Kenya Visa for South African Citizens 2026 — eTA Guide

Do South African Citizens Need a Visa for Kenya?

Yes. South African citizens require an electronic Travel Authorisation (eTA) to enter Kenya, regardless of the length or purpose of stay. This is a mandatory pre-arrival digital authorization issued by Kenya's Directorate of Immigration Services.[1] Unlike traditional visas, the eTA is applied for entirely online and approval is sent by email. You must print a copy and carry it with your passport at the port of entry.[2]

Quick Facts at a Glance

Requirement	Details
Visa Type	Electronic Travel Authorisation (eTA)
Cost	$51 USD (government fee)
Processing Time	3 business days (standard); expedited options available
Validity	90 days from date of issue
Maximum Stay	Up to 90 days per visit
Application Portal	etakenya.go.ke (official government site)
Required for	All South African citizens, including children and infants

Visa Types Available for South African Citizens

Kenya offers several eTA categories. For most South African tourists and business travellers, the Single Entry Tourist or Business eTA is appropriate.[3] Here are the main types:

• Single Entry eTA (Tourist or Business): For one-time entry to Kenya for sightseeing or short-term business. Valid for 90 days; costs $51 USD.[3]
• Transit eTA: For travellers passing through Kenya to another destination. Valid for 72 hours maximum; costs $21 USD.[3]
• Multiple Entry Visa: For frequent business travellers; valid 6–12 months; costs $101 USD (available through eCitizen portal, not the standard eTA site).[3]
• East Africa Tourist Visa: Multiple-entry authorization valid for 90 days across Kenya, Rwanda, and Uganda; costs $101 USD.[3]

All South African citizens—including children and infants—must apply individually; there is no group exemption.[1]

Step-by-Step Application Process

Step 1: Gather Required Documents

Before starting your application, prepare the following:

• Valid passport: Must be valid for at least 6 months beyond your planned arrival date in Kenya, with at least one blank page.[1]
• Passport biographical page scan: A clear, colour scan of the page showing your photo, personal details, and signature.[2]
• Recent passport-style photograph: Colour photo against a plain background, selfies accepted if lighting is even and face unobstructed.[2]
• Email address and phone number: For correspondence and approval notification.[1]
• Travel itinerary: Dates of arrival and departure.[1]
• Accommodation booking confirmation: Hotel reservation or invitation letter from a host in Kenya.[1]
• Payment method: International credit or debit card for the $51 USD fee.[1]

Additional documents by purpose of visit:

• For business visitors: Invitation letter from the Kenyan company or organization on official letterhead, plus copy of company registration.[2]
• For medical travellers: Letter or appointment confirmation from the referring doctor or hospital.[1]
• For conference attendees: Conference invitation or participation letter.[1]
• For family visits: Invitation letter from the family member in Kenya.[2]

Step 2: Visit the Official Portal

Navigate to the official Kenya eTA portal at etakenya.go.ke.[1] This is the only legitimate government site for eTA applications. Avoid third-party visa agencies, which charge additional service fees on top of the government fee.

Step 3: Complete the Online Application Form

Create an account and fill in the application form with:

• Full name (as it appears in your passport)
• Passport number and issue/expiry dates
• Date of birth
• Nationality (South Africa)
• Purpose of visit (tourism, business, transit, etc.)
• Intended dates of arrival and departure
• Accommodation address in Kenya
• Contact details (email, phone)

Double-check all entries before submission; errors can cause delays or rejection.[2]

Step 4: Upload Supporting Documents

Submit clear, legible scans of:

• Passport biographical page (colour, uncropped, no glare)
• Recent passport-style photograph
• Any additional documents relevant to your visit purpose

All documents must be in PDF, JPG, or PNG format and meet the specified file size limits shown on the portal.

Step 5: Pay the Application Fee

The standard eTA fee for South African citizens is $51 USD.[3] Payment is processed via international credit or debit card. The fee is non-refundable, even if your application is rejected or you decide not to travel.[4] Keep your payment receipt as proof of transaction.

