Kenya eTA Requirements for Burkina Faso Passport Holders

Are you planning a journey from the vibrant landscapes of Burkina Faso to the majestic savannahs of Kenya? This guide provides everything you need to know about the  Kenya eTA for Burkina Faso citizens , ensuring your travel preparations are seamless and stress-free.

Do I Need an eTA to Go to Kenya from Burkina Faso?

Yes, being a citizen of Burkina Faso, you need to secure an approved Electronic Travel Authorization (eTA) prior to your boarding flight to Kenya. Although Kenya has eliminated the previously applied traditional visa to promote tourism, eTA is an online screening mechanism. This is required to be presented by all foreign nationals (except those of the member states of the East African Community). The airlines will not be able to check you in to board a flight without having a printed or digital copy of your approved eTA.

What are the Document Requirements for a Kenya eTA?

To ensure a successful application, you must provide the following essential documents in digital format:

• Valid Passport: Must be a standard passport (not an emergency document) with at least six months of validity from your entry date and one blank page.


• Recent Photograph: A high-quality, passport-style digital photo or clear selfie taken against a plain white background with a neutral expression.


• Travel Itinerary: Clear details of your journey, including your arrival flight number and the scheduled date of departure from your origin.


• Accommodation Proof: A confirmed hotel booking or an official invitation letter if staying with a host, including their contact info and ID copy.

How Long Does the Kenya eTA Processing Take?

Depending on your urgency, there are typically three tiers of processing times available through various service providers. Understanding the Processing Time for Kenya eTA   helps applicants choose the most suitable option and plan their travel without unnecessary delays.

1. Normal Processing (3-5 Days): Best for those who plan well in advance. This is the standard timeframe for most applications.


2. Rush Processing (2-3 Days): Ideal if you are traveling within the week and need a quicker turnaround.


3. Super Rush Processing (1-2 Days): Reserved for emergency travel or last-minute bookings.

It is highly recommended to apply at least two weeks before your trip to account for any unexpected holidays or additional document requests.

How much is the eTA fee for Kenya?

Understanding the breakdown of fees is essential for budgeting your travel expenses correctly. The total price is composed of three distinct elements:

• Government Processing Fee: A mandatory, non-refundable charge required by the Kenyan immigration authorities to evaluate your application. This fee must be paid online during the submission process.


• Service Fee: An additional charge applied by specialized application platforms to provide expert document review, error correction, and 24/7 technical support to ensure a higher approval rate.


• Expedited Processing Surcharge: A variable cost based on your chosen turnaround time; selecting "Rush" or "Super Rush" options requires prioritized administrative handling, which increases the final service price.

What is the Stay Duration Allowed on a Kenya eTA?

An approved Kenya eTA typically allows for a stay of up to 90 days (3 months) from the date of entry. It is important to note that the eTA itself is valid for travel for 90 days from the date of issuance. If you do not enter Kenya within this 3-month window, the document expires, and you must apply for a new one.

How to Apply for a Kenya eTA from Burkina Faso?

The application process is designed to be straightforward and can be completed from your smartphone or computer. The  Kenya eTA application  is fully online, allowing travelers to submit required details and documents conveniently without visiting any embassy or consulate.

1. Fill the Form: Enter your personal details exactly as they appear on your passport.


2. Upload Documents: Attach your passport scan, photo, and itinerary.


3. Pay the Fees: Use a valid credit or debit card to finalize the submission.


4. Receive via Email: Once approved, your eTA will be sent to your inbox as a PDF.

What are the Photo Requirements for the Kenya eTA?

To avoid delays, follow these specific guidelines:

• Background: Must be plain white or off-white.


• Expression: Neutral, no smiling or frowning.


• Attire: Normal street clothes (uniforms are generally not allowed unless religious).


• Glasses: Prescription glasses are allowed if they don't have tinted lenses or glare.


• Headgear: Only allowed for religious reasons and must not obscure the face.

Is Travel Insurance Mandatory for the Kenya eTA?

While the Kenyan government does not strictly require travel insurance as a condition for the eTA, it is highly recommended. Medical costs for foreigners in Kenya can be high. A good insurance policy covers emergency medical evacuation, trip cancellations, and lost luggage, providing peace of mind during your safari or business trip.

What Documents Should I Carry When Traveling to Kenya?

Once you land in Nairobi or Mombasa, you should have the following printed or easily accessible on your phone:

• Approved eTA: A printed copy is safest.


• Passport: The same one used for the application.


• Yellow Fever Certificate: Burkina Faso is in an endemic zone; you must show proof of vaccination to enter Kenya.


• Accommodation Proof: Your hotel voucher or host's details.

What Payment Methods are Accepted for the Kenya eTA?

The Kenya eTA system utilizes a secure, digital payment gateway (primarily Stripe) to process application fees. Because the entire process is handled online, physical forms of payment like cash and bank cheques are strictly not accepted. To complete your transaction, you must use one of the following digital methods:

• International Credit & Debit Cards: The most common way to pay. The system accepts Visa, Mastercard, American Express, and Discover.


• Mobile Wallets: Modern digital platforms often support Apple Pay and Google Pay for a quicker checkout experience.


• Security Requirements: Ensure your card is authorized for international online transactions (3D Secure). If a payment fails, it is often due to bank-side security blocks on international payments; contacting your bank to "pre-authorize" the transaction can resolve this instantly.

Is Kenya Safe for Tourists Traveling with an eTA?

Kenya is a popular and generally safe destination for thousands of tourists annually. However, like any travel destination, it requires "a high degree of caution."

• Stay Alert: Be vigilant in crowded areas and avoid walking alone at night in major cities like Nairobi or Mombasa.


• Wildlife Safety: Always follow your guide's instructions during safaris.


• Local Laws: Respect local customs and traditions to ensure a smooth stay.

Is the Internet Easily Available in Kenya?

Yes, Kenya has one of the most advanced telecommunications infrastructures in Africa.

• Wi-Fi: Most hotels, cafes, and airports offer free Wi-Fi.


• Mobile Data: Buying a local SIM card (Safaricom or Airtel) is cheap and provides excellent 4G/5G coverage even in many national parks.


• SIM Registration: You will need your passport to register a local SIM card at the airport or official shops.

Do Minors Need a Kenya eTA?

YES, every traveler to Kenya, even infants and children (under 18 years old) must have his or her personal Kenya Electronic Travel Authorization (eTA), and there are no age exemptions. The application is done by a parent or a guardian and this is done where each individual has its own approval which is associated with their respective passport prior to traveling.

• Application: Parents or guardians must fill out the form on behalf of the minor.


• Group Application: It is recommended to apply as a "family group" to keep all authorizations linked.


• Requirements: Minors need their own passport, photo, and travel details just like adults.

Conclusion:

The departure of Kenya, Burkina Faso is the beginning of an unusually memorable trip. With a properly planned eTA and a second check on your yellow fever certification, you are clear of an entry complete of stress. If you're going to Nairobi to conduct your business, or the Mara to go and see the wild animals, your digital preparation will make sure that you stay focused on the amazing hospitality that East Africa has to offer. Safe travels!