1, 2024, however it also introduced the Electronic Traveller Authorization (eTA). The eTA mandates that all visitors to Kenya register for authorization at least three days before their flights enter the country. Those who want it immediately might choose for a premium service option to receive it sooner.

Fortunately, obtaining a Kenya ETA for Chinese citizens is quick and easy, taking less than an hour from start to end. Chinese passport holders can apply for their Kenyan ETA (electronic travel authorization) online, eliminating the need to stand in line at the local embassy, gather mountains of documentation, or meet with a visa officer.

Kenya ETA for Chinese citizens is a single-entry that grants Chinese citizens a stay of 90 consecutive days in Kenya.

When you arrive in Kenya, you must present the border control authorities your authorized eVisa. Furthermore, you must bring the passport you used to apply for the visa. The passport must be valid for at least six months from the date you enter Kenyan territory.

The eVisa is connected directly to your biometric passport. That is why it is critical that you travel with the same passport that you gave during the ETA application. If your passport expires before your visa, you will be required to apply for a new eVisa with a new valid and eligible passport.

How to Extend the Maximum Length of Stay in Kenya?

Tourist visas can be extended at an immigration office. Visa extensions are frequently granted on the spot, if applicants have all of the necessary papers.

Although visa extensions can be obtained through smaller immigration offices (such as Kisumu, Lamu, and Malindi), most applicants are routed to the two main offices in Nairobi (Nyayo House along Uhuru Highway) and Mombasa. However, the Nairobi office is regarded as the most efficient in terms of processing extensions.

Kenya visa extension requirements

Applicants for Kenya visa extensions must carry the following items:

• A copy of the biographical data page of your passport
• Original visa endorsement copy
• Proof of any outstanding permit/pass applications (where applicable)

Can I Apply for a Kenya eVisa Before Booking Accommodation?

Yes, you may apply for a Kenya eVisa before making your reservation. It is really advised that you do so, as it might take up to three working days for your visa to be approved. This will offer you a piece of mind that your visa is in order before you begin arranging flights and accommodations.

When applying for a Kenya eVisa, you must supply your passport information, contact information, and travel dates. You must also submit a current passport-sized picture and other additional information through email.

After submitting your application, you will get an email confirmation containing your visa information. After that, you may print your visa and show it to the immigration official at the port of entry.

Here are some of the advantages of applying for a Kenya eVisa ahead of time:

• You can be certain that your visa is in order before you fly.
• You can save time by not applying for a visa at the point of entry.
• If you do not have a visa, you can avoid being denied entrance into Kenya.

How much money should I take to Kenya?

The amount of money you should bring to Kenya will be determined by a variety of factors, including the length of your stay, the activities you want to partake in, and your own spending habits. Kenya, like any other destination, can accommodate both budget travelers and those wanting more luxurious experiences. 

Here are some factors to consider while deciding how much money to bring to Kenya:

• Accommodation: Accommodation costs can vary significantly depending on the type of accommodation you choose. Budget travelers can find affordable hostels or guesthouses, while luxury travelers may opt for high-end hotels or lodges. Estimate your accommodation costs based on your preferred level of comfort.
• Food and Dining: Food expenses can also vary. Street food and local eateries are generally more budget-friendly, while dining in upscale restaurants may cost more. Consider your dining preferences and budget accordingly.
• Transportation: Plan for transportation expenditures, such as domestic flights, local transit within cities, and any safari or tour charges.
• Activities and Sightseeing: Plan for expenses related to activities and sightseeing, such as park entrance fees for wildlife reserves, guided tours, and cultural experiences.
• Souvenirs and Miscellaneous: Allocate some money for souvenirs, gifts, and unforeseen expenses.
• Emergency Funds: It's always a good idea to have emergency funds available in case of unexpected situations.

When budgeting for your trip to Kenya, consider researching average prices for the items indicated above, then develop a daily budget based on your projected spending. It's also a good idea to have a mix of cash and credit/debit cards on hand for payment ease. While credit cards are frequently accepted in big cities and tourist regions, smaller communities and local marketplaces may prefer cash.

Finally, before your journey, verify the most recent exchange rates and learn about any travel warnings or other currency-related restrictions.

Why is Nairobi so famous?

Nairobi is well-known for being the only capital city with a national park. Because of its closeness to Nairobi National Park, the city has earned the moniker "Kenya's Safari Capital." Nairobi is famous for a number of reasons, including:

• It is the world's only capital city to have a national park. Nairobi National Park, just a few minutes from the city center, is home to a variety of species, including lions, elephants, and zebras.
• It's a popular safari location. Kenya has some of the greatest safaris in the world, and Nairobi is an excellent starting point for seeing the Masai Mara National Reserve, Amboseli National Park, and other wildlife locations.

Here are some other reasons why Nairobi is famous:

• It has the Karen Blixen Museum, which was the home of the Danish author who wrote "Out of Africa."
• It is a large house for the Giraffe Centre, which is a sanctuary for endangered Rothschild's giraffes.
• Own a Sheldrick Wildlife Trust, which is a rescue and rehabilitation center for orphaned elephants.

Nairobi is a vibrant and exciting city with something to offer everyone. Whether you are interested in wildlife, culture, or commerce, Nairobi is a great place to visit for Chinese citizens.

Our Commitment to Reliable Visa Information

At www.kenyaimmigration.org, we are committed to delivering information that is accurate, transparent, and dependable. Each piece of visa-related content published on our website undergoes careful review to maintain consistency and integrity.

We do not rely on unofficial or third-party materials. To ensure accuracy, all references are drawn from publicly available resources issued by official Kenyan government authorities.

Sources:

• Directorate of Immigration Services (Kenya): https://immigration.go.ke
• eCitizen Kenya Portal: https://www.ecitizen.go.ke
• Ministry of Foreign and Diaspora Affairs: https://www.mfa.go.ke

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