Journey to the Savannah: Your Guide to the Kenya Visa for Belgian Citizens and Kenya Visa for Beninese Citizens

Kenya, a land of extraordinary natural beauty, unparalleled wildlife encounters, and a rich tapestry of cultures, consistently calls to adventurers worldwide.¹ From the iconic Great Migration in the Maasai Mara to the pristine Indian Ocean coastlines and the vibrant urban life of Nairobi, its allure is undeniable. For Belgian citizens and Beninese citizens eager to explore this East African gem, understanding the current entry requirements is an essential first step. This article provides a comprehensive guide to obtaining the necessary travel authorization for both nationalities, outlining the recent changes in Kenya’s entry system and detailing the application process.

Kenya’s New Entry Policy: The Mandate of the Electronic Travel Authorization (ETA)

As of January 2024, Kenya has ushered in a new era of travel, transitioning to a visa-free policy for all international visitors. This is a significant shift from the previous system of traditional visas or eVisas. However, it is paramount for both Belgian citizens and Beninese citizens to understand that while the term “visa” is technically no longer used for most visitors, a mandatory Electronic Travel Authorization (ETA) must be secured prior to travel. This digital system allows for pre-screening of travelers, enhancing security and ensuring a more streamlined entry process into Kenya.² Therefore, the requirement for pre-approval to enter Kenya remains, albeit in a new digital format.

The Kenya ETA for Belgian Citizens: Your Digital Pass to the Wild

For Belgian citizens, the Kenya ETA is the primary document required for entry into Kenya. This electronic authorization is designed for short-term stays for purposes such as tourism, business, or visiting family and friends.³

Key Features of the Kenya ETA for Belgian Citizens:

• Mandatory Requirement: All Belgian citizens, including minors, are required to obtain an approved Kenya ETA before their travel. The previous “Visa on Arrival” option is no longer available.
• Purpose of Travel: The ETA is suitable for brief visits. It does not confer the right to work or reside in Kenya.
• Validity: A standard single-entry ETA typically allows a stay of up to 90 days within a validity period of 90 days from the date of issuance. Transit ETAs (for stays up to 72 hours) and the East Africa Tourist Visa (EATV), covering Kenya, Rwanda, and Uganda, are also available options depending on your travel plans.

Requirements for the Kenya ETA (Belgian Citizens):

To successfully apply for your Kenya ETA, Belgian citizens will need the following documents and information:

• Valid Passport: Your Belgian passport must be valid for at least six months beyond your intended date of entry into Kenya. It should also have at least one blank page for any necessary immigration stamps.
• Digital Passport Scan: A clear, high-resolution digital copy of the bio-page of your passport. This page contains your personal details and photograph.
• Recent Digital Photograph: A colored digital passport-sized photograph that meets standard requirements (e.g., white or light-colored background, clear facial features, taken within the last six months).⁴

   

• Confirmed Travel Itinerary: Details of your travel plans, including confirmed return or onward flight tickets, demonstrating your intention to leave Kenya within the authorized period.
• Proof of Accommodation: Evidence of where you will be staying in Kenya, such as confirmed hotel reservations.⁵ If you are visiting friends or family, a letter of invitation from your host, along with a copy of their Kenyan ID or passport, will be required.

   

• Proof of Adequate Funds: While not always strictly requested during the online application, you may be asked to demonstrate that you have sufficient financial means to cover your expenses during your stay in Kenya.
• Email Address: A valid and active email address to receive the approved ETA.
• Credit/Debit Card: For secure online payment of the ETA fee.

Application Process for the Kenya ETA (Belgian Citizens):

The application for the Kenya ETA is an entirely online process, offering convenience for Belgian citizens:

1. Access the Official Portal: Visit the official Kenya ETA application portal (www.etakenya.go.ke).
2. Create an Account: If you don’t already have one, register for an account on the platform.
3. Start a New Application: Select the option to apply for a new ETA.
4. Fill the Application Form: Accurately complete all sections of the online application form with your personal details, passport information, and travel itinerary. It is crucial to ensure all information precisely matches your passport to prevent rejections.
5. Upload Documents: Upload the required digital copies of your passport’s bio-page, recent photograph, confirmed flight itinerary, and proof of accommodation.
6. Pay the Fee: Securely pay the Kenya ETA fee online using a credit or debit card.⁶ The fee is typically around USD 30 (subject to change by the Kenyan government).

