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 German 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.1

Germany is one of Kenya’s key European source markets for tourism, with thousands of German visitors each year drawn to the country’s world-famous wildlife reserves, pristine beaches, and rich cultural heritage.5 The strong travel corridor between the two countries means the eTA system is well-optimized for German applicants.

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 German 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 $30 (approximately €28) 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

The fee is the same for all German 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

Apply at least 7-10 days before your departure date to allow time for any issues to be resolved. Peak tourist seasons for Kenya, particularly July to October for the Great Migration, may experience higher application volumes.5

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 Germany
• 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)

The Auswärtiges Amt and German travel health advisories recommend checking current requirements before travel, as yellow fever is present in some parts of Kenya. Consult your doctor or a travel health clinic (Tropeninstitut) before your trip.

If Your Application Is Denied

If your eTA application is rejected:1

Immediate steps:

1. Check the rejection email for the specific reason
2. Review your application for errors
3. 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

The Auswärtiges Amt (German Federal Foreign Office) advises against travel to some parts of Kenya:2

Areas to avoid:

• Within 60km of the Kenya-Somalia border
• Garissa, Mandera, and Wajir counties
• Parts of Lamu County (excluding Lamu Island and Manda Island)
• Areas of Tana River County north of the Tana River

Exercise increased caution:

• Eastleigh area of Nairobi
• Low-income areas of Mombasa
• Coastal areas north of Malindi

Generally safe for tourists:

• Nairobi city centre and tourist areas
• Masai Mara National Reserve
• Amboseli National Park
• Lake Nakuru and Lake Naivasha
• Mount Kenya region
• Coastal resorts including Diani Beach, Watamu, and Malindi

Register with the German embassy before travelling and monitor travel advisories.

Popular Destinations

Kenya offers world-renowned experiences for German 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)