Kenya Electronic Travel Authorization
Kenya eTA (Tourist) · For Australia citizens
Planning a safari or beach holiday in Kenya as an Australian citizen? You need an Electronic Travel Authorization (eTA) before traveling, which costs $32.50 and is typically approved within 3 working days. The eTA replaced Kenya's traditional visa system in January 2024, making entry simpler for Australian travelers. With an approval rate above 97%, most applications are processed without issues.
Kenya eTA for Australian Citizens (2025) - Document Checklist
For Australia citizens · VisaBeat.com
Document Checklist
Your Australian passport must meet Kenya's entry requirements
A recent digital photograph meeting Kenya's eTA photo requirements
Details of your arrival and departure from Kenya
Confirmation of where you will stay in Kenya
Credit or debit card to pay the eTA fee
Valid email address and phone number
Recommended (Optional)
International Certificate of Vaccination for yellow fever
About Kenya’s Electronic Travel Authorization
In January 2024, Kenya replaced its traditional visa system with the Electronic Travel Authorization (eTA), making it easier for travellers from around the world to visit.1 The eTA is an online pre-authorization system that allows Kenya to screen visitors before arrival while streamlining the entry process.3
For Australian citizens, this means no embassy visits, no paper applications, and no waiting for passport return by post. Everything is done online, and approval arrives by email.2
Australia and Kenya share a strong relationship, with many Australians drawn to Kenya’s world-famous wildlife reserves, pristine beaches, and rich cultural heritage each year. The eTA system makes planning your Kenyan adventure simpler than ever.4
Application Process
Applying for your Kenya eTA is straightforward. Here is the step-by-step process:1
Step 1: Gather your documents
Before starting, have ready:
- Your Australian passport (valid for at least 6 months beyond your arrival date)
- A passport-style photo (digital)
- Travel dates and flight information
- Accommodation booking details
- Credit or debit card for payment
Step 2: Visit the official portal
Go to etakenya.go.ke and create an account.1 Be cautious of unofficial websites that charge higher fees or cannot provide valid authorisations.
Step 3: Complete the application
Fill in your personal details exactly as they appear on your passport. Upload your passport scan and photo. Enter your travel itinerary and accommodation information.
Step 4: Pay the fee
The eTA costs $32.50 USD (approximately A$50) plus a small bank processing fee.1 Payment is made online by credit or debit card.
Step 5: Wait for approval
Standard processing takes 3 working days, though it may be faster depending on volume.3 You will receive email notifications about your application status.
Step 6: Receive your eTA
Once approved, download and print your eTA confirmation. While Kenya uses electronic verification, having a printed copy provides backup.
Fees
| Fee Type | Amount (USD) | Amount (AUD approx.) | Notes |
|---|---|---|---|
| eTA Application | $32.50 | ~A$50 | Standard fee for all applicants |
| Bank Processing | ~$1.59 | ~A$2.50 | Varies slightly by payment method |
| Total | ~$34.09 | ~A$52.50 | Paid online during application |
The fee is the same for all Australian citizens regardless of age. Children and infants also require their own eTA and must pay the full fee.1
The application fee is non-refundable, even if your application is denied.1 Ensure all information is correct before submitting.
Processing Times
| Application Type | Processing Time |
|---|---|
| Standard | 3 working days |
| Peak Season | Up to 5-7 working days |
Smartraveller recommends applying at least 2 weeks before your departure date to allow time for any issues to be resolved.2 Peak tourist seasons for Kenya, particularly July to October for the Great Migration, may experience higher application volumes.
Validity and Duration of Stay
Understanding how the eTA works:12
eTA Validity: Your approved eTA is valid for travel within 90 days from the date of issuance. You must enter Kenya within this window.
Duration of Stay: The actual length of stay is determined by immigration officers at your port of entry. For tourism, this is typically up to 90 days.
Single Entry: The standard eTA allows for a single entry. If you leave Kenya and wish to return, you may need a new eTA (unless travelling to neighbouring East African Community countries under the East Africa Tourist Visa scheme).
At the Border
When you arrive at Jomo Kenyatta International Airport (Nairobi), Moi International Airport (Mombasa), or other ports of entry:2
1. Proceed to immigration
Join the queue for foreign passport holders. Have your passport and printed eTA confirmation ready.
