Planning a trip to Kenya? Knowing how the Kenya eTA—electronic travel authorization—works is one of the first realistic steps. Here's a transparent, easy-to-use guide explaining Kenya eTA fees, Processing Time, And Payment options—along with practical information on saving money and avoiding delays.

A Kenya eTA is an online authorization that allows eligible visitors to enter Kenya without applying in person. It replaces older paper-based or on-arrival systems in many cases and centralizes the application, fee payment, and approval process through an online portal. The eTA is linked electronically to the traveler’s passport.

Kenya eTA Fees" may consist of multiple distinct fees. Understanding each element makes you realize the overall price:

Application/visa fee: the main government fee for processing the eTA. This is different by nationality, passport type (ordinary or diplomatic/service), length of stay, and whether it's single- or multiple-entry.

Processing/service fee: a few platforms include an additional fee for administrative handling or quicker processing. If you are using a third-party facilitator, there will be additional convenience fees.

Payment processing fees: card networks or payment gateways might include a small percentage or fixed fee to absorb the transaction costs, particularly for cross-border payments.

Optional add-ons: such as priority processing, courier delivery (if an occasional physical document is issued), or biometric appointments where necessary.

Charges vary by nationality and type of permit applied for. As a rough guideline:

Brief tourist eTAs tend to fall in the low-to-medium price range (think tens of USD for most nationalities).

Longer-term, multiple-entry, or specialized-purpose permits can be much higher.

Since fees are determined by the issuing agency and can vary, use any particular number you see as representative—always check the specific fee when applying online.

Certain visitors (children, infants, or those in possession of specific types of passports) might qualify for lowered fees or exemptions. Waivers or discounts could also be given under special initiatives or bilateral agreements—look at the official portal during your application preparation.

"Processing Time" for an eTA is generally promoted as quick, but real timelines are based on many factors:

Automated vs. manual processing: Most simple tourist applications are processed automatically in minutes to a few hours. Applications needing document verification or manual processing can take longer (24–72 hours or more).

Completeness and accuracy: Omitted or mismatched passport information, illegible supporting documents, or conflicting information nearly always takes extra days.

Peak travel seasons: During peak holiday or special event periods, large volumes of processing may be impeded.

Nationality and security screening: Candidates from some countries or with difficult-to-vet travel histories can face further background checks that add to processing time.

Payment verification: If the payment doesn't go through right away (card hold problems, bank verifications), processing is halted until the payment has been cleared.

Fast lane (best): immediate to 24 hours for simple tourist eTAs.

Typical case: 24–72 hours.

Extended screenings: up to 7–14 days in exceptional situations.

If an urgent trip is necessary, apply quickly and utilize any priority-processing option provided (if available and reliable).

Most eTA systems support a combination of new payment methods. Popular payment options are:

International credit/debit cards (Visa, Mastercard, occasionally AmEx): most universal; check your card supports international online payments and has sufficient funds.

Mobile money (local): mobile wallets (for locals or specific payment portals) are used in Kenya. Mobile money may or may not be available when paying from overseas.

Online payment processors: regional payment portals or PayPal might be supported.

Bank transfers or local payment channels: not typical for eTA applications due to the slow processing time, but occasionally provided for residents.

Be prepared to be charged in the currency of the application portal (usually USD or the local currency). Your bank will charge an exchange rate and an international transaction fee—see your card terms for surprises.

Always pay on the official government visa portal (look for HTTPS and a valid domain name).

Avoid third-party sites with much higher fees—they tend to make huge markups.

Save a copy of the payment confirmation and transaction ID.

Use 3D Secure / OTP cards if available, and never send your full card number by email or chat.

If a site asks for payment in odd ways (gift cards, person-to-person transfers), don't go ahead.

After payment: confirmations and next steps

You will get an instant on-screen notice and an email with an application number or receipt.

The approved eTA, when issued, is normally received electronically—save a PDF or screenshot, and take a printed copy as a backup.

Double-check that the eTA information is identical to your passport. If there is a discrepancy, call the issuing authority straight away using the official contact methods.

Incorrect passport information: one misplaced digit in your passport number can invalidate the authorization.

Paying in an incorrect currency: this can introduce unexpected conversion charges.

Last-minute applications: leave time for potential manual processing or queries.

Not keeping receipts: proof of payment accelerates problem-solving.

Valid passport with at least six months' validity and blank pages.

Accurate passport information entered as it appears.

Post a clear digital photograph and any documents that were requested.

Pay with a card or a method with enough available limit.

Email address that you regularly monitor.

This manual discusses typical trends regarding Kenya eTA fees, processing time, and payment methods so you can book confidently. Fees and modes of payment may fluctuate; therefore, when you are ready to apply, go to the official government visa website to verify up-to-date charges, accepted payment methods, and precise processing time windows. Safe journeys!