Kenya Visa RequirementsFor Canada passport holders
Canadian passport holders must apply for a Kenya Electronic Travel Authorisation (ETA) before travel, at a cost of USD $30. The ETA replaced the previous e-Visa system in January 2024 and allows stays of up to 90 days.
Canada passport holders must obtain an Electronic Travel Authorization (eTA) online before traveling to Kenya.
Apply for the Kenya ETA online at etakenya.go.ke before your trip. The application costs USD $30 and typically takes around three business days to process. You will need a valid passport with at least six months of validity, a recent passport-sized photo, and proof of onward travel. Yellow fever vaccination may be required depending on your route.
Entry Requirements
Passport Validity
6 months beyond date of entry
Blank Pages
2 blank pages required
Multiple Entry
Single entry only
Work Permitted
No - requires work visa
Current Travel Situation
Canada to Kenya: What You Need to Know
Kenya is one of Africa's top safari destinations and a major hub for East Africa travel. Nairobi is a well-connected gateway. Canada and Kenya have good bilateral relations. The Government of Canada advises exercising a high degree of caution due to terrorism risk and crime, particularly in Nairobi's suburbs and coastal areas near Somalia.
Practical Tips
Yellow fever vaccination is required if arriving from a yellow fever country. Malaria prophylaxis is recommended for most of Kenya. The Kenyan shilling (KES) is the currency; USD is accepted in tourist areas. M-Pesa mobile payments are ubiquitous. Nairobi traffic is notoriously heavy; budget extra time. Safari parks require advance booking.
Frequently Asked Questions
How do Canadians apply for a Kenyan eVisa?
Apply through the Kenya eCitizen portal at immigration.ecitizen.go.ke. The single-entry eVisa costs $51 USD and processing takes 2 to 3 business days. Upload a digital photo, passport scan, and yellow fever certificate (if applicable). Print the eVisa approval for immigration.
Is a yellow fever certificate required for Kenya?
A yellow fever vaccination certificate is required only if you are arriving from a country with risk of yellow fever transmission (e.g., Uganda, Tanzania, Democratic Republic of Congo). It is recommended to be vaccinated regardless as a precaution for travel in East Africa.
What is the best time to visit Kenya for safari?
The Great Migration peaks in the Masai Mara from July to October, which is prime safari season. January to March is also excellent for wildlife. April and May are the long rainy season. December to February offers good wildlife viewing with fewer crowds.
What are the top destinations in Kenya for Canadian visitors?
The Masai Mara National Reserve is a must for wildlife viewing. Nairobi has excellent restaurants and the Nairobi National Park. The Kenyan coast (Diani Beach, Watamu) offers Indian Ocean beaches. Mount Kenya is Africa's second-highest peak and popular with trekkers.