๐Ÿ‡ฌ๐Ÿ‡ง 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.

Electronic Travel AuthorizationThe short answer

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
Apply at the official portal โ†’

What else you need

Common entry requirements that catch travelers out โ€” verify each before you fly.

Passport validity
Six months beyond entry
Blank pages
One blank page
Yellow fever
Required if arriving from a yellow fever country
Onward ticket
Often required

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

Youโ€™ll likely pay Kenya visa fees in USD or local currency, not GBP. Bring clean, post-2009 USD notes in mixed denominations โ€” theyโ€™re 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.

Check another combination

Keep planning your Kenya trip