Since January 1, 2024, the Kenyan government has introduced a new electronic travel authorization application system called ETA (Electronic Travel Authorization) following its visa waiver announcement. Anyone wishing to travel to Kenya is now required to obtain an ETA prior to departure. To simplify this process, the country has just launched a dedicated mobile application to manage these formalities quickly and simply.
What is the ETA system?
The ETA is an electronic residence permit valid for stays of less than 90 days in Kenya. All nationalities are covered by this document, with the exception of six countries: Burundi🇧🇮, RD Congo🇨🇩, Rwanda🇷🇼, Sudan Sud🇸🇸, Tanzanie🇹🇿 and Ouganda🇺🇬. Minors, even those under 16, must also apply for a personal ETA.
To obtain an ETA, the traveller must provide a number of documents and information such as :
- Last name, first name, date of birth;
- Passport number, expiry date;
- E-mail address and telephone number;
- Residential address;
- Country of residence;
- Profession;
- Reason for the trip;
- Flight information;
The cost of an ETA is USD 30 (29 €) in the "standard" version or USD 50 (48 €) for the premium version. The price via the application is more or less the same.
The Kenya eTA mobile application in detail
To make it easier for travelers to manage their ETA application, the Kenyan government has developed the "Kenya eTA” currently available only on Google Play Store. It's likely that an iOS version is also in development, to reach as many travelers as possible.
This state-approved application offers several advantages :
- A simple, ergonomic interface for filling in the online form;
- Direct upload of required documents (passport photo, copy of passport, proof of accommodation, etc.);
- Real-time monitoring of your file;
- Receive confirmation and the final document directly in the application.
Please note that all data transmitted via the application is encrypted and used solely for the purpose of requesting travel authorization. Personal information is not shared with third parties, unless the user explicitly chooses to receive additional information.
Mobile travel authorization applications: a growing trend
The development and launch of the Kenya eTA application is part of a worldwide trend to simplify and digitize residence permit procedures. Other countries have set up similar systems, such as :
- the American ESTA, for travellers to the United States;
- the New Zealand NZeTArequired for travel in New Zealand.
These applications make life much easier for travellers, by speeding up and simplifying administrative procedures. What's more, they help reduce the ecological footprint associated with these formalities, by minimizing the use of paper and physical visits to embassies and consulates.
Fill in a file from ETA Kenya
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