Kenya
Moderate — regularly checked by airlinesKenya welcomed approximately 2 million international tourists in 2023. The country is the top safari destination in East Africa. The average budget is 30 to 60 EUR per day, excluding safaris (safaris cost 150-400 EUR per day).
Kenya requires proof of return or onward travel for all foreign visitors entering the country. Kenyan immigration checks this document on arrival at all international entry points, and airlines request it before boarding at the check-in counter. Nairobi, Mombasa, and the Masai Mara attract approximately 2 million international tourists per year. Kenya is the premier gateway to East Africa for safaris, wildlife, and Indian Ocean beaches.
Updated on March 2026
Visa Requirements
Kenya has replaced its traditional visa system with the eTA (Electronic Travel Authorization), mandatory for most visitors at a cost of approximately 30 USD for a 90-day single-entry stay. Since May 2025, some African nationals are exempt from the eTA. Applications are completed online at etakenya.go.ke before departure. A return ticket is required to obtain the eTA.
| Visa Type | Duration | Cost |
|---|---|---|
| eTA (Electronic Travel Authorization) | 90 days (single entry) | Approximately 28 EUR (30 USD)~28 EUR |
| Transit eTA | 72 hours | Approximately 18 EUR (20 USD)~18 EUR |
Transit Rules
Transiting through Nairobi's Jomo Kenyatta Airport (NBO) requires a confirmed ticket to your final destination. Transit checks are strict and the onward ticket is systematically verified. A transit eTA may be required depending on your nationality.
Documents Required
- Passport valid at least 6 months beyond arrival date in Kenya
- Approved eTA printed or in digital format
- Return or onward ticket mandatory
- Proof of accommodation (hotel booking, lodge, or safari itinerary)
- Yellow fever vaccination certificate (mandatory if arriving from an endemic country)
- Proof of sufficient financial means (30-60 EUR per day recommended)
Practical tip
The Kenyan eTA must be obtained online before departure at etakenya.go.ke. You will need to provide your return ticket details in the application form. A Volward onward ticket allows you to fill this field with verifiable information. Processing takes 3 to 5 business days.
Order an onward ticket for Kenya
Frequently Asked Questions
Do I need an onward ticket to enter Kenya?▾
Yes, it is mandatory. Kenyan immigration requires proof of onward travel for all foreign visitors entering the country. The return ticket details are also required when completing the online eTA application form. Airlines verify this document at the check-in counter before boarding.
How does the Kenyan eTA work?▾
The eTA (Electronic Travel Authorization) has replaced the old Kenyan visa system. The application is completed online at etakenya.go.ke, costs approximately 30 USD, and processing takes 3 to 5 business days. You must provide a return ticket, proof of accommodation, and a digital photo.
How long can I stay in Kenya with an eTA?▾
The standard eTA allows a 90-day single-entry stay in Kenya. If you leave Kenya and wish to return, you must obtain a new eTA before re-entering the country. No extension is possible on-site for a tourist eTA. For longer stays, a work permit or special visa must be obtained from Kenyan immigration authorities.
Are African nationals exempt from the Kenyan eTA?▾
Since May 2025, Kenya has exempted nationals of certain African Union countries from the eTA. Citizens of countries such as Rwanda, Uganda, and Tanzania (East African Community) do not need an eTA. Other African nationals should check on etakenya.go.ke.
Is the yellow fever vaccine mandatory for Kenya?▾
A yellow fever vaccination certificate is mandatory if you arrive from an endemic country (most West and Central African countries). For travelers arriving directly from Europe or North America, it is not mandatory but remains recommended by the WHO.
Are Kenyan airlines strict about return tickets?▾
Kenya Airways, Jambojet, and all airlines operating flights to Kenya verify return tickets at the check-in counter. European carriers (KLM, British Airways, Lufthansa) and Middle Eastern airlines (Emirates, Qatar Airways) are equally strict on this point.
Can I combine a Kenya safari with a stay in Zanzibar?▾
Yes, but you will need separate tickets and travel documents for each country. Kenya and Tanzania (Zanzibar) are separate countries with different immigration rules and separate eTA or visa requirements. Your Volward onward ticket for Kenya covers your entry, and a confirmed flight to Zanzibar serves as your proof of exit from Kenya.
Do Nairobi and Mombasa have different immigration checks?▾
Checks are similar at both airports, but Nairobi Jomo Kenyatta (NBO) is the main international entry point and queues can be considerably longer during peak arrival times. Mombasa Moi International Airport (MBA) primarily receives European charter flights and seasonal traffic, and immigration checks are generally faster.
