For travelers
Do you need a Kenya eTA? Who is exempt in 2026
The answer
Verified 30 October 2026Do I need a Kenya eTA?
You need a Kenya eTA unless your nationality or situation is exempt. Since 2025 rules, exemptions cover East African Community citizens, most other African nationals except those of Libya and Somalia, many Caribbean and Pacific countries, and transit passengers who stay in the airport. Everyone else, including children, needs their own eTA.
TL;DR
- Kenya introduced the eTA in January 2024, replacing visas for most visitors.
- Rules made in May 2025 exempted most African and many other nationals.
- If you don't appear on the exemption list, you need an eTA, children included.
On this page3
How the rules changed
Kenya introduced the electronic travel authorisation (eTA) in January 2024, replacing visas for most visitors. Rules made on 30 May 2025 (Legal Notice No. 93) then widened the list of people who don't need one.
Who is exempt
The 2025 list includes, among others:
- East African Community citizens: Burundi, DR Congo, Rwanda, South Sudan, Tanzania and Uganda, for up to 180 days.
- About 50 listed countries, many in Africa, the Caribbean and the Pacific, for up to 90 days.
- About 27 more African countries, for up to 60 days.
- Transit passengers who stay within the airport; see when transit needs an eTA.
- Residents with permanent residence or a valid work permit, and some official and diplomatic travellers.
Libya and Somalia are not on the exemption list. The list is long and can change, so check your nationality against the official list before you travel.
If you need one
Every traveler applies separately, including babies and children. The step-by-step walkthrough explains what to prepare, and you can start your checklist before opening the official form.