- +971- 42 35 4481
- +971 58 987 0028
- info@gulliverholidays.com
Kenya E-Visa
Kenya e-Visa from UAE
Your Ultimate Guide for seamless Travel in 2025
Dreaming of an unforgettable safari in the Masai Mara, relaxing on the pristine beaches of Mombasa, or exploring the vibrant culture of Nairobi? For residents of the UAE, securing a Kenya e-Visa (now primarily an eTA) is the essential first step towards your East African adventure. This ultimate guide provides comprehensive, up-to-date information on the Kenya eTA application process from the UAE, ensuring a smooth and hassle-free journey.
Why is a Kenya eTA Required for UAE Residents?
As of January 2024, Kenya transitioned to a mandatory Electronic Travel Authorization (eTA) system, replacing the traditional e-Visa for most travelers. This digital system enhances efficiency and security, making travel preparations more convenient for visitors from the UAE.
Key Benefits of the Kenya eTA:
- Online Application: Apply conveniently from anywhere in Dubai, Abu Dhabi, or any other Emirate with an internet connection.
- Faster Processing: Generally quicker than traditional visa applications, streamlining your pre-travel plans.
- Paperless System: Receive your approved eTA directly via email.
- Wider Accessibility: Available for most nationalities residing in the UAE (check specific exemptions below).
Visa Fees
Service
Service Charges
Visa charges
AED 375
What’s Included?
Includes
Visa fees
Filling application form
Travel itinerary
.
Who Needs a Kenya eTA from UAE?
Most foreign nationals holding a UAE Residence Visa, including popular expat communities like Indian, Pakistani, and Filipino passport holders, are required to obtain an eTA to enter Kenya.
Important Update for UAE Citizens (Emirati Passport Holders):
As of early 2025, UAE citizens are generally exempt from the Kenya eTA requirement. They typically receive visa-free entry upon arrival, allowing a stay of up to 90 days, provided their passport is valid for at least six months. However, it is crucial to always verify the latest regulations directly with the official Kenyan eTA portal or the Embassy closer to your travel date, as policies can change.
Exemptions from Kenya eTA Application:
- Kenyan citizens
- Holders of Kenya Permanent Residence, valid Work Permits, and Passes
- Holders of valid UN Conventional Travel Documents issued by the Government of Kenya
- Members of diplomatic missions and international organizations accredited to Kenya
- Citizens of East African Community (EAC) Partner States (e.g., Burundi, DRC, Rwanda, South Sudan, Tanzania, Uganda)
Types of Kenya eTA (and e-Visa if applicable) for UAE Residents
While the eTA is now the primary entry document, it covers various travel purposes. Here are the common categories relevant to UAE residents:
- Single Entry Tourist eTA: Ideal for a single visit, typically valid for up to 90 days from the date of issue, allowing a maximum stay of 90 days. This is the most common for Kenya holidays from UAE.
- Transit eTA: For travelers transiting through Kenya who intend to leave the airport for a short period (e.g., up to 72 hours). Requires proof of onward travel.
- Business eTA: For short-term business activities, meetings, or conferences.
- East Africa Tourist Visa (EATV): A special visa (not an eTA) that allows multiple entries within Kenya, Uganda, and Rwanda for tourism purposes. You must enter the country that issued the EATV first. If you have an EATV, you do not need a separate Kenya eTA.
Required Documents
To ensure a swift application process for your Kenya eTA from UAE, prepare the following digital documents for online upload:
Passport Copy – Clear scan of the biodata page (valid for 6+ months, 2 blank pages).
Passport Photo – Recent color photo (white background, no selfies).
UAE Residence Visa/Emirates ID – Valid for at least 6 months.
Return Flight Ticket – Confirmed round-trip booking.
Accommodation Proof – Hotel bookings or host invitation (with contact details).
Recommended:
Proof of Funds (bank statements).
Additional Documents (as applicable):
- For Business eTA: Invitation letter from the Kenyan company, copy of the company’s registration in Kenya.
- For Family Visit eTA: Invitation letter from your family/host, and a copy of their Kenyan identity card, passport, alien card, or entry permit.
- For Indian, Pakistani, or Filipino Residents in UAE: An employment/sponsorship letter from your UAE employer/sponsor might be requested.
Kenya eTA Processing Time from UAE
The standard Kenya eTA processing time is approximately 3 business days. To avoid delays, travelers from the UAE are advised to apply at least 72 hours before departure. For added safety, consider applying 1–2 weeks in advance.
