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To get an entry authorization to Kenya, you no longer apply for an eVisa Kenya. As of January 2024, Kenya officially replaced the eVisa system with a new, more inclusive Electronic Travel Authorization (eTA) platform available at etakenya.go.ke. This guide explains the difference between the eVisa and the new eTA, how to apply, fees, requirements, and what every traveler should know.
eTA Application Kenya
Here’s how to get entry authorization for Kenya under the new system:
- Visit the official portal: https://etakenya.go.ke
- Create an account and start a new application
- Upload passport bio-data page, passport photo, and other required documents
- Pay the $32.50 processing fee
- Wait for approval (typically 3–5 working days)
- Download your eTA approval letter and present it on arrival in Kenya
💡 Previously, visitors had to apply for eVisa Kenya. That system is now discontinued and replaced by eTA.
Want a step-by-step walk-through of the actual process? See this full guide on how to apply for a visa in Kenya.
📜 What Is eVisa Kenya (And Why It Was Retired)
eVisa Kenya was the digital visa application platform used before 2024. It allowed eligible nationalities to apply online for a Kenyan visa without visiting an embassy. However, the system had limitations — it excluded some travelers, was prone to fraud via fake sites, and lacked uniformity across categories.
As of 2024, the government introduced the eTA Kenya system to streamline approvals and extend eligibility to all foreign travelers except EAC citizens.
🔄 If you search for “evisa to Kenya” or “kenya evisa” today, many old URLs may still appear — but they redirect or inform users about the updated system.
🔍 eVisa Kenya vs. eTA Kenya: Key Differences
Here’s a side-by-side comparison between the retired eVisa Kenya and the new eTA Kenya:
| Feature | Old eVisa (Before 2024) | New eTA (From Jan 2024) |
|---|---|---|
| Full Name | Electronic Visa (eVisa Kenya) | Electronic Travel Authorization (eTA Kenya) |
| Who Applies | Select nationalities only | All non-Kenyan travelers (except EAC citizens) |
| Where to Apply | evisa.go.ke (Retired) | etakenya.go.ke (Working) |
| Fee | $50 + processing fees | $32.50 flat rate |
| Approval Time | 2–3 working days | 3–5 working days |
| Validity | 90 days from issue | 90 days from arrival |
| Document Received | PDF visa | PDF eTA approval letter |
| Status | Retired (No longer used) | Active in 2025 and beyond |
📂 Who Needs an eTA for Kenya?
Currently, eTA is mandatory for all foreign nationals except those from EAC (East African Community) countries. If you previously applied for an electronic visa Kenya, now you simply apply for an eTA regardless of your country of origin.
✅ Required for:
- Tourists
- Business travelers
- Family visitors
- Transit passengers
❌ Not required for:
- EAC citizens (e.g. Uganda, Tanzania, Rwanda)
- Holders of Kenyan residence permits
🦁 If you’re visiting for tourism, check out these fun places to visit in Nairobi.
📝 Requirements for eTA Kenya
To complete your eTA application, you’ll need:
- A valid passport (minimum 6 months before expiry)
- A clear scan of the bio-data page
- A recent passport-sized photo
- Travel details (flight booking, hotel booking or invitation letter)
- Payment method (Visa/MasterCard/PayPal)
🔒 eTA Kenya is secure, digital, and mobile-friendly — accessible on both phone and desktop.
💵 Kenya eTA Fees & Payment Method
As of now:
- Application Fee: $32.50 (non-refundable)
- Accepted Payments: Debit/Credit Card, PayPal
- No visa-on-arrival is offered anymore. You must get approval before departure.
If you see guides referencing “visa on arrival” or kenya evisa, they are likely outdated.
📌FAQs About eVisa & eTA Kenya
Is the eVisa to Kenya still available?
No. All visa applications are now processed through eTA at etakenya.go.ke.
What’s the difference between eVisa and eTA?
eVisa was limited to certain countries. eTA applies to all foreign travelers and replaces the eVisa Kenya system.
Can I still use the old eVisa site?
No. It redirects or informs you to apply via the new eTA platform.
✅ Final Thoughts
If you’re planning a visit to Kenya, don’t rely on outdated eVisa Kenya articles or embassy posts. The process has changed completely, and now every traveler (except East Africans) must apply for an eTA. It’s faster, cheaper, and more universal — but only if you use the correct, official portal.
Planning to explore Kenya after getting your eTA? Don’t miss these amazing getaway spots in Kajiado.
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