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✅ What Are the Requirements for Kenya Visa?
To travel to Kenya, all foreign visitors (including children) must apply for an electronic Travel Authorisation (eTA) online before arrival. The requirements for Kenya visa include a valid passport, a recent passport photo, travel details (such as hotel and flight booking), and payment of a non-refundable fee. Visitors no longer receive visas on arrival, and the former eVisa system has been retired.
👉Read more on Kenya Entry Visa on Arrival, and learn why it is no longer available.
🧳 What Are the Key Kenya Visa (eTA) Requirements?
To apply for a Kenya eTA, you’ll need the following documents:
✅ 1. A Valid Passport
- Must be valid for at least 6 months from date of arrival.
- Should have at least 1 blank page for stamping.
- Children must have individual passports — no group entries allowed.
✅ 2. Passport-Sized Photo
- Clear, recent color photo (taken within last 6 months).
- No headwear or filters.
- Must be in JPEG or PNG format.
✅ 3. Travel Details
- Return flight ticket or itinerary.
- Proof of accommodation (hotel reservation, invitation letter, etc.).
- If transiting, provide evidence of onward journey.
✅ 4. Payment
- Non-refundable fee paid online via credit/debit card.
- Fee varies based on country of origin.
✅ 5. Supporting Documents (for some applicants)
Depending on the purpose of your visit, you may need:
- Invitation letter from host in Kenya.
- Business registration for work-related trips.
- Consent letter from guardian (for minors).
🌍 Who Needs a Visa or eTA to Enter Kenya?
Everyone entering Kenya requires an eTA, except citizens of the visa-exempt countries:
✅ You can view the full list of visa-exempt countries and eTA-eligible countries on the official Kenya ETA Portal.
👉📄✈️If you’re unsure about the transition from eVisa to eTA, read this guide explaining their differences and fees.
👶 Do Children Need a Visa or eTA to Enter Kenya?
Yes — children, including infants, must have their own individual eTA.
✅ Kenya eTA Requirements for Children – Quick Checklist
| Requirement | Applies to Children? | Notes |
|---|---|---|
| 🎫 eTA Required | ✅ Yes | Each child needs their own eTA |
| 📄 Passport | ✅ Yes | Must be valid for at least 6 months |
| 🖼️ Passport Photo | ✅ Yes | Must be recent (within 6 months) |
| ✈️ Travel Details | ✅ Yes | Flight itinerary & accommodation info |
| 👩👧 Parent/Guardian Info | ✅ Yes | Required if applying on their behalf |
| 💳 Payment | ✅ Yes | Paid during online application |
💡 Tip: Submit the child’s eTA application at least 3 days before travel to avoid delays.
📝 How to Fill the Kenya Visa Application Form on eCitizen
Filling the Kenya visa application form is a simple process done entirely online through the official eCitizen portal. Here’s what you need to know before you begin:
✅ What You’ll Need:
- A clear passport photo (white background, less than 6 months old)
- A scanned bio-data page of your passport (PDF or JPG)
- Travel details (flight, entry point, travel dates)
- Accommodation booking or invitation letter (for some visa types)
- Valid email address and payment method (card or mobile money)
🖥️ Step-by-Step Summary:
- Visit eCitizen and sign in or create an account.
- Select Department of Immigration Services → Visa Application.
- Choose your visa type (e.g. Single Entry, East Africa Tourist Visa).
- Fill in personal details, passport info, and upload the required documents.
- Review your form carefully before submitting and paying.
- Wait for an approval email — usually within 2–5 working days.
💡 Tip: Complete the form in one sitting. eCitizen times out if you’re inactive for too long.
❓ Kenya eTA for Children – FAQs
Do children under 16 need to apply for an eTA?
✅ Yes. All travelers regardless of age — including infants and children — must apply for and receive an eTA before traveling to Kenya.
Can parents apply for their child’s eTA?
✅ Yes. A parent or legal guardian can submit the eTA application on behalf of their child.
Are there any exemptions for children?
❌ No. There are currently no age-based exemptions for eTA under Kenya’s immigration policies. Requirements for visa application in Kenya cut across all the ages.
Do children need separate passports to apply?
✅ Yes. Each child must have their own passport valid for at least 6 months beyond the intended stay.
What happens if I arrive in Kenya without an eTA for my child?
⚠️ Entry may be denied. All travelers must present a valid eTA — including children — before boarding or entering Kenya.
📅 When to Apply for the Kenya eTA
Apply at least 72 hours (3 days) before your departure to avoid delays. You can apply up to 3 months in advance.
✍️ Final Tips for a Smooth Entry
- ✅ Double-check passport expiry dates.
- ✅ Prepare all supporting documents before applying.
- ✅ Use the official Kenya eTA portal to avoid scams: www.etakenya.go.ke
- ❌ Don’t rely on old info — eVisa and visa on arrival are now phased out.
📌Once your visa is sorted, why not explore hidden gems in Kajiado? This guide covers top getaway spots worth visiting in Kajiado.
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