Simplified Steps to Apply for a Kenyan eTA: A Quick and Easy Guide

Are you planning a trip, safari, or clinical internship in Kenya? Depending on your nationality, obtaining a Kenyan Electronic Travel Authorization (eTA) may be an essential step before travelling.

Kenya's eTA system makes it possible for eligible travellers to apply online without visiting an embassy or consulate. The standard application fee starts at US$30, and processing typically takes three working days.

However, since October 5, 2026, most international visitors must also purchase mandatory inbound travel health insurance before arriving in Kenya. The insurance premium is US$44. 

Here's a simple, updated guide to applying for your Kenyan eTA, purchasing the required insurance, and preparing for your trip.

Step-by-Step Guide to Apply for Your Kenyan eTA

Step 1: Visit the Official eTA Kenya Website

Visit the official Kenya eTA website.

This is the government-authorized platform for submitting eTA applications.

Before beginning, check whether your nationality requires an eTA. Kenya expanded its eTA exemptions in 2025. Citizens of East African Community (EAC) partner states and several other countries, including South Africa, Ghana, and Malaysia, are exempt for qualifying visits.

You can check the current exemptions on the official eTA eligibility page.

Step 2: Start Your Application

On the homepage, click Apply Now.

Follow the instructions displayed on the screen.

Before proceeding, ensure you have:

• A passport valid for at least six months, with at least one blank page
• A recent passport photograph or selfie
• Your flight itinerary or travel details
• Accommodation confirmation
• A valid email address
• A debit or credit card that supports international payments

NOTE: If you're travelling for a Go-Elective medical internship, your Elective Advisor can assist with the relevant accommodation confirmation and supporting documentation.

Step 3: Fill Out the Application Form

Provide your personal information, including:

• Full name as shown on your passport
• Passport number and expiration date
• Nationality
• Date of birth
• Email address and contact information
• Intended arrival and departure dates

Double-check all details before proceeding. Even minor errors in passport information or travel dates can delay your application.

Step 4: Select the Purpose of Travel

Choose the travel purpose that accurately reflects your visit to Kenya. For tourists and safari travellers, this will generally be Tourism.

If you're travelling for a medical, nursing, dental, or pre-health internship, contact your Go-Elective Advisor before selecting your travel purpose. An unpaid internship should not automatically be classified as tourism. Depending on your activities, you may require an Internship/Research Pass in addition to your eTA.

Next, provide your accommodation details.

For example:

• Destination: Mombasa, Kenya
• Accommodation: Your hotel, guesthouse, or host organization
• Supporting document: Accommodation booking or confirmation letter

Go-Elective participants can request the relevant accommodation and placement documents from their Elective Advisor.

Step 5: Purchase Kenya's Mandatory Inbound Travel Health Insurance

This is the most important change to Kenya's entry requirements in October 2026.

As of October 5, 2026, most non-exempt international visitors must purchase Kenya's government-mandated inbound travel health insurance.

The policy is integrated into the eTA application process. When prompted, follow the instructions to obtain your insurance through the approved government system.

• How much does it cost?

The published insurance premium is up to US$44 per traveller. Please note, the insurance is separate from the standard US$30 eTA fee.

• What does the insurance cover?

The government-approved policy provides a maximum cumulative benefit of US$50,000, including:

Coverage is subject to the policy's terms, exclusions, and overall benefit limit.

• How long is it valid?

The policy provides coverage for up to 90 days and permits multiple entries into Kenya during its validity period.

• What if you already have travel insurance?

Your existing international travel insurance does not replace Kenya's mandatory inbound policy. You must still purchase government-approved insurance unless you qualify for an exemption.

• What if you don't need an eTA?

Some travellers are exempt from the eTA but must still purchase mandatory inbound insurance. For example, qualifying South African visitors do not need an eTA but generally still require the insurance.

If you're exempt from the eTA but not the insurance, purchase your policy separately through the official eCitizen Inbound Travel Health Insurance Portal.

• Who is exempt from the insurance?

Exemptions include Kenyan citizens, holders of valid Kenyan residence status, citizens of EAC partner states, and certain diplomatic and transit categories.

Always confirm your eligibility through the official government portal.

Step 6: Submit Your Application and Make Payment

After completing your application and any required insurance purchase, review your information carefully.

The standard eTA application fee starts at US$30. For travellers who require both the eTA and mandatory insurance, the estimated costs are:

The exact amount payable will depend on the application type and charges shown at checkout.

Pay using an accepted debit or credit card. Once your application has been submitted successfully, you should receive confirmation by email.

Step 7: Check Your Application Status

Visit the Kenya eTA website and select Check Status. Enter your application reference number to view the status of your application.

Once approved, download your eTA document and save a copy on your phone. We also recommend printing a copy to carry with your travel documents.

Remember to save your mandatory insurance certificate as well. You may need to present proof of coverage during your journey.

What If You Already Have an Approved eTA?

If you received your eTA before October 5, 2026, but are travelling after the new insurance requirement took effect, you may still need to purchase the mandatory insurance separately.

You generally do not need to submit a new eTA application solely because of the insurance requirement. Instead, obtain your insurance through the official eCitizen insurance portal before travelling.

Troubleshooting Common Issues During Application

#1. Payment Problems

If your payment isn't going through:

• Confirm that your debit or credit card supports international transactions.
• Check whether your bank has blocked the transaction.
• Try using a different browser or device, or open the page in private/incognito mode.
• Avoid repeatedly submitting payments before checking whether the previous transaction was successful.

