Visa Requirements for United Kingdom Citizens Visiting Kenya

UK citizens planning a trip to Kenya should obtain an Electronic Travel Authorization (eTA) before arrival. The Kenyan government now requires that all foreign travelers from visa-exempt or non-exempt countries, including the United Kingdom, apply for an eTA via its official portal. This system replaces the previous visa-on-arrival and eVisa schemes that were phased out to streamline border control and enhance immigration security. Since early 2021, UK passport holders have been required to complete this process online in advance. The eTA allows travelers to enter Kenya for tourism, business, or transit purposes and is typically valid for a single entry of up to 90 days. Extensions may be possible through the Directorate of Immigration Services in Kenya. For those planning to explore neighboring countries, the East Africa Tourist Visa remains a valuable option. While separate from Kenya's eTA system, this regional visa permits travel between Kenya, Uganda, and Rwanda, provided Kenya is the first point of entry. It offers seamless movement within East Africa for up to 90 days. To apply for the Kenyan eTA, UK travelers must create an account on the official eTA portal, complete the application form, upload necessary documents, and pay a processing fee. Required documents typically include a valid UK passport with at least six months of validity, a recent passport-style photo, flight confirmation or itinerary, proof of accommodation, and possibly evidence of sufficient travel funds. A Yellow Fever vaccination certificate may also be required if the traveler has recently visited or transited through an endemic area. Common errors in the application process; such as unclear photos, mismatched document information, or inaccurate travel dates; can delay approval or cause rejections. To minimize issues, travelers are strongly advised to apply at least two weeks before their intended travel date. Health regulations remain critical. Depending on global or regional health alerts, travelers might be asked to provide COVID-19 vaccination proof or a negative test result. Recommended vaccinations include Yellow Fever, Hepatitis A and B, typhoid, and tetanus. Our team provides eTA application support for clients booking safaris or guided tours with us. While we do not process authorizations directly, we assist with understanding the requirements, preparing documents, and avoiding common mistakes. This ensures a smooth and stress-free start to your Kenyan adventure. Always verify current travel and entry requirements through official Kenyan government websites or trusted travel advisors before departure.

Electronic Travel Authorization (eTA) Types and Details

Do UK Citizens Need an eTA to Enter Kenya?

Yes, UK citizens are required to obtain an Electronic Travel Authorization (eTA) before traveling to Kenya. The Kenyan government no longer issues visas on arrival, meaning all UK travelers must secure their entry permit in advance through the official eTA system. Introduced in January 2024, the eTA replaced the former eVisa, streamlining entry procedures while strengthening border security. For most travelers, this adjustment has resulted in faster clearance times and better pre-travel preparation. The application process is entirely online. UK travelers must visit the official Kenya eTA portal, create a personal account, and complete the step-by-step form. Essential requirements include a valid UK passport with at least six months’ validity, a recent passport photo, proof of onward or return travel, and confirmed accommodation in Kenya. Once the application is submitted and the USD 34 fee paid, approval generally takes two to five working days. The standard eTA allows entry for up to 90 days and can be extended once, for an additional 90 days, through the Directorate of Immigration Services in Nairobi. For regional travel, the East Africa Tourist Visa remains available. This multi-country option permits movement between Kenya, Uganda, and Rwanda for 90 days, provided that Kenya is the first entry point. Applicants should take care to avoid errors that may delay approval, such as uploading blurry photos, using unofficial websites that charge inflated fees, or submitting incorrect itineraries. To minimize risks, it is recommended to apply at least two weeks before departure and carefully review all documents. Health considerations are also part of the approval process. Depending on the traveler’s route, a Yellow Fever vaccination certificate may be mandatory. While COVID-19 restrictions have eased, visitors should still check the latest updates from the Kenyan Ministry of Health. For those booking with Homejoy Safari Adventures, we provide tailored guidance on the eTA process. Although we do not issue the authorization directly, we assist with documentation checks, application tips, and updates on status. This ensures a smooth experience, allowing travelers to focus on Kenya’s breathtaking landscapes, wildlife, and culture with complete peace of mind.

Applying for a Kenyan Electronic Travel Authorisation (eTA) from the UK

Applying for a Kenyan Electronic Travel Authorisation (eTA) as a UK citizen is a simple and efficient process when approached with the right preparation. As of 2024, Kenya has replaced the traditional eVisa with an eTA system for most travelers, including those from the United Kingdom. The eTA is mandatory for all UK passport holders entering Kenya for tourism, business, or transit purposes. The Electronic Travel Authorisation (eTA) is a pre-screening process introduced by the Kenyan government to enhance border security and improve travel facilitation. It allows travelers to obtain travel authorisation online before departure, eliminating the need for a visa-on-arrival or a consular visit. All UK passport holders must apply for an eTA before traveling to Kenya. This requirement applies whether you are visiting for tourism, business, or simply transiting through the country.