Step 6: Receive and Print Your Approval

Once approved, you will receive an email with your eTA approval, typically within 3 business days.[4] Download the PDF and print a physical copy to carry with your passport. Immigration officers at Kenyan ports of entry will ask to see both your passport and the printed eTA.[2]

Fees & Payment Details

Fee Type	Amount (USD)	Notes
Single Entry eTA (Tourist/Business)	$51	Standard processing; valid 90 days
Transit eTA	$21	For passing through Kenya only; 72-hour validity
Multiple Entry Visa (6–12 months)	$101	Applied via eCitizen portal; for frequent visitors
East Africa Tourist Visa	$101	Valid across Kenya, Rwanda, Uganda; 90 days
Expedited Processing (add-on)	+$100	Immediate approval; available on select visa types

Payment Methods: International credit cards (Visa, Mastercard), debit cards, and other online payment methods accepted via the official portal.[1]

Refund Policy: All fees are non-refundable once payment is processed, regardless of application outcome or travel cancellation.[4]

Processing Times & Visa Validity

Standard Processing

Normal eTA applications are processed within 3 business days (72 hours) from submission.[4] During peak safari season (July–September and December–January), processing may take longer due to system load. Plan ahead and apply at least 2 weeks before your intended travel date.[2]

Expedited Processing

If you need faster approval, expedited processing is available:

• Urgent (24-hour turnaround): Additional $100 USD fee.[4]
• Super Urgent (12-hour turnaround): Additional fee applies; confirm current rate on the portal.[4]

Validity & Duration of Stay

The eTA is valid for 90 days from the date of issue, not from your arrival date.[1] You must enter Kenya within this 90-day window. Once you arrive, the duration of your actual stay in Kenya is determined by the immigration officer at the port of entry and is typically granted for up to 90 days for tourism or business purposes.[1] Your eTA does not automatically grant 90 days of stay; the immigration officer may grant fewer days based on your circumstances.

What to Expect at Immigration on Arrival

Documents to Present

When you arrive at a Kenyan port of entry (Jomo Kenyatta International Airport in Nairobi, Mombasa International Airport, or land borders), have ready:

• Printed eTA approval (not just a digital copy on your phone)
• Valid passport
• Return or onward flight ticket
• Proof of accommodation (hotel booking or invitation letter)
• Health declaration form (if required at entry)

Health & Vaccination Requirements

Kenya does not mandate COVID-19 vaccination for entry. However, unvaccinated travellers may be asked to present a negative COVID-19 PCR test conducted within 72 hours of departure, or to take a rapid antigen test on arrival (cost: $30 USD).[2] Positive test results may require a PCR confirmation at a cost of $50 USD. Children under 5 are exempt from these requirements.[2]

If arriving from yellow fever endemic regions (much of sub-Saharan Africa), you may be required to present a yellow fever vaccination certificate.[2] Consult your doctor and check Kenya's current health requirements before departure.

Customs & Immigration Processing

Immigration officers will:

• Scan your passport and eTA
• Ask about the purpose and duration of your stay
• Verify accommodation and return travel details
• Stamp your passport with the approved stay duration (often 90 days for tourists)

eTA holders typically use designated faster-processing lanes at major airports, reducing wait times compared to visa-on-arrival queues (which are no longer available).[2]

Transit, Extensions & Overstays

Transit Travel

If you are passing through Kenya to reach another destination (e.g., Kenya to Tanzania, Uganda, or Ethiopia), apply for a Transit eTA. This is valid for 72 hours and costs $21 USD.[3] You do not need a transit visa if your onward flight departs within the same calendar day.

Extending Your Stay

If you wish to extend your stay beyond the duration granted at arrival, you must apply for an extension at the Immigration Office in Kenya before your current authorization expires. Extensions are not guaranteed and may be refused. Plan your itinerary carefully and allow buffer time if extension is a possibility. Contact the Directorate of Immigration Services (email: info@immigration.go.ke; phone: +254 20 2222022) for extension procedures and requirements.[5]

Overstaying

Do not overstay your permitted duration. Remaining in Kenya beyond your approved date can result in:

• Fines (amounts vary)
• Deportation
• Entry bans to Kenya
• Complications with future visa applications to Kenya or other countries

If you realize you will overstay, contact immigration immediately to explore extension or departure options.

Common Mistakes & Reasons for Rejection

Application Errors

• Passport validity: Submitting a passport with less than 6 months validity remaining. Check your expiry date before applying.[1]
• Photo specifications: Uploading blurry, poorly lit, or cropped photos. Ensure even lighting, plain background, and full face visibility.[2]
• Mismatched information: Inconsistencies between your passport and application form (e.g., spelling of name, date of birth). Double-check before submitting.[2]
• Incomplete documents: Missing accommodation proof, return flight ticket, or contact details. Review the checklist before hitting submit.[1]
• Expired supporting documents: Using hotel bookings or invitation letters dated months in the past. Ensure all documents are current and relevant to your travel dates.[2]

Reasons for Rejection

• Security concerns: Criminal history, immigration violations, or security flags in your background may result in denial. Transparency on application forms is essential.
• Suspicious activity: Frequent visa applications in short timeframes or inconsistent travel patterns may trigger additional scrutiny.
• Insufficient funds: If your bank statements show very low balances, immigration may question your ability to support yourself in Kenya.
• No accommodation plan: Lack of confirmed hotel booking or host invitation can result in rejection.

