Kenya is one of Africa's most sought-after destinations. Its distinct cuisine, geographical diversity, and cultural richness make it one of the most exciting places to visit on the planet. If Thai travelers plan to visit Kenya, they must obtain an approved Electronic Travel Authorization (eTA) before traveling.
The Kenyan authorities have recently changed the entry requirements. Previously, you would have needed to apply for an e-visa before arriving. They have since replaced this with an ETA, which must still be requested before entering the country.
As of 1 January 2024, foreign nationals can enter Kenya without a traditional visa for tourism or business purposes, provided they obtain an approved eTA.
Thai citizens can apply for a Kenya eTA online, and the application can usually be completed within a short time.
Discover how to apply online in a matter of minutes below.
1. Kenya eTA for Thai citizens: Latest updates
As of January 2024, Kenya has transitioned from a visa system to an electronic Travel Authorization (eTA). There is no visa on arrival for any nationality.
The Kenya Electronic Travel Authorization (eTA) has replaced the previous eVisa system. Under the current system, travelers apply for a single Kenya eTA rather than multiple visa categories. The eTA application procedure is easier, quicker, and more cost-effective than the traditional visa application method.
Thai passport holders planning to visit Kenya for reasons of tourism, business, medical reasons, or to visit friends or relatives can apply for a Kenya eTA.
This new digital system enables Thai citizens to pre-register for a simple Kenya eTA online application to receive an approved eTA via email.
Filling out basic travel information, passport data, and personal information on the Kenya eTA application takes only a few minutes. Before submitting the Kenya eTA application, you must check the accuracy of the information.
An e-Visa may be issued as a Kenya business visa, tourist visa, transit visa, or East Africa visa to travel to an onward destination.
- Kenya tourist e-visa: The Tourist e-Visa is an excellent option for Thai visitors who wish to stay in Kenya for an extended period. You can relax, visit friends and family in Kenya, or enjoy the food and culture of this amazing country with the Tourist e-Visa. You'll have plenty of time to explore Kenya once you arrive. The Tourist e-Visa must be used within 90 days of receiving it, and it only allows for one entry into Kenya. With this type of e-visa, you can stay in Kenya for up to 90 days from the date of your arrival.
- Kenya transit e-visa: Are you planning a lengthy layover in Kenya? If you only have two or three days in Kenya before continuing to your next destination, the Transit e-Visa is an excellent choice. Thai citizens can stay in Kenya for up to 72 hours before their flight departs. While you "wait," explore Kenya's local cuisine, culture, and nightlife.
- Kenya business e-visa: The Kenya Business e-Visa is available to Thai citizens traveling to the Republic of Kenya for business-related activities. The electronic visa is valid for a maximum of 90 days from the date, and it allows a single entry to Kenya with a stay of 90 days from the arrival date.
- Kenya East Africa e-visa: If you want to dive into the travel experience, you need the East Africa e-Visa. With the East Africa e-Visa, you can spend 90 days in Kenya, Rwanda, and Uganda, coming and going as you please.
Thai citizens who wish to stay longer than 90 days or for purposes not covered by the eTA should contact the Kenyan embassy for guidance.
2. Kenya eTA ( previously the eVisa) requirements for Thai citizens:
Before travelers from Thailand can start their online application, it is important to learn the Kenya ETA requirements for Thai citizens
They include having and complying with the following:
- A valid passport — To travel to Kenya, you must have a current passport. Check that the valid for at least 6 months from the date of arrival
- A current passport photograph — Scan a copy of your passport photo and include it with your application.
- Email address — This is where we'll send your eTA once we've verified your information. When you receive your eTA, you can use it immediately or print a copy to keep with you.
- Proof of onward or return travel may be required, depending on the declared purpose of travel. The Republic of Kenya would like to know when and where you would land in Kenya. If you want to apply for a Kenya East Africa visa, your entry point needs to be a port in Kenya. In case of a transit visa, your flight ticket will be used as a verification that your layover time will not exceed 72 hours.
- Your business documents: you need to add an invitation letter from your partner in Kenya, a company COI, and your staff ID/business card to your document list if you want to apply for a Kenya business visa
- Proof of onward travel (for East Africa and Transit visa): You need to provide all your tickets to verify the entry point and landing/leaving time.
All information and documents are digitally uploaded. Thai citizens are not required to present documentation in person at the embassy.
3. How to apply for a Kenya eTA online from Thailand:
The final step to obtaining a Kenyan eTA is to fill out the online application. It takes just a few minutes to fill out the Kenya eTA application form for Thai citizens
Citizens of Thailand can apply for a Kenya eTA online in three steps.
- Step 1: Complete the Kenya eTA application form
- Step 2: Pay the Kenya eTA processing fee
- Step 3: Download and print out the Kenya eTA
Read more: How to get a Kenya online eTA
Processing usually takes between 24 and 72 business hours. After that, Thai citizens will receive an email containing the travel document in PDF format. It is usually recommended to print out a copy of the Kenya eTA so that Thai nationals can keep it with them throughout their trip.
