United States to Kenya tourist visa
Complete Kenya eTA guide for Americans: $32.50 fee, 3-day processing, requirements, and tips. Updated July 2026.
- Visa
- Kenya Electronic Travel Authorization
- Fee
- $32.50
- Processing time
- 3 working days
- Length of stay
- Up to 90 days
Required documents
- Valid Passport — Your US passport must be valid for at least 6 months from your date of entry
- Digital Passport Photo — Recent passport-style photograph
- Travel Itinerary — Details of your planned trip to Kenya
- Return or Onward Ticket — Proof you will leave Kenya within your allowed stay
How to apply
- US passport with 6+ months — US passport with 6+ months validity
- Digital passport photo — Digital passport photo
- Travel itinerary (flights, hotels) — Travel itinerary (flights, hotels)
- Payment method (credit/debit card) — Payment method (credit/debit card)
- Personal information matching passport — Personal information matching passport
- Travel details and purpose — Travel details and purpose
Common questions
- Do US citizens need a visa for Kenya?
- US citizens need an Electronic Travel Authorization (eTA) to visit Kenya. The traditional visa system was replaced by the eTA in January 2024. The eTA costs about $35 and must be obtained before travel.
- How much does the Kenya eTA cost for Americans?
- The Kenya eTA costs approximately $32.50 plus a small bank processing fee, totaling around $34–35. Apply on the official government portal etakenya.go.ke to avoid third-party markups.
- How long can US citizens stay in Kenya?
- With an eTA, US citizens can stay up to 90 days in Kenya for tourism purposes. Extensions may be possible through local immigration offices.
- How long does Kenya eTA processing take?
- Processing typically takes 3 working days. Apply at least 1 week before travel. The eTA is delivered by email once approved.
- Can I get a visa on arrival in Kenya as an American?
- No, Kenya no longer issues visas on arrival. All visitors including US citizens must obtain an eTA before traveling. Apply online at etakenya.go.ke.
- What replaced the Kenya e-visa?
- The Electronic Travel Authorization (eTA) replaced the e-visa system on January 1, 2024. The process is similar but the eTA is specifically for tourism and short business visits.