QuickTravelTools Do I need a visa for Kenya with a US passport?
- Passport
- US
- Destination
- Kenya
- Purpose
- Tourism
- Stay
- See details
You need an ETA before you fly. It is a short online form, not a full visa.
Verified October 5, 2026
Source: Kenya Electronic Travel Authorization (eTA), official government portal.
What you need
- Travel authorisation required
You need an ETA before you fly. It is a short online form, not a full visa.
Source: Kenya Electronic Travel Authorization (eTA), official government portal
QTT checked Kenya's official guidance on October 5, 2026. We re-check these sources and update this page when official rules change.
Official sources
- States all visitors, including infants and children, must have an approved eTA before the start of their journey; the US is not on the eTA-exemption list. (Kenya Electronic Travel Authorization (eTA), official government portal, verified October 5, 2026)
Visa rules for all 199 passports: Kenya visa hub.
Visa costs and applying
- Processing time: Processing time is typically three (3) working days, but it may take longer in some cases
Source: Republic of Kenya - Electronic Travel Authorisation portal. - Apply: Start the official Kenya eTA portal
Kenya at a glance
| Region | Africa |
|---|---|
| Everyday prices | 31 on our price index (US = 100) |
| Power | Type G sockets, 240/415 V, 50 Hz |
On cost, Kenya is one of the more affordable places to visit: everyday prices sit at about 31 on a global index where the United States is 100. See how Kenya compares to 179 countries.
Pack a plug adapter: US devices use Type A/B/NEMA 14-30/NEMA 14-50, but Kenya uses Type G. Voltage differs too (240/415 V there versus 120/240 V, 120/208 V, 277/480 V at home), so check for a dual-voltage label before plugging in. Full plug and voltage guide for Kenya.
Travel insurance is required for this trip.This is checked at entry for all visitors.
Non Kenyans entering Kenya for under 12 months must hold inbound travel health insurance with at least USD 50,000 in cumulative benefits. Minimum coverage: USD 50,000 cumulative benefits.
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Common questions
Do US citizens need a visa for Kenya?
Yes. You need an ETA before you fly. It is a short online form, not a full visa.
How long can a US passport holder stay in Kenya?
The permitted stay depends on the visa or authorisation issued. Check the official immigration site before booking.
Is the visa information on this page official?
No. This is a summary compiled from official government sources and verified by QuickTravelTools, and it can lag rule changes. Always confirm with Kenya's embassy or official immigration portal before you travel.
Nearby destinations for US passport holders
Sorted by distance from Kenya, useful if your trip covers more than one country.