Kenya eVisa/ETA for US Citizens – Requirements & Fees

Every traveler enjoys visiting new places with a variety of cultures to learn about, beautiful landscapes to see, and leisure activities to participate in. Africa offers a wide range of unique travel experiences because ancestral cultures coexist with paradisiacal beaches, high and cold mountains, large savannas full of exotic animals such as lions and giraffes, jungles, and modern cities.

Few nations offer as many appealing travel options as Kenya.

Kenya ETA for US Citizens – How to Apply from the United States

This is because experiences such as witnessing the Great Migration in the Masai Mara, taking the Lunatic Express train through the bush journeying from Nairobi to Mombasa, dancing on the paradisiacal beaches, or simply learning about their culture may become a dream holiday.

Every year, many Americans choose Kenya as their vacation destination to enjoy unique and thrilling experiences.

But, as every seasoned traveler knows, not everything is as straightforward as it appears. This is because certain countries, such as Kenya, require an eTA for entry.

If you plan to visit Kenya, you must apply for an eTA before entering the country.

Obtaining a Kenya ETA from the US was once a time-consuming process that turned off many eager travelers who wished to see the vast African savannas.

Read this article to learn more about the Kenya eTA requirements for US citizens

Do US citizens need a visa for Kenya?

US citizens do not need a traditional visa, but they must apply for a Kenya ETA before traveling.

US nationals planning a trip to Kenya must apply for a Kenya ETA before traveling. This electronic permit has replaced the conventional Kenya eVisa and is now a required document for all visitors, including those from the United States, before they enter the country.

The Kenya ETA system benefits tourists by simplifying and speeding up the entrance procedure into Kenya. Beyond convenience, the ETA system helps the Kenyan government ensure the safety and security of both tourists and locals.

We have an in-depth knowledge of the Electronic Travel Authority (ETA) application process and can help you avoid common mistakes that can lead to visa refusal. We recommend that you apply for your Kenya ETA as soon as you have confirmed your flights and accommodation to avoid any unforeseen delays. You can apply for an ETA up to three months before your travel date.

What is a Kenya ETA ( Visa Waiver ) for US citizens?

In December 2023, Kenya made history when it announced it would be the first African country to make visa-free travel for all travelers. “No one from any corner of the globe will anymore have to bear the burden of traveling to Kenya to apply for a visa,” Kenyan President William Ruto declared at an event on Kenya’s Independence Day on December 12.

From January 2024, American travelers must request an ETA before departing for Kenya. ETA is a semi-automated online system used to determine whether a traveler is eligible to enter Kenya. 

A Kenya ETA, or Electronic Travel Authorization (previously the eVisa) is a mandatory document for travelers entering Kenya. It is a type of official clearance to enter Kenya. Most travelers, including tourists, business visitors, and even short-term students, require an eTA before arriving in Kenya.

The eTA allows for a maximum stay of 90 days in Kenya. Once in Kenya, you can extend your vacation for an additional 90 days.

The Kenya electronic visa, also known as the Kenya ETA, is valid for entry to Kenya for 90 days from the date of issue.

The Kenya visa waiver for US citizens permits a single entry. For multiple trips to Kenya, simply reapply online.

Let’s Check Kenya E-Visa / ETA Requirements For US Citizens

Kenya's ETA requirements for US citizens are a common issue that is interesting when Americans travel to Kenya. The Kenyan government requires an eTA for the majority of nationalities in the world, and U.S. citizens are not an exception.

Basic required documents are necessary for the Kenyan government to approve the Kenya eTA for US citizens, including:

• A passport valid for at least six months with at least one blank page.
• a passport photo of the applicant.

In addition, based on the type of visa you apply for, there are some extra documents that you need to attach to the application form. These are listed below:

• For applicants who want to visit family: Invitation Letters from family,  Alien card/ Identity card/ Passport/ Entry permit of the host, and return air ticket. 
• For applicants who want to travel to Kenya: travel itinerary, Hotel bookings, and return flight ticket.
• For applicants who want to go for business: Invitation Letters of the company or an Invitation letter for business visits, Copies of registration of the company, and a return flight ticket.

Actually, besides the Kenya visa online for US citizens, the hotel bookings and return flight tickets are almost a “must have” thing for Americans, and also for any travellers traveling to Kenya. So to be advantageous, you should prepare all of it before you enter Kenya. 

If you are more careful, you could buy travel insurance (including Covid-19 treatment expenses). 

With these documents, your eTA application will be approved quickly by the government. You can apply with us to get comprehensive support for your Kenya trip.

Check Kenya eTA requirements for US citizens

Need To Know All Types Of Kenya visa for US Citizens Currently Available

Currently, there are two types of Kenya visas available to US citizens, depending on the purpose of the visit.

