Kenya Drops eTA Fee for South Africa, Ethiopia & More!

In a pioneering move, Kenya's Immigration and Citizen Services have revolutionised its digital entry system for international guests. This initiative has notably lifted the $30 Electronic Travel Authorization (eTA) fee for nationals from Ethiopia, South Africa, and an additional quartet of countries.

Fee Waiver Beneficiaries

• Effective Date: Since February 15
• Countries Enjoying Exemption: Comoros, Congo-Brazzaville, Eritrea, Mozambique, Ethiopia, South Africa, and San Marino
• Basis of Exemption: Visa abolition or reciprocal visa waiver agreements

The Genesis of eTA and Its Reception

Launched at the year's outset, the Kenya eTA aimed to streamline entry into Kenya but faced criticism over its fee, perceived by detractors as a covert visa expense. This exemption underscores Kenya's allegiance to nurturing diplomatic relations, particularly with Ethiopia—a country linked with Kenya through a visa-free bond lasting over fifty years.

Commendations and Policy Adjustments

The adjustment has garnered praise, especially from the Ethiopian Ambassador, for Kenya's decision to abolish the eTA fee for Ethiopians, maintaining the requirement for online application submission before travel to Kenya.

Enhancing the eTA System: Ongoing Consultations

• Objective: To refine the eTA's functionality, making it more user-friendly and responsive to feedback
• New Validity Period: eTA approvals now valid for 90 days from issuance, promoting greater travel flexibility

Challenges and Flexibility Concerns

Despite improvements, the eTA's fixed nature remains challenging for some, especially those needing last-minute travel adjustments or facing emergencies.

Exemptions for East African Community Members

• Travel Requirements: Passport or national ID suffices, reflecting Kenya's intent to simplify travel procedures for regional partners and enhance international camaraderie.

This comprehensive approach to updating Kenya's digital visitor registration underscores a commitment to facilitating travel and strengthening diplomatic ties across borders.

How to apply for Kenya eTA

There are 3 steps to filling out the Kenya ETA application online, as mentioned below:

• Step 1: Go to the website to get the ETA and register.

• Step 2: Complete the gaps: Be ready to respond to inquiries concerning your journey, personal information, and travel documents, such as your passport number and expiry date, gender and birth date, etc.

• Step 3: Wait after paying the fee, if any. Processing time may take 3 to 5 business days but occasionally takes longer. The ETA is a processing that can be completed more quickly for a fee.

What are the requirements for Kenya's ETA?

On the website fill-up form, you have to give the following details:

General & Nationality details

• Your passport-type photo 
• Your personal information with contact, address and gender details

• Emails ID
• Passport, passport number and photo of passport Bio data page
• Visa Type
• Onward ticket

Document details

• You must give your passport, One ID proof for contact and address details.
• Airline
• Financial Documents (based on your citizenship)
• Flight Number
• Departure date with the information on the port of arrival and the country you visiting. 
• Any hotel reservation details.

Are there any additional charges for Kenya eTA?

The Kenya eTA (Electronic Travel Authorization) no longer includes a visa cost of $30 for its application. However, applicants are required to pay an additional service fee of $45. This fee is imposed by the visa application service, consulate, or embassy for processing the eTA application.

It's important to note that the service fee is separate from the visa cost and covers the administrative processing of the application.

Conclusion

Kenya's removal of the Visa cost $30 eTA fee for travellers from Ethiopia, South Africa, and five other nations marks a significant step in enhancing international travel and relations. Effective February 15, this policy change reflects Kenya's dedication to creating a friendly atmosphere and encouraging ease of movement. 

By adjusting the eTA system to extend its validity to 90 days and simplifying travel for East African Community members, Kenya demonstrates flexibility and responsiveness to travellers' needs. This initiative benefits visitors from exempted countries and strengthens Kenya's diplomatic ties, particularly with Ethiopia, showcasing a digital travel facilitation model emphasising convenience and international cooperation.

FAQS

What are the 6 countries exempt from the Kenya eTA fee?

In addition to South Africa, the exemption has been extended to passport holders from five other African states - Ethiopia, Eritrea, Congo-Brazzaville, Comoros and San Marino, Europe's third-smallest nation, is the only other country on the exemption list.

Do I still need to apply for an eTA if I'm exempt from the fee?

Yes, even if you are exempt from the fee, you must apply for an eTA online before travelling to Kenya. The application process remains unchanged, but you won't be charged the $30 fee upon submission.

What are the visa requirements for other nationalities?

Visa requirements for other nationalities include:

• You must give your passport, One ID proof for contact and address details.
• Airline
• Financial Documents (based on your citizenship)
• Flight Number
• Departure date with the information on the port of arrival and the country you visiting. 
• Any hotel reservation details.

How long is the visa-free stay period?

Citizens from exempt countries can stay visa-free in Kenya for up to 90 days, provided they have a valid eTA. However, it's always recommended to double-check the specific regulations for your country and purpose of travel.

Can I modify my eTA after applying?

Limited modifications are possible, but additional charges may apply. Contact the eTA support team for details.