2. Present documents
The immigration officer will verify your eTA electronically, check your passport, and may ask basic questions about your visit:
- Purpose of your trip
- Where you are staying
- How long you plan to stay
- Your return travel arrangements
3. Biometrics
Your fingerprints and photograph may be taken as part of the entry process.
4. Entry stamp
Once cleared, you will receive an entry stamp in your passport indicating your permitted stay duration.
5. Customs
After immigration, collect your baggage and proceed through customs. Declare any items as required.
Yellow Fever Requirements
Yellow fever vaccination requirements depend on your travel routing:2
NOT required if:
- Flying directly from Australia
- Flying from other non-endemic countries
REQUIRED if:
- Arriving from a country with yellow fever risk
- Transiting for more than 12 hours through an endemic country (such as Ethiopia, Uganda, Rwanda, or Tanzania)
Smartraveller recommends consulting a travel health clinic before your trip to Kenya, as yellow fever is present in some parts of the country. Many travel clinics in Australia can provide vaccinations and health advice specific to your itinerary.
If Your Application Is Denied
If your eTA application is rejected:1
Immediate steps:
- Check the rejection email for the specific reason
- Review your application for errors
- Gather correct documentation
Common solutions:
- Photo issues: Take a new photo with proper lighting and a plain background
- Passport scan problems: Rescan with all corners visible and text clear
- Information errors: Verify all details match your passport exactly
- Missing documents: Prepare all required supporting materials
Reapplication:
You can submit a new application after addressing the issues. Note that the fee must be paid again as it is non-refundable. There is no limit on how many times you can apply, but multiple rejected applications may invite additional scrutiny.
Contact support:
For complex issues, contact the Kenya eTA support team:
- Email: etakenya@ecitizen.go.ke
- Phone: +254 717 436 070
- WhatsApp: +254 110 922 064
Travel Advisory
Smartraveller advises Australians to exercise a high degree of caution in Kenya due to the threat of terrorism and violent crime. Higher levels apply in some areas.2
Do not travel to:
- Border regions with Somalia (Mandera, Garissa, and parts of Wajir counties)
- These areas have high risk of terrorist attack and kidnapping
Reconsider your need to travel to:
- Lamu County
- Areas within Tana River and Kilifi Counties near the coast
Generally safe for tourists:
- Nairobi city centre and tourist areas
- Masai Mara National Reserve
- Amboseli National Park
- Lake Nakuru
- Coastal resorts including Diani Beach, Watamu, and Malindi
- Mount Kenya region
Register with Smartraveller before travelling and subscribe to travel advice updates.
Popular Destinations
Kenya offers world-renowned experiences for Australian visitors:
Wildlife and Safari:
- Masai Mara National Reserve (Great Migration, July-October)
- Amboseli National Park (elephants with Mt. Kilimanjaro backdrop)
- Lake Nakuru National Park (flamingos and rhinos)
- Samburu National Reserve (unique northern species)
- Tsavo National Parks (East and West)
Beaches:
- Diani Beach (consistently rated one of Africa’s best)
- Watamu (marine park and coral reefs)
- Malindi (historic Swahili coast town)
- Lamu Island (UNESCO World Heritage Site)
Cultural Experiences:
- Nairobi National Museum
- Karen Blixen Museum
- Maasai village visits
- David Sheldrick Wildlife Trust (elephant orphanage)
- Giraffe Centre, Nairobi
Adventure:
- Mount Kenya trekking
- Hot air balloon safaris over the Mara
- Diving and snorkelling on the coast
- Hell’s Gate National Park (cycling and rock climbing)
Getting There from Australia
There are no direct flights from Australia to Kenya. Common routing options include:
Via Middle East (most popular):
- Emirates via Dubai (connects to Nairobi)
- Qatar Airways via Doha (connects to Nairobi)
- Etihad via Abu Dhabi (connects to Nairobi)
Via Asia:
- Singapore Airlines via Singapore (connect to partner airline)
- Cathay Pacific via Hong Kong (connect to partner airline)
Via Africa:
- South African Airways via Johannesburg (connects to Nairobi)
- Ethiopian Airlines via Addis Ababa (connects to Nairobi)
Total travel time from major Australian cities is typically 18-24 hours including connections. Book flights that allow adequate connection time, especially if connecting through busy hubs like Dubai.