• Kenya Tourist visa

Although the visa is only authorized for one entrance, it is good for 90 days. The application can be filed for a visa well in advance of the departure date, but the visa will not be sent to the applicant until 30 days before the departure date. All applications submitted will be held until the applicant has 30 days to depart.

• Kenya Business visa

Kenyan Business visa permits a variety of foreign nationals to enter the country for business purposes. It is a single-entry travel document that allows visitors to stay in the nation for thirty days, with the possibility of renewing their visa twice. The application for this sort of visa is entirely online. Visa extensions of up to 90 days are available to eligible nations.

How to apply for a Kenya visa online from the US

Conveniently, the Kenyan government recently allowed travellers to apply for a Kenya eTA online, called eTA. While some countries are not eligible to apply for it, US nationality holders could apply for an eTA easily in just a few simple steps. 

There are many activities that US citizens can do during the period of time staying in Kenya with a Kenya eTA. It could be visiting your family and relatives or traveling for tourism with a group, doing business or investment activities, or connecting to other destinations through this country.

After choosing the type of eTA that is suitable for you, US citizens can easily apply for a Kenya eTA on our website with the advice and support from experts.

Apply for a Kenya eTA for US citizens online

Apply Kenya visa waiver for US citizens by following these steps

• Step 1: Complete the Kenya eTA application form with your basic information, including your full name, date of birth, nationality, and passport number. US applicants should carefully check the accuracy of the information provided to avoid errors during the Kenya eTA application process.

• 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, which allows US citizens to track the status of their Kenya eTA application process at any time. US applicants will receive a Kenya eTA by email in a maximum of 03 business days.

US citizens should download and print their Kenya eTA. Then bring your Kenya eTA with you to show the Kenya immigration officers upon arrival.

Learn More About Kenya ETA Fees and Services for US Citizens

Not only for US citizens but for all foreign travelers, the Kenya ETA fee is divided into two types: government fees and service fees. Travelers can choose from three processing options based on how quickly they need their ETA approved.

• Normal processing is suitable for travelers who plan and would like to receive their Kenya ETA within 03 business days. This option is ideal for standard travel plans and offers a cost-effective solution.
• Urgent processing is designed for travelers who need faster approval. With this option, US citizens can receive their Kenya ETA within 48 hours, making it suitable for last-minute trip preparations.
• Super Urgent processing is the fastest option available. It is intended for emergency or very short-notice travel, allowing applicants to obtain their Kenya ETA within 24 hours.

In addition, Kenya Immigration Services currently also provides other package services to assist US citizens while traveling to Kenya, such as Kenya travel insurance, Car pick-up service in Kenya, and Kenya eSim.

Learn more about Kenya ETA fees for US citizens

Important Notes for US Citizens Applying for a Kenya ETA

• US passports must be valid for at least six (6) months to enter Kenya.
• Please note that US citizens must download and print their Kenya ETA and present it to Kenyan immigration officers upon arrival.

Kenya Visa Requirements for United States of America Citizens FAQs

How much is a visa for Kenya for US citizens?

US citizens must pay two types of visa fee in order to obtain a visa to Kenya, including the Government Fee and Service charge.

The Government Fee is the amount that US applicants must pay for the Kenya Immigration Department to process their application. It is determined by the types of visa US citizens want to apply for. The table below shows the Government fee that US nationals need to pay for each type of visa:

Kenya Visa Types	Government & admin fee
Kenya East Africa Visa (Multiple entries for 90 days)	US$ 150.00
Kenya Tourist Visa (Single entry for 90 days)	US$ 95.00
Kenya Business Visa (Single entry for 90 days)	US$ 95.00
Kenya Transit Visa	US$ 65.00

The Visa Service Fee for US citizens is $59.00. However, it may go up if US applicants select Urgent or Super Urgent service. The faster they want to receive their visa, the higher fee they need to pay. Currently, Kenya Immigration Services provides 03 sorts of processing time for a visa application:

• Standard: US applicants can receive their visa within 03 business days. For only $59.00, US nationals can use this service.
• Urgent: US applicants need to pay additionally $79.00 if they want to obtain their visa within 24 hours.
• Super Urgent: This service allows US citizens to receive their visa within 05 hours with a fee of an extra $99.00.

 

Do US citizens need a visa for Kenya?

Yes. Because the US is exempted from the Kenya visa, US citizens must obtain an ETA to enter Kenya. Fortunately, Americans now can use an electronic travel authorization to visit Kenya for such purposes as business, tourism, or transit.