If rejected: The government does not automatically provide a detailed reason. You may submit a new application with corrected or additional documentation, but this will be treated as a fresh application with a new fee. Some third-party visa services offer appeal support, though success rates vary.

Important Updates & Recent Changes (2025–2026)

African Visa-Free Expansion

In May 2025, Kenya announced a significant policy shift: citizens of all African Union member states are now exempt from the eTA requirement for stays up to 90 days, with the exception of Libya and Somalia (due to security concerns).[6] However, South Africa is not listed in the official exemption category on the current government portal as of July 2026, meaning South African citizens still require an eTA.[1] This discrepancy may reflect a lag in portal updates. Always confirm the current requirement with the official etakenya.go.ke portal before applying.

Platform Migration

The eTA system migrated from the old evisa.go.ke platform to the new etakenya.go.ke portal effective January 5, 2024.[2] Only the new portal is operational; do not use legacy URLs.

Frequently Asked Questions

Do South African citizens need a visa for Kenya?

Yes. South African citizens require an electronic Travel Authorisation (eTA) issued by Kenya's immigration authorities before entry.[1] The eTA is a mandatory pre-arrival digital authorization, not a traditional visa, but it serves the same legal purpose. All South African travellers, regardless of age or visit purpose, must obtain one.[1]

How long does it take to get a Kenya eTA for South African citizens?

Standard processing takes 3 business days (72 hours).[4] Expedited options are available: urgent processing (24 hours) costs an additional $100 USD, and super-urgent options (12 hours) are also available at additional cost.[4] Apply at least 2 weeks in advance during peak season to avoid delays.[2]

How much does a Kenya eTA cost for South African citizens?

A single-entry eTA (tourist or business) costs $51 USD.[3] A transit eTA costs $21 USD, and a multiple-entry visa (6–12 months) costs $101 USD.[3] These are government fees; third-party visa agencies may charge additional service fees on top of the official cost.[1]

Can I apply for a Kenya eTA on arrival?

No. Kenya no longer issues visas on arrival. All eTA applications must be completed before you depart South Africa.[1] The application is entirely online via etakenya.go.ke and takes 3 business days minimum.[4] Plan accordingly and apply well in advance.

What is the validity of a Kenya eTA?

The eTA is valid for 90 days from the date of issue.[1] You must enter Kenya within this 90-day window. Once you arrive, the immigration officer at the port of entry determines the length of your actual stay, which is typically up to 90 days for tourism or business but may be less depending on your circumstances.[1]

Do children and infants need a Kenya eTA?

Yes. All individuals, including infants and children, must have their own eTA approval.[4] There is no family or group exemption. However, children under 16 years old accompanying their parents may be exempted from visa fees under certain older visa categories, though this does not apply to the current eTA system—all applicants pay the full fee.[2]

Can I extend my Kenya eTA while in Kenya?

The eTA itself cannot be extended. However, you may apply for a stay extension at the Directorate of Immigration Services office in Kenya before your current authorization expires. Extensions are not guaranteed and require a formal application.[5] It is safer to plan your itinerary to fit within your initial approved stay duration.

What happens if I overstay my Kenya eTA?

Overstaying is a serious immigration violation that can result in fines, deportation, entry bans to Kenya, and complications with future visa applications to Kenya and other countries. If you realize you will exceed your approved stay, contact the immigration office immediately to discuss options.[5]

Is a yellow fever vaccination required for Kenya?

Yellow fever vaccination is not mandatory for entry to Kenya. However, if you are arriving from a yellow fever endemic country (most of sub-Saharan Africa), you may be required to present a valid yellow fever vaccination certificate at the port of entry.[2] Check Kenya's current health requirements and consult your doctor before travelling.

Can I use a digital copy of my eTA on my phone at immigration?

No. You must print a physical copy of your eTA approval and carry it with your passport.[2] Immigration officers will not accept digital-only versions. Mobile devices can fail or run out of battery; a printed PDF ensures smooth processing at the border.[2]

What if my Kenya eTA application is rejected?

The government does not automatically provide a detailed rejection reason. You may submit a new application with corrected or additional documentation, but this is treated as a fresh application with a new $51 USD fee.[4] If you believe the rejection was in error, contact the Directorate of Immigration Services (etakenya@immigration.go.ke) to inquire about the reason and possible remedies.[5]

Is the eTA the same as a visa?

