Visas & entry
Kenya: eTA and the new insurance rule
Apply for an eTA online before you travel, at least 2 weeks ahead. New from 5 October 2026: most visitors staying under 12 months must also buy Kenyan Government travel health insurance, which is done during the eTA application.
- No visa needed
- Apply online before you go
- Visa on arrival
- Visa in advance
The insurance rule is new and applies even if you have your own UK travel insurance, so keep yours too, for repatriation. A yellow fever certificate is needed if you're arriving from a country with yellow fever risk.
What you need
- eTAApply online before you go
Online, at least 2 weeks before travel.
- Kenyan health insuranceApply online before you go
Bought during the eTA application, from 5 October 2026.
- Yellow fever certificateVisa on arrival
Only if arriving from a yellow fever risk country.
How to apply for the eTA
- Apply on the official Kenyan eTA site at least a couple of weeks before travel.
- Upload your passport, a photo, flight details and hotel bookings.
- Infants and children need their own eTA.
- Beware of agent sites charging extra fees.
Safari extras
If you're combining Kenya with Tanzania, Uganda or Rwanda, check each country's rules separately. Some lodges and parks ask for your passport details in advance for park permits. Keep copies of your eTA approval and insurance documents on your phone.
Before you go
- Passport: 6 months' validity and 2 blank pages.
- Emergency number: 999 or 112.
Official advice: FCDO entry requirements for Kenya
Stay and do
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