Expedited Kenya eTA:
Some official channels and licensed UAE agencies offer fast-track eTA services (under 72 hours) for an additional fee. Check availability on the official portal: www.etakenya.go.ke.
Delays May Occur Due To:
Incomplete or incorrect applications
Public holidays in Kenya or the UAE
Extra security or document checks
Apply early for a smooth and stress-free entry to Kenya.
Step-by-Step Guide:
Register an Account
- Use a valid email (approvals sent here).
- Click Apply Now → New Applicant.
Select eTA Type
- Choose: Tourist (Single Entry), Business, or Family Visit.
Complete the Application
- Personal Details: Full name (matching passport), nationality, UAE address.
- Passport Data: Number, issue/expiry dates.
- Travel Plans:
- Flight numbers & dates (round-trip mandatory).
- Hotel bookings OR host’s full address/contact.
Upload Documents
- Passport bio-page scan (PDF/JPEG, <2MB).
- Recent passport photo (plain white background, no glasses/headwear).
- UAE residence visa/Emirates ID (clear scan).
- Return flight ticket (PDF confirmation).
If Applicable:
- Business: Kenyan company invitation + registration.
- Family Visit: Host’s ID copy + invitation letter.
Review & Pay
- Triple-check all details match your documents.
- Pay $30 USD via Visa/Mastercard/Amex (non-refundable).
Submit & Track
- Confirmation email received instantly.
- Processing: Usually 1-3 business days (weekends excluded).
Travel Tips for UAE Residents Visiting Kenya
- Passport Validity: Ensure your passport is valid for at least six months from your departure date from Kenya.
- Print Your Kenya eTA: Carry a printed copy of your approved eTA—it’s mandatory at immigration.
- Travel Purpose: Kenya eTA is valid for tourism, business, family visits, or transit. Employment or long-term stay requires separate permits.
- Avoid Overstay: Overstaying your eTA can lead to fines or future entry bans.
- Health Requirements: Check for mandatory vaccinations (like Yellow Fever) if traveling from risk areas.
- Stay Updated: Always confirm details with the official Kenya eTA portal (www.etakenya.go.ke) or the Kenyan Embassy in the UAE.
Travel Tips for UAE Residents Visiting Kenya
Once your Kenya eTA is approved, you’re ready to explore Kenya’s world-famous safaris, breathtaking landscapes, and vibrant culture. Whether you’re dreaming of a Big Five safari, a serene beach getaway in Mombasa, or an adventurous trek up Mount Kenya, securing your eTA ensures hassle-free entry into this stunning East African destination.
Start your journey from the UAE with confidence—apply early for your Kenya eTA and get ready for the adventure of a lifetime.
Need Professional Kenya eTA Assistance?
Gulliver Holidays – a trusted UAE travel agency – offers expert Kenya eTA support:
Their Services Include:
✅ Document Guidance
→ Tailored checklist for UAE residents
✅ Application Review
→ Error-proof form filling & submission
✅ Status Tracking
→ Real-time updates on approval
✅ Emergency Support
→ Dedicated hotline for urgent cases
Contact Gulliver Holidays:
📞 Dubai: +971 58 987 0028
🌐 Website: www.gulliverholidays.com
📍 Locations: Find Your Nearest Branch
FAQs:
Yes, applicants must submit a written document stating the purpose of visit along with a detailed travel itinerary.
Prepare the required documents and visa application fee.
Submit them to our retail outlet.
We’ll fill out the visa form, organize supporting documents, and handle submission.
Your application will only proceed after document verification and full payment.
The Kenya visa usually takes 2–3 working days to process. However, delays can occur, so apply early.
No, the visa application fee is non-refundable, regardless of the outcome.
Your passport must be valid for at least six months from your planned date of travel.
Document verification
Form filling and printing
Application preparation
Submission and follow-up
The Kenya eVisa is typically processed in about 3 business days. To avoid delays, apply at least 2 weeks in advance. Applications can be submitted up to 3 months before travel.
The Kenya eVisa costs between AED 90 and AED 180 for a single-entry visa, depending on the platform and processing method. Official website processing can take up to 7 business days.
Visit the official Kenya eCitizen portal:
Select ‘eVisa Application’ under services
Enter your reference or application number
Click ‘Search’ to view your visa status
Citizens of 45 countries can travel to Kenya visa-free. Check the official Kenya immigration website for the latest list of visa-exempt countries.