    

7. Submit and Await Approval: Carefully review your application before submission. Once submitted, the processing normally takes between 3 to 5 working days. Applying well in advance is highly recommended.
8. Receive and Print ETA: Once approved, your Kenya ETA will be sent to your registered email address. It is essential to print a copy of this ETA or have it readily available digitally to present to immigration officials upon arrival in Kenya.

The Kenya ETA for Beninese Citizens: Smooth Sailing to Safari Land

For Beninese citizens, the process for entering Kenya is similar to that for Belgian citizens. The mandatory Kenya ETA must be obtained prior to travel, replacing any previous visa requirements.

Key Features of the Kenya ETA for Beninese Citizens:

• Mandatory Pre-Approval: Like Belgian citizens, all Beninese citizens must secure an approved Kenya ETA before their journey. There is no “Visa on Arrival” option for this nationality.
• Purpose of Travel: The ETA is valid for short-term visits for tourism, business, or family.⁷

   

• Validity: The standard single-entry ETA allows a stay of up to 90 days within a 90-day validity period. The East Africa Tourist Visa (EATV) is also an option if you plan to include Rwanda and Uganda in your itinerary, with Kenya as your first entry point.

Requirements for the Kenya ETA (Beninese Citizens):

The necessary documents for Beninese citizens applying for a Kenya ETA are largely identical to those for Belgian citizens:

• Valid Passport: Your Beninese passport must be valid for at least six months from your intended date of entry into Kenya, with at least one blank page.
• Digital Passport Scan: A clear digital copy of your passport’s bio-page.
• Recent Digital Photograph: A colored digital passport-sized photograph meeting the specified requirements.⁸

   

• Confirmed Travel Itinerary: Proof of confirmed return or onward flight tickets.
• Proof of Accommodation: Hotel reservations or an invitation letter from a host in Kenya.⁹

   

• Proof of Adequate Funds: Evidence of sufficient funds for your stay may be requested.
• Email Address: A valid email address for receiving your ETA.
• Credit/Debit Card: For online payment of the ETA fee.

Application Process for the Kenya ETA (Beninese Citizens):

The online application process for Beninese citizens is the same as described for Belgian citizens:

1. Access the Official Portal: Utilize the official Kenya ETA application portal (www.etakenya.go.ke).
2. Create an Account: Register if you don’t have one.
3. Start a New Application: Initiate a new ETA application.
4. Fill the Application Form: Accurately complete all personal, passport, and travel details.¹⁰

    

5. Upload Documents: Upload the required digital documents (passport, photo, flights, accommodation).
6. Pay the Fee: Pay the Kenya ETA fee securely online (currently around USD 30).¹¹

    

7. Submit and Await Approval: Submit your application and allow 3 to 5 business days for processing.
8. Receive and Print ETA: Once approved, print or save your ETA for presentation upon arrival.

Important Considerations for All Travelers to Kenya:

• Passport Validity: Always confirm your passport is valid for at least six months beyond your planned departure from Kenya. This is a crucial and common international travel requirement.
• Yellow Fever Vaccination: If you are arriving from or have transited through a country with a risk of Yellow Fever transmission, you must present a valid Yellow Fever vaccination certificate upon arrival in Kenya.¹² It is vital to check the latest health advisories from the World Health Organization (WHO) or your national health authority well in advance of your trip.

   

• Accuracy is Key: Meticulously review all information entered on your Kenya ETA application. Any errors or discrepancies can lead to delays or even rejection of your application.¹³

   

• Apply in Advance: While processing times are generally efficient, it is highly advisable to apply for your ETA at least one week before your planned travel date to account for any unforeseen delays or technical issues.
• Travel Insurance: Comprehensive travel insurance, which includes emergency medical evacuation and coverage for travel disruptions, is strongly recommended for all visitors.¹⁴

   

• Children: Every individual traveler, including infants and children, requires their own separate ETA application.
• Official Website: Be cautious of unofficial third-party websites that may charge inflated fees or provide misleading information. Always use the official Kenyan government ETA portal (www.etakenya.go.ke) for your application.
• Entry Discretion: Possession of an approved ETA does not guarantee entry into Kenya.¹⁵ The final decision rests with immigration officials at the port of entry, who may request additional documentation or ask questions about your visit.

   

By diligently following these guidelines and securing their Kenya ETA in advance, both Belgian citizens and Beninese citizens can look forward to a smooth entry and an unforgettable adventure exploring the incredible landscapes and rich heritage of Kenya.