๐ฌ๐ง British passport โ Kenya
Do British citizens need a visa for Kenya?
British passports are among the best for Africa. Commonwealth ties give you visa-free entry to most Southern African countries and discounted fees in several others.
Yes โ apply for an electronic travel authorization (eTA) before flying.
Apply online before you fly for a digital travel authorization linked to your passport. Faster than a traditional e-visa. All non-African nationals need the Kenya eTA. The 'visa' category was retired in 2024.
- Stay length
- Up to 90 days
- Cost
- USD 30 plus service fee
- Processing
- Up to 3 working days
- Where to apply
- Official eTA portal
What else you need
Common entry requirements that catch travelers out โ verify each before you fly.
What to know about Kenya. Kenya replaced its traditional visa with an Electronic Travel Authorization (eTA) in January 2024. Apply at least 72 hours before travel; approvals usually arrive within three days. The East Africa Tourist Visa (USD 100) is a useful upgrade if combining with Uganda and Rwanda.
Notes for British travelers
Currency tip
Youโll likely pay Kenya visa fees in USD or local currency, not GBP. Bring clean, post-2009 USD notes in mixed denominations โ theyโre the most useful currency for visas on arrival and border fees across Africa.
Health prep
Required if arriving from a yellow fever country Check the latest CDC/UK government travel health advice for Kenya before you fly โ recommended vaccinations and antimalarial guidance change.
FAQ
- Do British citizens need a visa for Kenya?
- Yes. British passport holders need a electronic travel authorization for Kenya. All non-African nationals need the Kenya eTA. The 'visa' category was retired in 2024.
- How much does a Kenya visa cost for British citizens?
- USD 30 plus service fee. Processing time is Up to 3 working days. Apply at https://www.etakenya.go.ke.
- How long can British citizens stay in Kenya?
- Up to 90 days is the standard tourist entry. Extensions are usually possible through the destination's immigration office; some countries allow border-hop renewals.
- Can British citizens get a Kenya visa on arrival?
- No. You need to apply for an electronic travel authorization online before your flight.
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