Contact Form
Talk to our Global Visa Expert +971 58 987 0028
Email us: info@gullivertravelsae.com
Kenya e-Visa from UAE
Your Ultimate Guide for seamless Travel in 2025
Dreaming of an unforgettable safari in the Masai Mara, relaxing on the pristine beaches of Mombasa, or exploring the vibrant culture of Nairobi? For residents of the UAE, securing a Kenya e-Visa (now primarily an eTA) is the essential first step towards your East African adventure. This ultimate guide provides comprehensive, up-to-date information on the Kenya eTA application process from the UAE, ensuring a smooth and hassle-free journey.
Why is a Kenya eTA Required for UAE Residents?
As of January 2024, Kenya transitioned to a mandatory Electronic Travel Authorization (eTA) system, replacing the traditional e-Visa for most travelers. This digital system enhances efficiency and security, making travel preparations more convenient for visitors from the UAE.
Key Benefits of the Kenya eTA:
- Online Application: Apply conveniently from anywhere in Dubai, Abu Dhabi, or any other Emirate with an internet connection.
- Faster Processing: Generally quicker than traditional visa applications, streamlining your pre-travel plans.
- Paperless System: Receive your approved eTA directly via email.
- Wider Accessibility: Available for most nationalities residing in the UAE (check specific exemptions below).
Visa Fees
Service
Service Charges
Visa charges
AED 375
What’s Included?
Includes
Visa fees
Filling application form
Travel itinerary
.
Who Needs a Kenya eTA from UAE?
Most foreign nationals holding a UAE Residence Visa, including popular expat communities like Indian, Pakistani, and Filipino passport holders, are required to obtain an eTA to enter Kenya.
Important Update for UAE Citizens (Emirati Passport Holders):
As of early 2025, UAE citizens are generally exempt from the Kenya eTA requirement. They typically receive visa-free entry upon arrival, allowing a stay of up to 90 days, provided their passport is valid for at least six months. However, it is crucial to always verify the latest regulations directly with the official Kenyan eTA portal or the Embassy closer to your travel date, as policies can change.
Exemptions from Kenya eTA Application:
- Kenyan citizens
- Holders of Kenya Permanent Residence, valid Work Permits, and Passes
- Holders of valid UN Conventional Travel Documents issued by the Government of Kenya
- Members of diplomatic missions and international organizations accredited to Kenya
- Citizens of East African Community (EAC) Partner States (e.g., Burundi, DRC, Rwanda, South Sudan, Tanzania, Uganda)
Types of Kenya eTA (and e-Visa if applicable) for UAE Residents
While the eTA is now the primary entry document, it covers various travel purposes. Here are the common categories relevant to UAE residents:
- Single Entry Tourist eTA: Ideal for a single visit, typically valid for up to 90 days from the date of issue, allowing a maximum stay of 90 days. This is the most common for Kenya holidays from UAE.
- Transit eTA: For travelers transiting through Kenya who intend to leave the airport for a short period (e.g., up to 72 hours). Requires proof of onward travel.
- Business eTA: For short-term business activities, meetings, or conferences.
- East Africa Tourist Visa (EATV): A special visa (not an eTA) that allows multiple entries within Kenya, Uganda, and Rwanda for tourism purposes. You must enter the country that issued the EATV first. If you have an EATV, you do not need a separate Kenya eTA.
Required Documents
To ensure a swift application process for your Kenya eTA from UAE, prepare the following digital documents for online upload:
Passport Copy – Clear scan of the biodata page (valid for 6+ months, 2 blank pages).
Passport Photo – Recent color photo (white background, no selfies).
UAE Residence Visa/Emirates ID – Valid for at least 6 months.
Return Flight Ticket – Confirmed round-trip booking.
Accommodation Proof – Hotel bookings or host invitation (with contact details).
Recommended:
Proof of Funds (bank statements).
Additional Documents (as applicable):
- For Business eTA: Invitation letter from the Kenyan company, copy of the company’s registration in Kenya.
- For Family Visit eTA: Invitation letter from your family/host, and a copy of their Kenyan identity card, passport, alien card, or entry permit.
- For Indian, Pakistani, or Filipino Residents in UAE: An employment/sponsorship letter from your UAE employer/sponsor might be requested.
Kenya eTA Processing Time from UAE
The standard Kenya eTA processing time is approximately 3 business days. To avoid delays, travelers from the UAE are advised to apply at least 72 hours before departure. For added safety, consider applying 1–2 weeks in advance.