The Directorate of Immigration Services has launched the ETA to simplify obtaining an ETA to Kenya. American visitors can get the Kenya ETA online on Kenya Immigration Services website 

The Kenya ETA for US citizens is valid for 90 days from the issued date. There are 03 types of Kenya ETA:

• Tourist ETA: With this type of ETA, US citizens can remain in the country for 90 days from the arrival date.

• Transit ETA: This single-entry ETA allows American nationals to transit through Kenya and have a short trip of fewer than 03 days.

• Business ETA: US nationals are allowed to enter the country once and stay in Kenya within 90 days from the date of entry.

Is Kenya safe for US citizens?

Yes. Kenya is among the safest countries for US citizens to visit. Its well-known tourist attractions and amiable people will make your trip more enjoyable.

Safari tours in Kenyan national parks are worth a try if US citizens visit this fascinating country.

US travelers can see numerous wild animals such as herds of zebras, wildebeests, buffaloes, giraffes, lions, and elephants. In addition, Kenya is also famous for gorgeous beaches where tourists can chill out and join in some water sports.

Kenya Immigration Services provides US citizens with some safety tips for traveling to Kenya:

• Make sure that you obtain a valid Kenya visa before departing. You just need to spend a few minutes applying for a Kenya visa online and receive your visa in a maximum of 03 business days.
• US nationals are recommended to purchase travel insurance to travel to Kenya. It both helps your visa application be approved by the Government easier and covers the costs of medical problems should things go wrong while you are in Kenya.
• Once you arrive in Kenya, you can make use of the airport transfer service to reach your destination in the country.
• As a traveler, feel free to bargain when shopping in Kenya. It’s okay to ask for a lower price of an item before purchasing. When bargaining, a sense of humor is the key.

 

Can US citizens travel to Kenya?

Yes. For US citizens, Kenya is a top-rated destination for their vacation. The country is famous for Diani Beach where US nationals can immerse themselves in the crystal clear waters and numerous national parks with stunning sprawling savannahs and plenty of wildlife.

In August 2020, the Kenya Government reopened its border to international tourists, allowing citizens of almost all countries, including US visitors to enter the country. Before reaching Kenya, Americans should know that they must have a valid visa. Fortunately, the US is on the eligible list of Kenya ETA , so US citizens can apply for a visa to Kenya online from anywhere at any time.

US citizens who require an ETA to Kenya for tourism-related purposes can choose Kenya tourist ETA. With Kenya ETA, US visitors are allowed to stay in Kenya for up to 90 days from the arrival date.

To successfully apply for a Kenya ETA, US nationals must prepare some important documents such as:

• A passport that is valid for at least 06 months from the intended date of arrival in Kenya, with a minimum of 02 blank pages for verification.
• A photograph of the applicant.
• A flight ticket.

 

How long does it take to get a visa to Kenya from USA

Kenya eVisa has been launched to make the process of getting a visa to Kenya easier and quicker. American citizens now can apply for a Kenya eVisa on the Kenya Immigration Services website and receive the result in a maximum of 03 business days. This way is more convenient because it eliminates the need to visit the Kenyan Embassy or Consulate to obtain a visa.

While applying for a Kenya eVisa from the USA, travelers have to choose the processing time of their visa application. Currently, Kenya Immigration Services provides customers with 03 options of processing time, including:

• Normal: If US visa applicants choose this option, they can receive their visa within 03 business days.
• Urgent: This choice is suitable for US nationals who want to obtain a Kenya visa faster. Within 24 hours, the visa is issued to US citizens.
• Super Urgent: In case Americans need their Kenya e-visa as fast as possible, they are recommended to select this option. Their visa application is processed within just 05 business hours.

Once the visa is granted, it will be sent to the applicant's email address that is provided in the application form.

How long can Americans stay in Kenya on an E-Visa?

The duration of stay in Kenya for US citizens on a valid visa is the common concern for many US visitors.

Firstly, a Kenya eVisa for US citizens is valid for 03 months from the issued date, with a single entry into the country. This means that the visa holders must enter Kenya within 03 months of receiving the approved permit. The length of stay in Kenya, on the other hand, is determined by the type of visa that Americans use.

US citizens can engage in a wide range of activities using a Kenya e-visa. You may travel here to visit your friends and family, go on vacation, enjoy the landscapes in Kenya, do business, or make investments.

• A tourist eVisa and a Business eVisa both allow you to remain in Kenya for up to 90 days from the date of arrival
• A transit eVisa: You can use this visa to transit through Kenya and have a short trip in the country for 03 days.
• East Africa eVisa: This type of visa is granted to US citizens who want to travel to Kenya, Rwanda, and Uganda on a trip, with Kenya being the first stop. It permits a total stay of up to 90 days in three countries.

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

Verified Source