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Kenya Visa for United States Citizens 2026

e-Visa / eTA

U.S. citizens need an Electronic Travel Authorization (eTA) before flying to Kenya - apply online at eCitizen.go.ke at least a few days ahead; the fee is about $34, approval usually arrives within 3 business days, and it allows stays up to 90 days.

Guide last updated October 1, 2026. Always verify with official sources before travel.

What you need

  • Passport valid 6+ months with at least 1 blank page
  • Digital passport-style photo and scanned passport bio page uploaded to the eTA application
  • Yellow fever vaccination certificate required if arriving from or having transited a yellow-fever-endemic country
  • Proof of accommodation/itinerary may be requested
  • Fingerprints and photo taken at immigration on arrival
  • Travel health insurance recommended

Visa types

  • Electronic Travel Authorization / eTA - replaced the former eVisa; single entry, valid for a stay of up to 90 days, used for tourism, business, transit, or medical visits, approx $34
  • East Africa Tourist Visa - a separate joint visa covering Kenya, Uganda, and Rwanda for 90 days, approx $100, applied for through any of the three countries' immigration portals
  • Multiple-entry/long-term passes available for frequent travelers through Kenyan immigration directly

How to apply online

  • Apply at the official eCitizen Kenya portal, create an account, complete the eTA form with trip and passport details, upload your photo and passport scan, and pay online by card
  • Processing is typically completed within 3 business days, often faster
  • You'll receive an approval notice by email - print or save it digitally to present with your passport on arrival

Fees & processing time

  • eTA fee is approximately $34 USD per applicant (fees have changed since the 2024 system switch, so check the current rate on eCitizen)
  • Payment is made online during the application
  • Standard processing is up to 3 business days
  • No official same-day express service, so apply at least a week ahead

Tips for United States travelers

  • Apply for your eTA well before travel, since technical issues with the eCitizen portal have been reported
  • Make sure your yellow fever certificate is in order if arriving via a connecting flight through an endemic country
  • If combining Kenya with Uganda or Rwanda on the same trip, the East Africa Tourist Visa is more cost-effective than three separate entries
  • Keep a printed and digital copy of your eTA approval, since connectivity at some border points can be unreliable

Official links & resources

Always confirm requirements with government or embassy sources before applying.

More visa guides for United States passport holders

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This guide is for information only. Visa policies change without notice. Travel Visa Stack is not an immigration authority. Always verify with official government or embassy sources before making travel plans.