1. Access the Official eTA Portal: Visit the official Kenyan eTA website. Ensure that you are on the legitimate government portal to avoid third-party scams.
2. Create an Account: Sign up with a valid email address and set up a secure password. Your account will be used to manage applications, track status, and download the approved authorisation.
3. Fill Out the Application Form: Provide the required information accurately, including your personal and passport details, travel dates and flight information, accommodation arrangements in Kenya, and the purpose of your visit.
4. Upload Required Documents: Prepare and upload clear digital copies of a valid UK passport with at least six months of validity remaining, a recent passport-style photograph, proof of travel such as a flight confirmation, and your accommodation booking or an invitation letter from your host in Kenya.
5. Pay the eTA Fee: Pay the processing fee using a credit or debit card. Fees are non-refundable, so double-check your entries before proceeding.
6. Receive and Download Your eTA: Processing typically takes 2 to 3 working days. Once approved, you will receive an email notification. Log into your eTA account to download the authorisation document and print it for presentation upon arrival in Kenya.

The eTA system simplifies entry to Kenya and enhances your pre-travel planning. UK travelers are encouraged to familiarise themselves with the new process well in advance of travel to avoid any last-minute issues. For group tours or special travel arrangements, consider consulting a travel advisor experienced with Kenyan entry requirements.

Required Documents for UK Citizens Applying for a Kenya eTA

When applying for a Kenya Electronic Travel Authorization (eTA), UK citizens must provide a set of valid and clearly formatted documents. Unlike a traditional visa, the eTA is a pre-travel clearance required for entry into Kenya and is applied for entirely online. Submitting accurate and legible documentation in the correct formats (JPG, PNG, or PDF) is essential for a smooth and timely approval process. Below are the essential documents required for a successful Kenya eTA application:

1. Valid UK Passport: To apply for a Kenya eTA, your UK passport must meet specific conditions to ensure eligibility for entry. It must be valid for at least six months beyond your intended arrival date in Kenya. Additionally, the passport should contain at least one blank page for immigration stamps upon arrival and departure. You will be required to upload a high-quality scan of the biodata page of your passport, making sure all information is clear and legible for digital verification.
2. Recent Passport-Size Photograph: You are required to provide a recent passport-sized digital photograph as part of your Kenya eTA application. The photo should be taken within the last six months and must be in color. It must have a white background and clearly display your full face with a neutral expression. This ensures accurate identification. The image should be uploaded in a clear and unaltered format that meets the size and resolution requirements outlined on the application portal. 
3. Travel Itinerary or Flight Booking: Providing your travel itinerary or confirmed flight booking is an essential step in the Kenya eTA process. This document must include both your entry into and exit from Kenya, showing confirmed dates that align with the information submitted on your application form. This allows immigration authorities to verify your travel intentions and plan your entry accordingly. It helps demonstrate that your trip is planned and that you intend to leave within the permitted stay period.
4. Accommodation Details: Applicants must show proof of accommodation while in Kenya. This can be done by submitting a confirmed hotel reservation with your name and stay dates visible. Alternatively, if you are staying with a resident, an invitation letter is required. The letter must include the host's full name, physical address, contact number, and a copy of their Kenyan ID. These details help the immigration department verify where you will be residing during your visit.
5. Purpose of Visit: It is important to clearly outline the purpose of your visit when applying for the Kenya eTA. If visiting for tourism, a general itinerary or travel plan will suffice. For business purposes, a letter from the inviting company in Kenya must specify the nature of the business. Family visits require an invitation letter and a copy of the host's identification. Clearly stating your purpose helps align your documentation with your intended activities while in Kenya.
6. Contact Details: Ensure that your contact information is accurate and up-to-date. You must provide a working email address as all official communication, including the issuance of the eTA, will be sent to it. Additionally, include a reachable phone number that can be used while you are in Kenya. This information is crucial for follow-up, status updates, and in case of any clarifications required during the processing of your application.
7. Vaccination Certificate (if applicable): Depending on your travel history, a Yellow Fever vaccination certificate may be necessary. If you are arriving from or transiting through a country considered at risk for Yellow Fever, the certificate becomes a mandatory requirement. It helps protect both travelers and local populations from the spread of the disease. Although not always required, having this certificate is highly recommended, especially for those traveling to rural or endemic regions of Kenya.

Having all documents correctly formatted and submitted digitally increases the chances of a fast and successful eTA approval. Double-check that all details in your application match your documentation exactly. For added peace of mind, consider using professional services or official guidance if you are unsure about any part of the process.

