United States to Kenya visa requirements
US citizens must obtain an Electronic Travel Authorisation (eTA) prior to travel to Kenya. Visas on arrival are no longer issued.
Last verified: 2026-04-27
At a glance
What United States travellers need to know
If you hold a United States passport and plan to visit Kenya for tourism, current guidance indicates you need a visa in advance.
US citizens must obtain an Electronic Travel Authorisation (eTA) prior to travel to Kenya. Visas on arrival are no longer issued.
Typical stay guidance: The eTA is valid for 90 days from the date of issuance for a single entry.
Passport rule: Passport must be valid for at least six (6) months after your planned date of arrival in Kenya, with at least one blank page.
Health note: A Yellow Fever vaccination certificate is required if you are arriving from, or have transited for more than 12 hours through, a country with a risk of yellow fever transmission.
Beware of third-party scam websites charging premium fees. Only use the official etakenya.go.ke domain.
Rules change. Cross-check the official sources listed below and your airline’s document checks before you fly from United States to Kenya.
Entry requirements
- Kenya transitioned to a 100% eTA system in January 2024. All US citizens, including infants and children, must hold an approved eTA before boarding their flight.
- The application must be submitted via the official government portal (etakenya.go.ke). The standard processing fee is $30 USD.
- Standard processing takes up to 72 hours, though it is recommended to apply at least two weeks before travel.
Stay
The eTA is valid for 90 days from the date of issuance for a single entry.
Health — Yellow fever
A Yellow Fever vaccination certificate is required if you are arriving from, or have transited for more than 12 hours through, a country with a risk of yellow fever transmission.
Beware of third-party scam websites charging premium fees. Only use the official etakenya.go.ke domain.
How to prepare (United States → Kenya)
- 1
Find the Kenya embassy, consulate, or visa centre that serves applicants in United States (or your country of residence).
- 2
Book an appointment and download the current tourist-visa checklist.
- 3
Prepare passport, photos, itinerary, invitation/hotel proof, bank statements, and forms.
- 4
Submit biometrics/fees and track the application until the passport is returned.
- 5
Only buy non-refundable tickets after the visa is granted, unless your airline allows flexible holds.
Documents checklist
- Valid United States passport (check validity rules above)
- Return or onward ticket
- Proof of accommodation in Kenya
- Proof of sufficient funds for your stay
- Onward travel: Proof of return or onward ticket is required.
- Yellow fever certificate if required for your routing
- Completed visa application form and supporting checklist documents
- Travel insurance (recommended)
Frequently asked questions
Do United States citizens need a visa for Kenya?
Based on Tsavaro’s last verification (2026-04-27), United States travellers need a visa in advance for tourism to Kenya. US citizens must obtain an Electronic Travel Authorisation (eTA) prior to travel to Kenya. Visas on arrival are no longer issued.
How long can I stay in Kenya on a United States passport?
The eTA is valid for 90 days from the date of issuance for a single entry.
What documents should United States travellers carry to Kenya?
At minimum: a valid passport, return/onward ticket, accommodation proof, and funds. Also note: A Yellow Fever vaccination certificate is required if you are arriving from, or have transited for more than 12 hours through, a country with a risk of yellow fever transmission.
Where can I verify Kenya entry rules officially?
Start with: Official Kenya eTA Portal. Requirements can change without notice.
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Sources
Important
This tool is for guidance only and may be incomplete or out of date. Always confirm with official government sources and your airline before you travel.