Kenya eTA For US Citizens: Cost, Documents And How To Apply (2026)
Planning a safari in the Maasai Mara or a beach week in Diani? Before you fly to Kenya, you need an approved Electronic Travel Authorisation (eTA). Kenya replaced its visas and visa on arrival with the eTA in January 2024, and it applies to US citizens of every age, infants included.
This guide covers what the Kenya eTA costs for Americans, how to apply on the official portal, what documents you need (including your flight itinerary), and a newer insurance requirement to be aware of.
Do US Citizens Need A Visa For Kenya?
Not a traditional visa, but you do need an approved eTA before you travel. There is no visa on arrival. Airlines will check that you have an approved eTA before letting you board.
The eTA covers tourism, visiting family and friends, short business trips and medical visits, with stays of up to 90 days.
Kenya eTA Fees For Americans
| eTA type | Fee (US$) |
|---|---|
| Standard eTA, single entry | 30 |
| Five-year multiple-entry eTA (US nationals) | 185 |
| Transit eTA | 20 |
| Expedited processing | Additional 100 |
These are the government fees on the official portal under the schedule in force since January 1, 2025, before card processing charges. The five-year multiple-entry eTA is a category specifically for American nationals, which is worth considering if you visit East Africa often. Fees are non-refundable, even if your application is refused.
A New Health Insurance Requirement
In October 2026, travelers began reporting a Ministry of Health notice on the official eTA portal requiring non-African visitors to buy Kenya’s inbound travel health insurance before paying for the eTA. Reported cost was around US$44 per traveler plus small processing fees. Check the portal carefully when you apply, as the requirement and price may change, and keep your insurance reference number with your travel documents.
How To Apply For The Kenya eTA
Where to apply
Use only the official portal, etakenya.go.ke, or the official “Kenya Travel Authorisation” app. Many third-party sites look official and charge several times the government fee.
What you need
- A US passport valid for at least six months from your arrival date, with at least one blank page
- A recent passport-style photo (digital)
- A scan of your passport photo page
- Your flight itinerary, including your arrival and departure flights
- Your accommodation booking or host’s details
- An email address
- A card for payment
Step by step
- Go to etakenya.go.ke and start a new application. Families can use the group option.
- Enter your passport and personal details exactly as printed.
- Upload your photo, passport scan, itinerary and accommodation details.
- Complete any insurance step shown on the portal.
- Pay the fee.
- Wait for the decision by email, usually within three working days.
- Print the approved eTA and carry it with your passport.
Timing: you can apply up to 90 days before travel. Apply at least two weeks ahead to leave room for delays, especially in peak safari season from July to October and over the holidays.
Why Your Flight Itinerary Matters
The eTA application asks for your travel itinerary, including how you will leave Kenya. That catches out travelers who have not yet booked their next leg, such as people combining Kenya with Tanzania, Uganda or Rwanda on an open-ended trip.
The details you submit should match what you actually show the airline and immigration. If your exit plans are not final, our guides to flight reservations for visa applications and proof of onward travel explain your options. Heading to Tanzania next? See proof of onward travel for Tanzania.
Health Requirements
Depending on your route, you may need a yellow fever vaccination certificate, particularly if you are arriving from or transiting through a country with yellow fever risk. Check the latest guidance from the CDC and Kenya’s Ministry of Health well before travel, as some vaccines need time to take effect.
Common Mistakes
- Applying on a lookalike site and paying several times the official fee.
- Applying too late, then paying US$100 extra for expedited processing.
- Forgetting the children. Every traveler needs their own eTA.
- Mismatched details between your passport, eTA and bookings.
Frequently Asked Questions
How much is the Kenya eTA for US citizens?
US$30 for the standard single-entry eTA, or US$185 for the five-year multiple-entry eTA for American nationals, plus card fees and any insurance shown on the portal.
How long does the Kenya eTA take?
Usually up to three working days. Expedited processing is available for an extra fee.
Can I get a visa on arrival in Kenya?
No. You must have an approved eTA before you travel.
How long can I stay in Kenya on an eTA?
Up to 90 days.
Can I visit Tanzania and come back to Kenya on the same eTA?
Travelers report that short trips to other East African Community countries do not always require a new eTA, but rules vary. Confirm on the official portal before you plan your route.
Before You Fly
Apply on etakenya.go.ke at least two weeks ahead, check for any insurance step, print your approval, and carry your itinerary. Then get ready for the Big Five.