If your insurance payment fails, check the eCitizen insurance portal for confirmation before attempting another payment.

#2. System Errors

If the application website is not responding:

• Check your internet connection.
• Use an updated browser.
• Clear your browser cache if necessary.
• Try again after a short period.

Avoid submitting multiple applications unless instructed to do so.

#3. Contact Support

If problems persist, contact the eTA support team through the official Kenya eTA website.

Go-Elective participants can also contact their Elective Advisor or email hello@goelective.com for guidance on travel documentation.

Key Information to Remember

I. Processing Time

Kenya eTA applications are generally processed within three working days, although some applications may take longer. We recommend applying at least two weeks before your intended travel date.

II. Application Cost

The standard eTA fee starts at US$30, excluding any applicable transaction charges.

Mandatory inbound travel insurance costs up to US$44 per person, with the final checkout amount potentially higher depending on payment charges.

III. Insurance Validity

The mandatory inbound travel insurance is valid for up to 90 days, including multiple entries during the covered period.

IV. Application Confirmation

After submitting your application, check your email for confirmation and updates. Once approved, save your eTA document.

V. Valid Passport

Your passport must have at least six months of validity and at least one blank page.

VI. Internship Requirements

If you're travelling to Kenya for an internship, your eTA may not be the only immigration document required.

The Kenyan Directorate of Immigration Services issues an Internship/Research Pass for qualifying internship and academic research activities.

NOTE: For Go-Elective participants, or if you plan to apply through Go-Elective, our team assists with coordinating the applicable Internship/Research Pass requirements and supporting documentation with the host institution.

Why Apply for a Kenyan eTA?

The Kenyan eTA simplifies the travel authorization process by allowing eligible visitors to apply online.

Whether you're travelling for a safari in Kenya, exploring the beaches of the Kenyan coast, visiting Nairobi, or joining an international clinical internship, the eTA is an important part of preparing for your journey if your nationality requires it.

Remember that an approved eTA authorizes travel to Kenya but does not guarantee admission. Final entry decisions are made by immigration officials upon arrival.

Benefits of the Kenyan eTA

• Convenient Online Process: Apply without visiting an embassy or consulate.
• Relatively Quick Processing: Most applications are processed within three working days.
• Straightforward Application: Submit your passport details, travel information, and supporting documents online.
• Online Status Tracking: Check your application's progress through the official portal.
• Integrated Insurance Purchase: Eligible travellers can purchase the mandatory inbound travel health insurance during the application process.
  
  

Final Tips for a Smooth Application Process

1. Plan Ahead: Submit your eTA application at least two weeks before travelling.
2. Check Your Eligibility: Confirm whether your nationality requires an eTA.
3. Provide Accurate Information: Double-check your passport details and travel dates.
4. Purchase Mandatory Insurance: Obtain the required government-approved policy before travelling, even if you already have private travel insurance.
5. Budget Accordingly: Allow for both the eTA fee and mandatory insurance premium.
6. Keep Backup Documents: Save digital and printed copies of your eTA, insurance certificate, and accommodation confirmation.
7. Confirm Additional Requirements: If you're joining a clinical internship, check whether an Internship/Research Pass or other documentation is required.
   
   

Frequently Asked Questions

#1. How much does a Kenyan eTA cost in 2026?

The standard Kenyan eTA application fee starts at US$30. Travellers who require mandatory inbound travel insurance must also pay the insurance premium of up to US$44, plus any applicable payment charges.

#2. Is travel insurance mandatory for Kenya in 2026?

Yes. Since October 5, 2026, most non-exempt international visitors must obtain Kenya's mandatory inbound travel health insurance before arrival.

#3. Can I use my own travel insurance instead?

No. Existing international travel insurance does not replace the mandatory Kenyan policy. However, you can maintain additional travel insurance for broader protection.

#4. Do I need mandatory insurance if I'm exempt from the eTA?

Generally, yes, unless you also qualify for an insurance exemption.

Check the official insurance portal for the applicable exemptions.

#5. How long does a Kenyan eTA take to process?

Most applications are processed within three working days, although processing can take longer.

Applying at least two weeks before departure is recommended.

#6. Do I need an Internship Pass for a medical or nursing internship in Kenya?

Depending on your internship activities and immigration status, an Internship/Research Pass may be required in addition to your eTA.

If you're joining a Go-Elective healthcare program, our team can guide you through the relevant requirements.

Conclusion

Applying for a Kenyan eTA is relatively straightforward when you have the correct documents and follow the official process.

The biggest change in October 2026 is the introduction of mandatory inbound travel health insurance, which most international visitors must now purchase before arrival.

Whether you're travelling for a safari, holiday, or international clinical internship, checking your eligibility, budgeting for the additional insurance, and applying early will help you prepare for a smoother arrival.

If you're joining one of Go-Elective's medical, nursing, or pre-health programs in Kenya, our team can assist with your pre-departure requirements.

Contact Go-Elective for guidance or to learn more about our programs.

Safe travels, and welcome to Kenya!

Article Details

Categories

Recent Articles , Pre-health, Medical Electives, Teaching and Volunteer Internships, Safaris Stories, Travel Tips, Dental Internships, Nursing Internships, PA Internships, Residency,

Author: Go-Elective Abroad

Date Published: Nov 2, 2026