Kenya draws US travelers for safari circuits out of Nairobi and coastal stays on the Swahili coast. Before you book those legs, sort entry: Kenya does not issue a visa to US passport holders, it requires an Electronic Travel Authorisation (eTA) approved before you fly.
The standard eTA costs $30, but American nationals can instead buy a 5-year multiple-entry eTA for $185, useful if you plan more than one Kenya trip in that window.
What to sort before you fly to Kenya
- US passport holders need an eTA, not a visa, approved before departure.
- Standard eTA costs $30.
- A 5-year multiple-entry eTA for US nationals costs $185.
- Your passport needs at least 6 months validity and one blank page.
- Apply and get approval before you travel; there is no on-arrival option described here.
The eTA is not a visa
Kenya’s entry requirement for US passport holders is an eTA, a travel authorisation you secure online before departure, not a visa stamped or issued at an embassy. Apply through the official eTA eligibility portal and get approval in hand before you board.
Check eligibility and choose your eTA type
Confirm the standard eTA versus the 5-year multiple-entry eTA for US nationals through the official portal.
Submit the application and pay the fee
Pay $30 for the standard eTA or $185 for the 5-year multiple-entry eTA.
Get approval before you fly
Wait for confirmation of your eTA; keep it accessible for arrival in Kenya.
What Kenya immigration checks
- Passport valid 6+ months – Your passport needs at least 6 months validity beyond entry, plus one blank page.
- Approved eTA – Carry your eTA approval, digital or printed, for arrival.
Kenya eTA costs
More for your Kenya trip: Best time to visit · Packing list · Vaccinations · Travel insurance · Money and currency
Check your visa before you book
Confirm the current rules for your passport, then sort the rest of the trip.
Kenya eTA questions
1Is the Kenya eTA the same as a visa?
No. Kenya’s official sources describe it as an Electronic Travel Authorisation, a separate category from a visa, though it still needs to be approved before you travel.
2How much does the Kenya eTA cost?
The standard eTA is $30. US nationals can instead choose a 5-year multiple-entry eTA for $185, which covers repeat trips within that period.
3Does my passport need extra validity for Kenya?
Yes, your passport generally needs at least 6 months validity beyond your entry date and one blank page.
4Can I apply for the Kenya eTA on arrival?
The facts here describe applying and getting approval before travel; there is no on-arrival application covered.
5Where do I apply for the Kenya eTA?
Apply through the official eTA portal linked in this guide, where eligibility and fees are listed for US passport holders.