Kenya is one of the top choices for the global travelers in Africa. The foundation of a successful trip lays on the right visa application process.
Global tourists prefer visiting Kenya as it has a perfect blend of top-class wildlife safari and stunning beaches. This African nation is officially visa-free but travelers need to acquire a mandatory Electronic Travel Authorization (eTA). Everyone, irrespective of age requires the stated travel authorization.
This article guides an applicant on how to apply for a Kenya tourist visa.
What to Gather Before You Apply for a Kenya Visa Online?
Applicants must be aware of the needed documents before starting the application procedure. Let’s know the pre-application checklist.
Passport Requirements
Having a valid passport is mandatory while applying for a Kenya eTA. Check that your passport has a validity of at least six months from the date of your travel. Also, the document needs to have two blank pages for the physical entry stamp.
Required Digital Files
Before you start the application procedure, keep a high-quality scan of your passport’s bio page. This needs to be uploaded during the application process.
You need to have a recent passport-style photo. The photo should be front-facing, have a plain background, and offering a neutral expression. The digital files are to be prepared in PDF or JPEG format.
Travel Logistics
Keep a confirmed flight itinerary with you as it needs to be uploaded during the application process. This includes your travel dates and your arrival flight number.
Travelers need to possess the proof of accommodation booking as it is required when you apply for Kenya visa. This can be hotel vouchers or an invitation letter if staying with a family.
Health Certificates
If you are coming from countries with a risk of yellow fever transmission, you need an International Certificate of Vaccination or Prophylaxis (ICVP) for Yellow Fever. You can obtain it from any government-authorized vaccination center at least 10 days before travel.
See also: 8 Skin Symptoms That Might Mean It’s Time to Visit a Dermatologue Autour de Moi
What are the Major Steps to Apply for a Kenya Tourist Visa?
Are you traveling to Kenya for sightseeing? If so, know the application process of Kenya eTA.
Step 1: Select the Right Platform and Register
Applicants must apply for a Kenya visa from a trusted site that is approved by the Kenyan government. Use a valid email ID to register. This lets you track your eTA status. Don’t use any third-party website for application.
Step 2: Complete the Application Form
Start filling with your personal details in the application form, like name, DOB, nationality, etc. this is followed by putting your passport data and travel plans. Check everything twice to ensure that you haven’t done any mistake.
Step 3: Upload Documents
Once you are done with filling the application form, you need to upload the needed documents. The required ones are passport’s bio page, photo, and travel details. Ensure that you have followed the approved file types and sizes.
Step 4: Complete the Customs and Health Declarations
After you finish uploading the documents, you need to fill a custom and health declarations. All you need to do is to answer some basic health, legal, and custom check questions.
Step 5: Pay the Kenya eTA Fee
Your Kenya visa online application is not complete until you pay the application fee. Pay the required possessing fee after uploading the documents. You can pay the fee via a valid debit or a credit card.
Step 6: Submit the eTA Application
You can submit the application after paying the processing fee. Check everything once before you click on the ‘Submit’ button.
What Travelers Need to Keep in Mind After Submitting the eTA Application?
Here are the priorities travelers need to acknowledge after submitting the eTA application.
Processing Time: The standard processing duration of Kenya eTA is up to 72 hours (3 business days). Keep track of your application status in the meantime.
The Validity Window: The validity of an issued eTA is 90 days from the date of issue. Try to apply at least 2 to 3 weeks in advance to avoid last-moment rush.
After Approval Measures: Once the eTA is mailed to you, download the PDF file and keep it in your smartphone. Keep a hard copy with you to show the airline at check-in and border control.
To Conclude
The Kenya eTA application process comprises six steps, like register in the site, fill in the application form, document upload, etc. Selecting the right portal ensures that half the work is done.
Ready to Apply for a Kenya Tourist Visa?
Find a reliable e-Visa application portal. Apply for Kenya eTA and obtain it. Start making plans for a memorable trip to this popular African destination.
