Kenya Visa for Italian Citizens
Italian citizens need an Electronic Travel Authorization (eTA) to visit Kenya. Kenya is a popular safari destination for Italian travelers, and the new eTA system makes entry straightforward. The Standard eTA costs $30, allows a single entry, and is valid for 90 days. Italian passport holders can complete the entire application online at etakenya.go.ke. Processing takes two to five business days, so it is advisable to apply at least a week before your planned departure.
Visa At a Glance
- Visa Type
- Electronic Travel Authorization (eTA)
- Best Option
- Standard eTA
- Cost
- $30
- Processing
- 2-5 days
- Validity
- 90 days
- Entries
- Single
E-Visa Application
RecommendedCost
$30
Processing
2-5 business days
Stay Permitted
90 days
Entries
Single
How to Apply for E-Visa
Go to etakenya.go.ke and create an account
Select 'Standard eTA' for single entry ($30)
Fill in the application form with your personal and travel details
Upload a passport photo (JPEG, 500x500px)
Upload your passport bio page scan
Upload your return or onward ticket
Upload hotel booking or invitation letter
Pay $30 via credit card
Wait 2-5 business days for approval
Download eTA approval to show at immigration
Requirements
E-Visa Documents
- Valid Italian passport (6+ months validity beyond entry)
- Passport-size photo (digital, white background)
- Scanned passport bio page
- Return or onward flight ticket
- Proof of accommodation (hotel booking, safari itinerary, or invitation)
- Credit card for payment
Passport Requirements
- Validity: At least 6 months beyond entry date
- Blank Pages: At least 2 blank pages
- Condition: Good condition, no damage
East Africa Tourist Visa
Visiting multiple East African countries? The East Africa Tourist Visa might be a better option.
Cost
$
Validity
days
Entries
Multiple
Countries
Kenya, Uganda, Rwanda
When to choose: If visiting 2+ of Kenya, Uganda, Rwanda on same trip (when available)
At Immigration
What to Present
- •Passport
- •Printed or digital eTA approval
- •Return flight ticket
- •Accommodation details (may be asked)
Tips
- •Have documents easily accessible
- •Know your hotel/lodge name
- •Be polite and patient
- •Digital eTA on phone is usually accepted, but print backup recommended
Typical processing time: 10-20 minutes with eTA
Common Mistakes to Avoid
- Not applying for eTA before travel (visa on arrival is no longer available)
- Applying too late (eTA can take up to 5 days to process)
- Using unofficial websites (scam sites exist, use only etakenya.go.ke)
- Passport validity less than 6 months
- Wrong photo specifications
Frequently Asked Questions
Do Italian citizens need a visa for Kenya?
Italian citizens need an Electronic Travel Authorization (eTA) to enter Kenya. The Standard eTA costs $30 and is valid for 90 days.
How much is the Kenya eTA for Italian citizens?
The Standard eTA is $30 for a single entry. A one-year multi-entry eTA is available for $300.
Can Italian citizens get a Kenya visa on arrival?
No. Kenya no longer offers visa on arrival. All visitors must apply for an eTA online before travel at etakenya.go.ke.
How long can Italian citizens stay in Kenya?
The Standard eTA allows a stay of up to 90 days. Extensions are possible at immigration headquarters in Nairobi.
How long does the Kenya eTA take to process?
Usually 2-3 business days, but it can take up to 5 days. Apply at least a week before your trip.
Visa Requirements for Italian Citizens in Other Countries
Planning a multi-country trip? Check the requirements for your other destinations.