Consular Assistance
If you need help while in Kenya, contact the Australian High Commission in Nairobi:
Australian High Commission, Nairobi
- Address: Limuru Road, Rosslyn, Nairobi
- Phone: (+254) 20 4277 100
- Website: kenya.highcommission.gov.au
24-hour Consular Emergency Centre
- From overseas: +61 2 6261 3305
- From Australia: 1300 555 135
Common Rejection Reasons
Based on official refusal data for this corridor
Application Form Errors
Incorrect or mismatched personal details between the application and passport
How to avoid: Double-check that your name, passport number, date of birth, and other details match your passport exactly before submitting.
Poor Quality Document Uploads
Passport scan or photo is blurry, cropped incorrectly, or does not meet requirements
How to avoid: Ensure your passport scan shows all four corners and text is clearly readable. Use good lighting for your photo with a plain background.
Passport Validity Issues
Passport does not have at least 6 months validity from arrival date or lacks blank pages
How to avoid: Renew your passport before applying if it expires within 6-8 months of your planned trip.
Incomplete Application
Missing required information such as travel dates, accommodation details, or contact information
How to avoid: Have all your travel details ready before starting the application. Review each section before submitting.
Using Unofficial Websites
Applications submitted through third-party or scam websites instead of the official portal
How to avoid: Only apply through the official website at etakenya.go.ke. Unofficial sites may charge higher fees and cannot process valid authorisations.
Previous Immigration Violations
History of overstaying previous visas or other immigration violations in Kenya or elsewhere
How to avoid: If you have previous immigration issues, ensure you can explain them and provide documentation showing resolution.
Frequently Asked Questions
Do Australian citizens need a visa to visit Kenya?
Australian citizens need an Electronic Travel Authorization (eTA) to visit Kenya, which replaced the traditional visa system in January 2024. The eTA must be obtained online before travel. It costs $32.50 USD and is typically processed within 3 working days.
How long can Australians stay in Kenya?
The eTA is valid for travel within 90 days of issuance. Upon arrival, immigration officers determine your actual permitted stay, which can be up to 90 days for tourism purposes.
How do I apply for a Kenya eTA from Australia?
Apply online at the official portal etakenya.go.ke. You will need your passport, a digital photo, travel itinerary, accommodation details, and a credit or debit card for payment. The process takes about 15-20 minutes to complete.
How long does the Kenya eTA take to process?
Standard processing takes 3 working days. However, Smartraveller recommends applying at least 2 weeks before your planned departure to allow for any issues to be resolved.
What documents do I need for Kenya eTA application?
You need a valid Australian passport (with at least 6 months validity and 2 blank pages), a passport-style photo, travel itinerary with flight details, proof of accommodation, and a credit or debit card for the $32.50 fee.
Is a yellow fever vaccine required for Kenya?
Yellow fever vaccination is required only if you are arriving from or transiting through a country with risk of yellow fever transmission. If flying directly from Australia, it is not mandatory. However, Smartraveller recommends checking with a travel health clinic before your trip.
Can I get a visa on arrival in Kenya?
No. As of January 2024, the eTA must be obtained before travelling to Kenya. There is no visa on arrival option for Australian citizens. Airlines may deny boarding if you do not have an approved eTA.
What if my Kenya eTA application is denied?
If denied, you will receive notification by email. Review the rejection reason, correct any issues such as photo quality or information errors, and submit a new application. The fee is non-refundable for denied applications.
Can I extend my stay in Kenya beyond 90 days?
Extensions may be possible by applying to the Kenya Directorate of Immigration Services before your authorised stay expires. Extensions are granted at the discretion of immigration authorities and require a valid reason.
Is Kenya safe for Australian tourists?
Smartraveller advises Australians to exercise a high degree of caution in Kenya due to the threat of terrorism and violent crime. However, popular tourist destinations like the Masai Mara, Nairobi, Mombasa, and beach resorts are generally safe when standard precautions are followed. Avoid travel to border areas with Somalia.
What is the best time to visit Kenya from Australia?
The Great Migration in the Masai Mara occurs from July to October. The dry seasons of January to March and July to October offer the best wildlife viewing. These periods coincide with Australian winter, making it an ideal escape from the cold.
Are there direct flights from Australia to Kenya?
There are no direct flights from Australia to Kenya. Most routes connect through hubs such as Dubai, Doha, Singapore, or Johannesburg. Flight time including connections is typically 18-24 hours depending on the routing.