Kenya Visa for Brazilian Citizens 2026 — eTA Guide

Do Brazilian Citizens Need a Visa for Kenya?

Yes, Brazilian citizens require travel authorization to enter Kenya. However, Brazil is eligible for Kenya's Electronic Travel Authorization (eTA) system, not a traditional visa. The eTA is an electronic document that must be obtained before arrival and is far simpler and faster than a conventional visa application.

The Kenya eTA allows Brazilian passport holders to enter Kenya for tourism, business visits, medical treatment, conferences, and family visits for up to 90 consecutive days. Once approved, you receive the eTA via email and must print it to carry with your passport at immigration.

Kenya eTA vs. Traditional Visa: What Brazilian Citizens Get

Kenya offers two main entry routes for Brazilian citizens:

• Electronic Travel Authorization (eTA): Digital authorization issued in 3 business days; valid for 90 days of stay; costs $30 (normal) or $100 (expedited); applied for online only.
• Traditional Visa: Physical stamp in your passport; available through Kenya's eCitizen portal or embassy; required only if you need to stay longer than 90 days or need multiple entries within 12 months.

Most Brazilian travelers use the eTA because it is faster, cheaper, and sufficient for standard safaris and short visits. Holders of diplomatic, official, or service Brazilian passports are exempt from eTA fees but may still apply for expedited processing.

Kenya eTA: Step-by-Step Application for Brazilian Citizens

Step 1: Gather Required Documents

Before you begin your application on the official Kenya eTA portal, have the following ready:

• Valid Brazilian passport: Must be valid for at least 6 months from your planned arrival date in Kenya and have at least one blank page.
• Selfie or passport-type photo: Taken within the last 6 months, color, against a plain background, meeting Kenya eTA photo guidelines.
• Email address: Active and accessible—all eTA notifications and approval will be sent here.
• Phone number: For contact verification.
• Travel itinerary: Confirmed arrival and departure dates, including return flight details or onward ticket to another destination (within 90 days).
• Accommodation booking confirmation: Hotel, resort, Airbnb, or lodge confirmation showing your stay dates and address in Kenya.
• Payment method: Valid credit or debit card (Visa, Mastercard, etc.).

Step 2: Visit the Official Kenya eTA Portal

Go to https://etakenya.go.ke, the official Kenya Electronic Travel Authorization website operated by Kenya's Directorate of Immigration Services. This is the only legitimate government portal—do not use third-party visa agencies unless you want to pay a premium service fee.

Step 3: Complete the Online Application Form

Fill in the eTA application form with your personal details:

• Full name (as it appears in your passport)
• Date of birth
• Passport number and expiry date
• Email address and phone number
• Purpose of visit (tourism, business, medical, conference, family visit)
• Planned arrival and departure dates
• Accommodation details (hotel name, address)
• Employer or business details (if applicable)

Step 4: Upload Supporting Documents

Depending on your travel purpose, upload the relevant documents:

• For all travelers: Passport bio page (photo page), selfie/passport photo, accommodation confirmation, return flight itinerary
• For business visits: Invitation letter from the Kenyan company, company registration certificate, contact details of the business host
• For medical treatment: Referral letter from a hospital or medical facility in Kenya
• For conferences: Invitation or participation letter from the conference organizer
• For family visits: Copy of your host's Kenyan national ID or passport (optional but recommended)
• Vaccination certificates: If you have received Yellow Fever, COVID-19, or other vaccines, upload proof (recommended but not always mandatory—check current health requirements before travel)

Step 5: Review and Submit

Review all entered information for accuracy. Errors or mismatched details (e.g., passport number typo) are a leading cause of rejection. Once confirmed, submit your application.

Step 6: Pay the eTA Fee

After submission, you will be directed to a secure payment page. Choose your processing option and pay:

• Normal processing: $30 (takes up to 3 business days)
• Expedited processing: $100 (immediate processing, often same-day approval)

Accepted payment methods include Visa, Mastercard, and other major credit/debit cards. The payment is processed securely via the official portal.

Step 7: Receive Your eTA Approval

Once approved, you will receive an email with your eTA document. Print a copy and carry it with your passport. You must present both the printed eTA and your passport at Kenya's immigration checkpoint upon arrival.

Kenya eTA Fees for Brazilian Citizens (2026)

Processing Type	Fee (USD)	Processing Time	Best For
Normal	$30	Up to 3 business days (72 hours)	Travelers applying 2+ weeks before departure
Expedited	$100	Immediate (often same-day)	Last-minute travelers or urgent travel
Diplomatic/Official/Service Passport Holders	Free (standard) or $100 (expedited)	Up to 3 days or immediate	Brazilian diplomats and officials on duty

Fees are non-refundable once the application is submitted. If your eTA is rejected, you may reapply and pay the fee again.

Kenya eTA Processing Times & Validity

How Long Does It Take?

Processing times depend on your chosen option:

• Normal processing: Up to 3 business days (72 hours). This means if you apply on a Monday, approval typically comes by Wednesday or Thursday.
• Expedited processing: Immediate or same-day approval in most cases.
• Verification delays: If Kenya immigration requires additional document verification, processing may take longer. Always apply at least 2–3 weeks before your departure date to allow for unexpected delays.

eTA Validity Period

The Kenya eTA is valid for travel within 90 days from the date of issuance. This means:

• If your eTA is approved on January 1, you must enter Kenya by March 31.
• Once you arrive in Kenya, the duration of your actual stay (up to 90 days) is determined by the immigration officer at your port of entry.
• Your passport must remain valid for the entire duration of your stay in Kenya.

