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Is ETA the same as a visa to Kenya?

No, the Electronic Travel Authorization (eTA) and a visa are not the same when it comes to traveling to Kenya. Although both are types of authorization that validate foreign nationals to enter Kenya, they are distinct in the way that they are issued, with the requirements and the target travel purpose. Since January 1, 2024, the eTA has replaced short-term visas for Kenya. However, since mid-2025, many African nationals (except from Libya and Somalia) and some other categories (e.g., EAC citizens, Kenya residents) are exempt from the eTA requirement. Most other travelers must still apply for an eTA. Here is a comparison of the key differences between an eTA and a traditional Kenyan visa:

1. What is an eTA?

An Electronic Travel Authorization (eTA) is a web-based entry authorization that lets visitors of eligible nations into Kenya on a brief stay, normally to visit tourist interests, conduct business, or seek medical attention. The purpose of creating the eTA system was to make the process of obtaining permission to visit Kenya more convenient and quicker.

The eTA allows its issuance to the citizens of some countries, who may obtain the eTA online without contacting the embassy or a consulate. It enables tourists to visit Kenya for up to 90 days (in most cases). However, for travelers who are eTA-exempt, entry is granted directly with a passport. For those who still need it, the eTA process is quicker than a traditional visa. The eTA is typically issued for tourism or business purposes, and there is an opportunity to apply and obtain approval in a few days.

2. What is a Visa?

Conversely, a visa is an official document issued by the embassy or consulate of a nation allowing a foreign visitor to enter, stay, and depart the country under particular circumstances. Unlike the eTA, a Kenyan visa may require an in-person application at a Kenyan consulate or embassy. Some types of visas, such as the eVisa, may be obtained online.

A Kenyan visa is typically the default requirement for travelers from countries not qualified to the eTA, and it can be issued as a tourist, business, student, or work visa. The visa processing period is usually more lengthy compared to the eTA, and the applications are more elaborate. Since January 2024, visas are no longer issued for short-term travel. They remain available only for long-term or special categories such as student, work, or residence visas.

3. Differences in Application Process

  • eTA: The eTA application is available online, and a visitor must complete a simple form on the Kenyan government web portal, with personal information, travel details, and a scan of his/her passport. The eTA application process is quick, typically taking only a few days. Once approved, travelers can print the authorization and present it at the Kenyan border
  • Visa: The traditional visa application process requires additional steps. Other documents you might be required to produce before the issuance of the visa, depending on the type of visa you are applying for, include: evidence of accommodation, travel plan, financial reports, and an invitation letter. A visa may require more time to process and may involve an in-person interview at a Kenyan embassy.

4. Eligibility

  • eTA: The eTA is required for most foreign nationals, but from mid-2025, citizens of most African countries (except Libya and Somalia), EAC nationals, and certain other groups are exempt. For all others, the eTA remains mandatory.
  • Visa: A visa is required for nationals who are ineligible for the eTA or individuals needing longer-term stays or specific visa types, such as student, work, or resident visas

5. Validity and Duration of Stay

  • eTA: The eTA is typically valid for stays of up to 90 days. It is the one usually allocated to short-term visits.
  • Visa: The stay may be longer depending on the type of visa issued, and may be used for diverse reasons (tourism, business, study, among others).

Conclusion

The Kenya eTA is not the same as a traditional visa. From January 1, 2024, it became the standard requirement for short-term foreign travelers. Since mid-2025, exemptions apply to most African citizens (except Libya and Somalia) and some other categories, while for the rest of the world it remains mandatory. While it does not replace long-term or special-category visas, it functions as the standard authorization for short stays. In short, think of the eTA as Kenya’s modern, digital replacement for short-term visas—simpler, faster, and more convenient, but still essential for your journey.

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