Thai eTA applicants must submit their applications in advance for the eTA to be processed on time and to avoid any complications that may arise before the scheduled departure date.
4. Kenya ETA ( previously the eVisa) Fee for Thai citizens :
The Kenya ETA depends on the processing time you choose. The Kenya eTA fees include the service fee and the Kenya Government fee.
We offer 03 processing options at kenyaimmigration.org, each with a faster processing time. Keep in mind the following prices to get a better idea of the cost:
- Normal: Even though this is the slowest option, it’s also the cheapest. Your application is ready in 72 hours.
- Urgent: this one moves a bit faster. You receive your Kenya eTA within 48 hours.
- Super urgent: This option will help you receive the approved eTA in just 24 business hours at a fairly reasonable price.
Payment method: to complete your payment, you need an electronic funds transfer (Visa, Mastercard, American Express)
In addition, we also provide other service packages to help customers have a safe and time-saving trip when coming to Kenya, including Kenya travel insurance, Kenya travel Sim, and Car Pick-up service in Kenya.
Kenya Visa Requirements for Thailand Citizens FAQs
Where can I change the currency in Kenya?
Where can I change the currency in Kenya is always one of the questions that tourists ask the most. when you travel to Kenya.
There are many places where you can change currency in Kenya, including:
- Banks: In Kenya, most banks provide currency exchange services. Bank exchange rates, however, are not always the most advantageous, and there can be charges involved.
- Forex bureaus: Specialized companies called forex bureaus provide currency exchange services. Banks seldom provide better exchange rates than do forex bureaus, and they frequently don't impose fees.
- Hotels: Kenya has many hotels that provide currency exchange services. There may be expenses connected with converting money at hotels, and the exchange rates there are not always the best.
- Airports: Kenyan airports have currency exchange facilities, however, the prices are sometimes not the best.
It is essential to examine exchange rates at many bureaus before exchanging your money if you are seeking the best prices. Here are some tips for changing currency in Kenya:
- Familiarize yourself with mid-market prices before traveling: The mid-market rate represents the real exchange rate, free of any deceptive extra charges. Make sure you obtain a fair rate when you buy your travel money by using an online currency converter before your trip to get a sense of what your money is worth.
- Avoid exchanging currency in Kenya at airports or hotels: Paying in your own currency at ATMs is a tricky trick that causes many travelers to pay more than they need to. Always choose to pay in the local currency (in this case, shillings) to keep costs down and get the best price.
How can Thai citizens travel to Kenya on a budget?
Although Kenya is not typically thought of as an expensive destination, expenditures are slightly higher than in other African nations due to the country's more developed tourist sector. Prices might mount expensive if you have a long trip planned, especially if you intend to go on a safari. Although luxury lodges have come to represent the safari experience, there are many more options as well, including camping, choosing midrange lodging, staying with a local community, and traveling off-peak
Here are some tips on how Thai citizens can travel to Kenya on a budget:
- Make reservations for your travel and lodging in advance. This will enable you to obtain the greatest offers.
- Travel while it's not peak season. In Kenya, the shoulder season lasts from May until October. Flights and lodging will be less expensive during this period.
- Stay at guesthouses or hostels. A wonderful strategy to cut costs on lodging is to stay in hostels and guesthouses.
- Make your own food. Eating out may be expensive in Kenya, but making your own meals at home is a wonderful way to save money.
- Use the free activities available. In Kenya, there are many free things to do like hiking, swimming, and visiting national parks.
- Take the bus or train. In Kenya, public transportation is quite inexpensive.
Here are some additional tips for budget travel in Kenya:
- Eat at a local restaurant. You should avoid eating in tourist locations because the food there tends to be more expensive. Instead, eat at local restaurants where you can enjoy authentic Kenyan food at cheap prices. You can see more Best Restaurants In Kenya For Food Lovers
- Shop at local markets. If you want to shop for essential items or souvenirs, the local market is a great place
- Bargain about price. Haggling is common in Kenya, so don't be afraid to bargain with the seller to get a better price.
- Be prepared to spend money on activities. While there are many free activities to enjoy in Kenya, there are also many paid activities, such as safaris and national park entrance fees.
Here are some specific budget-friendly activities that Thai citizens can enjoy in Kenya:
- The Masai Mara National Reserve should be visited. It is a famous tourist destination in Kenya, and it is home to a diverse assortment of animals, including lions, elephants, and rhinoceros. There are several inexpensive ways to see the Maasai Mara, including taking a shared safari or camping in the area.
- Explore the Lamu Archipelago. The Lamu Archipelago is a series of islands off Kenya's coast. These islands are well-known for their lovely beaches, clean seas, and tranquil ambiance. Staying at a hotel or hostel, dining at a local restaurant, and swimming in the sea are all inexpensive ways to enjoy the Lamu Archipelago.
- Visit Kenya's National Museums. The National Museum of Kenya, located in Nairobi, is an excellent venue to learn about Kenyan culture and history. Kenyans can visit the museum for free.