The eTA (electronic Travel Authorisation) is a digital authorization that has replaced the traditional visa for most nationalities entering Kenya.[1] While the terminology differs, it serves the same legal and regulatory function: it is mandatory pre-arrival clearance to enter Kenya. You must obtain it before departure, just as with a traditional visa.[1]

Can I apply for a Kenya eTA from South Africa, or do I need to apply from elsewhere?

You can apply from anywhere with internet access, including South Africa. The application is entirely online via etakenya.go.ke.[1] There is no requirement to apply from a specific location. You do not need to visit a Kenyan embassy or consulate; the eTA is issued purely through the online portal.[1]

Planning Your Kenya Safari

Once your eTA is approved, you are ready to book your safari. South African travellers can explore how safari tourism funds conservation in Kenya and compare affordable safari packages on SafariFind, where you can find vetted operators and lodges across Kenya's premier wildlife destinations. Popular parks for South African visitors include the Maasai Mara, Amboseli, Tsavo, and the Great Rift Valley. Understanding wildlife corridors and habitats in Kenya can enhance your safari experience and support your choice of responsible operators.

Verification & Official Contacts

Last checked July 2026 — always confirm with official sources before travelling.

For the most current eTA information, visa fees, and requirements, visit:

• Official Kenya eTA Portal: etakenya.go.ke
• Directorate of Immigration Services: immigration.go.ke
• Email: etakenya@immigration.go.ke
• Phone: +254 110-922062, +254 110-922063, +254 110-922064
• Embassy of Kenya – South Africa (Pretoria): +27 (12) 426-2249

Requirements and fees change periodically. This article is informational only and not legal advice. Verify all details on the official government portal before submitting your application.

Frequently Asked Questions

Do South African citizens need a visa for Kenya?

Yes. South African citizens require an electronic Travel Authorisation (eTA) issued by Kenya's immigration authorities before entry.[1] The eTA is a mandatory pre-arrival digital authorization, not a traditional visa, but it serves the same legal purpose. All South African travellers, regardless of age or visit purpose, must obtain one.

How long does it take to get a Kenya eTA for South African citizens?

Standard processing takes 3 business days (72 hours).[4] Expedited options are available: urgent processing (24 hours) costs an additional $100 USD.[4] Apply at least 2 weeks in advance during peak season to avoid delays.

How much does a Kenya eTA cost for South African citizens?

A single-entry eTA (tourist or business) costs $51 USD.[3] A transit eTA costs $21 USD, and a multiple-entry visa costs $101 USD.[3] These are government fees; third-party visa agencies may charge additional service fees.

Can I apply for a Kenya eTA on arrival?

No. Kenya no longer issues visas on arrival. All eTA applications must be completed before you depart South Africa via the online portal etakenya.go.ke.[1] The process takes a minimum of 3 business days, so plan ahead.

What is the validity of a Kenya eTA?

The eTA is valid for 90 days from the date of issue.[1] You must enter Kenya within this 90-day window. Once you arrive, the immigration officer determines the length of your actual stay, which is typically up to 90 days for tourism or business.

Do children and infants need a Kenya eTA?

Yes. All individuals, including infants and children, must have their own eTA approval.[4] There is no family or group exemption, and all applicants pay the full $51 USD fee.

What documents do I need for a Kenya eTA application?

You will need a valid passport (minimum 6 months validity with at least one blank page), a colour scan of your passport biographical page, a recent passport-style photograph, your email address and phone number, travel itinerary, accommodation booking confirmation, and a payment method.[1] Additional documents may be required depending on your visit purpose (e.g., business invitation letter, medical appointment confirmation).

Is a yellow fever vaccination required for Kenya?

Yellow fever vaccination is not mandatory for entry. However, if you are arriving from a yellow fever endemic country (most of sub-Saharan Africa), you may be required to present a valid yellow fever vaccination certificate at the port of entry.[2] Consult your doctor before travelling.

Can I use a digital copy of my eTA on my phone at immigration?

No. You must print a physical copy of your eTA approval and carry it with your passport.[2] Immigration officers will not accept digital-only versions. A printed PDF ensures smooth processing at the border.

What happens if I overstay my Kenya eTA?

Overstaying is a serious immigration violation that can result in fines, deportation, entry bans, and complications with future visa applications. If you realize you will exceed your approved stay, contact the immigration office immediately.[5]

Can I extend my Kenya eTA while in Kenya?

The eTA itself cannot be extended. However, you may apply for a stay extension at the Directorate of Immigration Services office in Kenya before your current authorization expires, though extensions are not guaranteed.[5]

What if my Kenya eTA application is rejected?

The government does not automatically provide a detailed rejection reason. You may submit a new application with corrected documentation, but this is treated as a fresh application with a new $51 USD fee.[4] Contact etakenya@immigration.go.ke to inquire about the reason.