Planning a trip to Kenya? Indian citizens do not need a traditional visa. Instead, you must apply for a Kenya Electronic Travel Authorisation (eTA) before travelling. The application is 100% online and usually takes about 3 working days to process. This guide explains who needs an eTA, the required documents, fees, processing time, and how to apply.
Do Indian Citizens Need a Visa for Kenya?
No. Kenya no longer issues tourist visas to Indian travellers. Instead, you must get an approved eTA before boarding your flight. Without a valid eTA, you may not be allowed to board your flight.
Official Websites
- Kenya eTA Portal: https://www.etakenya.go.ke
- Kenya Immigration: https://immigration.go.ke/eta/
What is the Kenya eTA?
The Kenya Electronic Travel Authorisation (eTA) is an online travel permit issued by the Kenyan government. Although it replaces the old visa, an eTA is not a visa. It is a travel approval that allows you to travel to Kenya. The final decision to allow entry is made by immigration officers when you arrive.
For most tourists, the eTA is:
- Single-entry
- Valid for travel within 90 days of issue
- Used for tourism, business, family visits, and short trips
Kenya eTA Requirements for Indian Citizens
Required Documents
- Indian passport valid for at least 6 months
- Recent passport-size photo
- Scanned copy of your passport's photo page
- Flight itinerary
- Hotel booking or accommodation details
- Valid email address
- Phone number
- Debit or credit card for payment
Additional Documents (If Needed)
Depending on your trip, you may also need:
- Business invitation letter
- Conference invitation
- Medical appointment letter
- Invitation letter from your host
- Any other documents requested during the application
The standard Kenya eTA fee starts at USD 30. Additional payment or bank charges may apply. Since fees can change, always check the official Kenya eTA website before applying.
How to Apply for a Kenya eTA
Applying is simple and completely online.
Step 1: Visit the Official Website
Go to:
https://www.etakenya.go.ke
Apply only through the official website to avoid extra service charges.
Step 2: Fill in Your Details
Enter your:
- Personal details
- Passport information
- Travel dates
- Flight details
- Accommodation details
Make sure all the information matches your passport.
Step 3: Upload Your Documents
Upload clear copies of your:
- Passport
- Photograph
- Flight itinerary
- Hotel booking
- Any other required documents
Clear documents help avoid delays.
Step 4: Pay the Fee
Pay online using a debit card, credit card, or another accepted payment method.
Step 5: Wait for Approval
Most applications are approved within 3 working days.
The Kenyan government recommends applying at least 3 days before your trip. To be safe, apply about 1 week before you travel.
Step 6: Download Your eTA
After approval, your eTA will be sent to your email.
Before you travel:
- Download a digital copy
- Print a copy
- Carry it for check-in and immigration
Kenya eTA Processing Time
| Processing Stage | Time |
|---|---|
| Standard Processing | Around 3 working days |
| Minimum Time to Apply | At least 3 days before travel |
| Recommended | About 1 week before departure |
Your eTA is valid for travel within 90 days from the date it is issued. Once you arrive in Kenya, immigration officers decide how long you can stay. For most tourists, the stay is up to 90 days.
Yellow Fever Vaccination for Indian Travellers
If you're travelling to Kenya, it is recommended to get a Yellow Fever vaccination before your trip. According to the Government of India, travellers arriving in India from Kenya must carry a valid International Certificate of Vaccination or Prophylaxis (ICVP). Without it, you may be quarantined on arrival.
Important Points
- Get vaccinated at least 10 days before travel.
- Visit a Government-approved Yellow Fever Vaccination Centre.
- Carry your original International Certificate of Vaccination or Prophylaxis (ICVP) during your trip.
- The certificate becomes valid 10 days after vaccination and remains valid for life.
- Travellers arriving without a valid Yellow Fever vaccination certificate from a risk country may be subject to up to 6 days of quarantine, depending on the destination country's health regulations.
Essential Kenya Travel Tips
- Apply only through the official Kenya eTA website.
- Make sure your passport is valid for at least 6 months.
- Check your passport number, travel dates, and email address carefully before submitting your application.
- Carry both a digital and printed copy of your approved eTA.
- Check the latest health and vaccination requirements before you travel.
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