Is it safe to visit Kisumu?
Yes. Kisumu, a city on the shores of Lake Victoria in western Kenya,
It is one of the safest cities in Kenya. Like many other cities worldwide, when in Kisumu, be cautious of your surroundings and take precautions to reduce danger.
Here are some safety tips for visiting Kenya to help you stay on top of things. These tips are helpful in any new place you visit.
- Don’t travel at night: There are risks in remote and unfamiliar areas, especially at night.
- If you are traveling with a tour guide, follow their instructions: the tour guide has extensive experience with the location and the rules of the area.
- Keep a low profile: No need to attract unnecessary attention from everyone.
- Do not attend political demonstrations: Demonstrations can become violent and be broken up by police or the military.
- Keep valuables out of sight.
- Don't trust people too much: If something feels like a scam, it probably is.
- Stay away from any black market trade in wildlife items: the laws are strict and you will get caught. Love and respect animals and their homes.
- Make a copy of your passport and keep it in your luggage: having a copy is never a bad idea. Keep a photo on your phone.
Does a Thai citizen need a visa for Kenya?
No! Thai citizens don’t need a Kenya Visa to travel to the country. All Thai citizens can now visit Kenya without a visa for tourist or business travel for stays up to 90 days, starting January 1, 2024.
The Kenya ETA for Thai citizens is only valid for one trip, and travelers must obtain a new ETA for each visit to Kenya.
Here's a step-by-step guide to help you get your Kenya eTA quickly:
Step 1: You must fill out the Kenya ETA application form with your personal information, as well as the relevant papers and trip information. Examine all of your application information thoroughly. But don't worry, we have a streamlined application form that is easy to complete.
Step 2: Once completed, you may pay for our services using a credit/debit card or PayPal.
Step 3: After making the payment, attach the remaining documents and click "Submit."
Step 4: Wait for your Kenya ETA to be processed, then be ready to go!
You will be notified by email when your ETA is available. Make a copy of your processed visa to carry to the airport and preserve it on an electronic device.
Benefits of getting the Kenya ETA with Kenya Immigration Services:
- Application 100% Government Compliant: Our staff will analyze each of the answers you provide on the form and alter them to be 100% government-compatible.
- Simplified Form: Unlike the Embassy website, where you must answer difficult and time-consuming inquiries, we require you to complete a streamlined form with straightforward questions. It will be similar to completing a brief survey.
- Fill out the form at your own pace: Unlike the embassy website, which disconnects you from their website every time you take a break, our platform allows you to fill out the form at your own pace, make changes anytime you want, and store your work so you don't have to start from scratch.
- Our values are your safety: That is why we have a strong security system in place to safeguard your personal information. We propose that you read what our previous clients have written about our services in our reviews area. We are confident you will enjoy them.
- Customer support: Your website may offer customer support to assist applicants with any questions or issues they encounter during the application process.
What is the most famous park in Kenya?
The most famous park in Kenya is the Masai Mara National Reserve. It is located in the southwestern part of the country and is known for its incredible wildlife and stunning scenery. The park is home to a wide variety of animals, including lions, leopards, elephants, cheetahs, rhinos, and zebras. It is also a popular destination for birdwatching, as over 450 species of birds have been recorded in the park.
The Masai Mara is most famous for its yearly wildebeest migration. Every year, millions of wildebeest, zebra, and gazelle migrate from Tanzania's Serengeti National Park to Kenya's Masai Mara in search of new grazing grounds. The migration is a genuinely breathtaking display, and it is one of the major reasons why people go to the Masai Mara.
Aside from animals, the Masai Mara is home to a number of Maasai settlements. The Maasai are a semi-nomadic tribe that have been living in the area for millennia. Visiting Maasai communities allows visitors to learn about Maasai culture and traditions.
The Masai Mara is a genuinely one-of-a-kind and remarkable area. Anyone interested in animals, the outdoors, or African culture must go once in life.
Can you get a Kenya eTA at the airport?
No, you can get Kenya's ETA at the airport. As of January 2024, Kenya has transitioned from a visa system to an electronic travel authorization (eTA). All nationals enjoy "no visa on arrival".
Kenya eTA, also known as Electronic Travel Authorization, has replaced the traditional visa application process.
Citizens of most nations who travel to Kenya for tourism, business, or transit can apply for a Kenya ETA. The application procedure is straightforward and fast, and it can be completed at any time and from any location all over the world.
Kenya visas for Thai citizens are valid for stays of up to 90 days for tourism and business purposes. A transit visa for Kenya is also available. The transit ETA allows for a maximum stay of three days before continuing to an onward destination.
There are 3 different types of Kenya short-stay visas for Thai citizens:
- Kenya ETA tourist
- Kenya ETA Business
- Kenya ETA Transit
The Kenya ETA for Thai citizens is not valid for residency or employment visas. Thai citizens seeking to reside and work in Kenya must apply at a Kenyan Embassy or Consulate in Thailand.
Holders with Thai diplomatic, official, or service passports do not require a visa to enter Kenya.
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.
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