Expedited Kenya eTA:
Some official channels and licensed UAE agencies offer fast-track eTA services (under 72 hours) for an additional fee. Check availability on the official portal: www.etakenya.go.ke.
Delays May Occur Due To:
Incomplete or incorrect applications
Public holidays in Kenya or the UAE
Extra security or document checks
Apply early for a smooth and stress-free entry to Kenya.
Step-by-Step Guide:
Register an Account
- Use a valid email (approvals sent here).
- Click Apply Now → New Applicant.
Select eTA Type
- Choose: Tourist (Single Entry), Business, or Family Visit.
Complete the Application
- Personal Details: Full name (matching passport), nationality, UAE address.
- Passport Data: Number, issue/expiry dates.
- Travel Plans:
- Flight numbers & dates (round-trip mandatory).
- Hotel bookings OR host’s full address/contact.
Upload Documents
- Passport bio-page scan (PDF/JPEG, <2MB).
- Recent passport photo (plain white background, no glasses/headwear).
- UAE residence visa/Emirates ID (clear scan).
- Return flight ticket (PDF confirmation).
If Applicable:
- Business: Kenyan company invitation + registration.
- Family Visit: Host’s ID copy + invitation letter.
Review & Pay
- Triple-check all details match your documents.
- Pay $30 USD via Visa/Mastercard/Amex (non-refundable).
Submit & Track
- Confirmation email received instantly.
- Processing: Usually 1-3 business days (weekends excluded).
Travel Tips for UAE Residents Visiting Kenya
- Passport Validity: Ensure your passport is valid for at least six months from your departure date from Kenya.
- Print Your Kenya eTA: Carry a printed copy of your approved eTA—it’s mandatory at immigration.
- Travel Purpose: Kenya eTA is valid for tourism, business, family visits, or transit. Employment or long-term stay requires separate permits.
- Avoid Overstay: Overstaying your eTA can lead to fines or future entry bans.
- Health Requirements: Check for mandatory vaccinations (like Yellow Fever) if traveling from risk areas.
- Stay Updated: Always confirm details with the official Kenya eTA portal (www.etakenya.go.ke) or the Kenyan Embassy in the UAE.
Travel Tips for UAE Residents Visiting Kenya
Once your Kenya eTA is approved, you’re ready to explore Kenya’s world-famous safaris, breathtaking landscapes, and vibrant culture. Whether you’re dreaming of a Big Five safari, a serene beach getaway in Mombasa, or an adventurous trek up Mount Kenya, securing your eTA ensures hassle-free entry into this stunning East African destination.
Start your journey from the UAE with confidence—apply early for your Kenya eTA and get ready for the adventure of a lifetime.
Need Professional Kenya eTA Assistance?
Gulliver Holidays – a trusted UAE travel agency – offers expert Kenya eTA support:
Their Services Include:
✅ Document Guidance
→ Tailored checklist for UAE residents
✅ Application Review
→ Error-proof form filling & submission
✅ Status Tracking
→ Real-time updates on approval
✅ Emergency Support
→ Dedicated hotline for urgent cases
Contact Gulliver Holidays:
📞 Dubai: +971 58 987 0028
🌐 Website: www.gulliverholidays.com
📍 Locations: Find Your Nearest Branch
FAQs:
Yes, applicants must submit a written document stating the purpose of visit along with a detailed travel itinerary.
Prepare the required documents and visa application fee.
Submit them to our retail outlet.
We’ll fill out the visa form, organize supporting documents, and handle submission.
Your application will only proceed after document verification and full payment.
The Kenya visa usually takes 2–3 working days to process. However, delays can occur, so apply early.
No, the visa application fee is non-refundable, regardless of the outcome.
Your passport must be valid for at least six months from your planned date of travel.
Document verification
Form filling and printing
Application preparation
Submission and follow-up
The Kenya eVisa is typically processed in about 3 business days. To avoid delays, apply at least 2 weeks in advance. Applications can be submitted up to 3 months before travel.
The Kenya eVisa costs between AED 90 and AED 180 for a single-entry visa, depending on the platform and processing method. Official website processing can take up to 7 business days.
Visit the official Kenya eCitizen portal:
Select ‘eVisa Application’ under services
Enter your reference or application number
Click ‘Search’ to view your visa status
Citizens of 45 countries can travel to Kenya visa-free. Check the official Kenya immigration website for the latest list of visa-exempt countries.