Length of Stay Allowed in Kenya for UK Passport Holders Under the eTA System

UK passport holders traveling to Kenya under the Electronic Travel Authorization (eTA) system are typically permitted to stay in the country for up to 90 consecutive days. This duration begins from the date of arrival, and visitors are required to depart Kenya or apply for an extension before the 90-day period expires. The eTA is issued for tourism, business, medical, or transit purposes, and the initial 90-day stay aligns with the standard immigration policies governing short-term visits. Travelers who wish to extend their stay must submit an application for extension at the Directorate of Immigration Services, located in Nairobi. If the extension is approved, the stay may be prolonged by an additional 90 days, making the maximum possible stay under a single eTA a total of 180 days. It is important to note that the extension is not automatic and is granted at the discretion of immigration authorities. All applicants must provide valid reasons and any supporting documentation that may be required. The authorities assess each case individually to ensure compliance with immigration regulations. Overstaying beyond the authorized period can result in penalties, including fines, deportation, or future entry bans. Immigration checks are enforced at exit points to verify adherence to the visa or eTA terms. Travelers are advised to consult the official Kenyan immigration website or contact reliable travel advisory services to confirm the most up-to-date policies and to receive guidance on any extension procedures if needed. Adhering to the permitted duration under the eTA ensures a smooth and legally compliant stay in Kenya.

Common Mistakes UK Tourists Should Avoid When Applying for a Kenya eTA

UK travellers planning to visit Kenya must now apply for an Electronic Travel Authorisation (eTA), a requirement that has replaced the traditional visa process. While the new system simplifies entry procedures, many applicants still face avoidable errors that lead to delays or rejections. Understanding these pitfalls is key to ensuring a smooth approval process. One of the most frequent mistakes is uploading unclear or non-compliant documents. For example, submitting a passport photo that is blurry, incorrectly lit, or poorly cropped can trigger an automatic rejection. Similarly, uploading scanned passport copies that are missing key information; like full name, MRZ code, or expiration date; can cause the system to flag the application. Another oversight is failing to check passport validity. Kenyan authorities require that your passport remains valid for at least six months from the date of arrival. Submitting an application with a passport nearing expiry is a common reason for denial. Applicants often omit critical travel details. When filling out your eTA, it's essential to include both your arrival and departure flight information. Leaving these sections incomplete or vague may lead authorities to question your travel intentions, resulting in processing delays. Using unofficial websites is another recurring issue. Numerous third-party sites charge extra fees or promise expedited service, yet they often fail to deliver. The safest and most reliable option is to apply directly through the official Kenya eTA portal, ensuring data security and streamlined communication with immigration authorities. Timing is also crucial. Many travellers submit their applications too close to their intended travel date. Although most eTAs are processed within 2–5 business days, it's wise to apply at least two weeks in advance to allow for any unforeseen issues or document verification delays. Discrepancies across documents are another red flag. If your accommodation listed in the application doesn’t match your travel insurance or flight itinerary, the mismatch could cast doubt on the authenticity of your plans. Ensure all your documents tell a consistent story. We support clients in navigating the Kenya eTA process by helping review documents, verify travel details, and ensure applications meet all requirements. While we don’t submit the eTA for you, our guidance significantly reduces the likelihood of costly mistakes. By avoiding these common errors, UK travellers can enhance their chances of receiving a Kenya eTA without delays making for a stress-free start to their journey.

Health and Vaccination Requirements for UK Visitors to Kenya

Preparing for travel to Kenya involves more than packing bags and booking flights. UK citizens must also understand and meet Kenya’s specific health and vaccination entry requirements. These guidelines are designed to protect both visitors and residents from the risk of communicable diseases. While many of these requirements are based on standard international health protocols, they can vary depending on a traveler's recent locations and prevailing health advisories. Meeting these requirements ensures smooth passage through immigration and a safer overall travel experience.

• Yellow Fever Certificate: This is mandatory for travelers coming from or transiting through Yellow Fever endemic countries. Kenya takes Yellow Fever prevention seriously due to the potential for outbreaks, particularly in rural or forested areas. While it is not required for direct arrivals from the UK, it is highly recommended for travelers venturing outside urban areas or planning extended stays in the countryside. The vaccination must be administered at least 10 days before arrival and the certificate remains valid for life.
• COVID-19: As of 2025, most restrictions have been eased, but travelers should remain aware of evolving policies. Currently, UK visitors may still be asked to provide proof of full COVID-19 vaccination or a negative PCR test taken within 72 hours of travel. These measures can shift with little notice depending on global or regional outbreaks, so it's essential to check the Kenyan Ministry of Health updates or consult with a travel advisor prior to departure.

Recommended Vaccinations

Health experts strongly advise travelers to get immunized against common travel-related diseases, especially if they plan to visit remote regions or participate in outdoor activities. These include:

• Typhoid: Recommended for all travelers, especially those visiting smaller cities or villages where sanitation may be less reliable.
• Hepatitis A and B: These viruses can be contracted through contaminated food, water, or medical instruments, making immunization particularly wise for long-term stays.
• Cholera: Although rare among short-term visitors, it can be a concern in areas with limited access to clean water.
• Tetanus: Injuries while hiking, on safari, or during rural excursions can expose travelers to this potentially deadly infection.

UK citizens should visit a certified travel clinic 4 to 6 weeks before departure to receive appropriate guidance and immunizations. Clinics will provide up-to-date advice based on your itinerary, health status, and vaccination history. Taking these precautions not only ensures compliance with Kenyan entry regulations but also contributes to your well-being throughout your journey. Consulting a travel health clinic 4 to 6 weeks prior to departure allows time for required and optional vaccinations.