Duration of Stay in Kenya

The eTA permits a maximum continuous stay of 90 days in Kenya. However, the exact number of days granted is at the discretion of the immigration officer when you arrive. Always carry proof of your return ticket and accommodation to demonstrate you have no intention to overstay.

What Happens at Kenya Immigration: Arrival Procedures

Documents to Present at Immigration

When you arrive at a Kenyan port of entry (airport, land border, or seaport), have the following ready:

• Printed eTA approval: A physical copy of your eTA document (not just on your phone, though digital backups are wise)
• Valid Brazilian passport: Open to the biographical page
• Return or onward ticket: Proof of your departure from Kenya
• Accommodation confirmation: Hotel or lodge booking showing your first night's stay

Immigration Interview

The immigration officer will typically ask:

• Purpose of your visit (tourism, business, family)
• Duration of stay
• Where you're staying
• How you'll support yourself financially

Answer honestly and briefly. Have your eTA and passport ready. If all documents are in order, you will be stamped in and allowed entry.

Potential Issues at Immigration

Immigration officers may deny entry if:

• Your printed eTA is not presented (digital-only copies may not be accepted)
• Your passport is damaged or has less than 6 months validity
• You cannot prove accommodation or financial means
• Your eTA has expired (remember: valid for 90 days from issuance, not arrival)
• You have a history of visa violations or overstays in other countries

Transit Visas: If You're Passing Through Kenya

If you're transiting Kenya for less than 3 days to reach another destination (e.g., Nairobi to Zanzibar), you may be eligible for a Transit Visa instead of the standard eTA. Transit visas cost $21 and require:

• Valid passport
• Onward flight itinerary showing your departure from Kenya
• Proof you will not leave the airport or transit area

However, most Brazilian travelers use the standard eTA even for transits, as it offers more flexibility and costs only $9 more.

Extending Your Stay or Returning to Kenya

Can You Extend Your eTA in Kenya?

The Kenya eTA cannot be extended once you arrive in Kenya. If you wish to stay longer than the days granted by immigration, you must apply for a traditional visa through Kenya's eCitizen portal before your current authorization expires.

Returning to Kenya After Your 90 Days

If you exit Kenya and wish to return within the same year, you have two options:

• Apply for a new eTA: You can submit a fresh eTA application for your next trip (each eTA costs $30–$100).
• Apply for a Multiple-Entry Visa: If you plan to visit Kenya multiple times in a year, the Kenya One-Year Multiple-Entry Visa allows unlimited entries within 12 months, though each continuous stay is limited to 90 days. This costs $101 and is available through the eCitizen portal.

Overstays: What Happens If You Stay Beyond Your Authorized Period

Overstaying in Kenya carries serious consequences:

• Fines: Kenya immigration levies daily fines for overstays (amounts vary; confirm current rates with Kenya's Directorate of Immigration Services)
• Deportation: Immigration can issue a deportation order and ban you from re-entering Kenya
• Entry ban: Future visa or eTA applications may be rejected; some countries maintain records of overstays that affect visa applications globally
• Passport stamp: Your passport will be marked, affecting future travel to other countries

If you realize you need to stay longer, visit Kenya's immigration office (eCitizen portal or in-person at the Directorate of Immigration) before your authorized stay expires and formally request an extension or new visa.

Common Mistakes That Lead to eTA Rejection

To avoid rejection, do not:

• Provide mismatched information: Ensure your passport number, name spelling, and date of birth are identical across all documents.
• Upload low-quality photos: Your selfie must be clear, in color, against a plain background, and taken within 6 months. Blurry, black-and-white, or heavily filtered photos are rejected.
• Omit supporting documents: For business or medical visits, always upload the required invitation or referral letter. Incomplete applications cause delays or denials.
• Apply with an expired passport: Your passport must have at least 6 months validity from your arrival date in Kenya.
• Use a third-party website instead of the official portal: Only apply at https://etakenya.go.ke. Fake websites steal money and personal data.
• Leave contact details blank: Kenya immigration uses your email and phone to communicate. Incorrect or inactive contact information causes missed approvals.
• Fail to print your eTA: Even if you have it on your phone, print a physical copy. Immigration may not accept digital-only versions.

Yellow Fever & Health Requirements for Brazilian Travelers

Kenya does not mandate Yellow Fever vaccination for entry, but it is strongly recommended if you are traveling from Brazil or have recently been in Brazil, as Brazil has Yellow Fever transmission zones. Many safari lodges and travel insurance providers recommend or require proof of vaccination.

Consult your doctor or travel clinic at least 4–6 weeks before departure to discuss malaria prophylaxis, typhoid, hepatitis A/B, and routine vaccinations. While not mandatory for eTA approval, vaccination records may be requested at accommodation check-in or by your travel insurance provider.

Traveling with Children: eTA for Brazilian Minors

All children, including infants, require their own eTA or visa to enter Kenya, even if traveling with parents. Each child must have:

• A valid Brazilian passport (valid for 6+ months)
• A separate eTA application (use the "Apply as a Group" option to streamline multiple applications)
• A passport-style photo

Children under 16 are sometimes exempt from visa fees in some countries, but Kenya's eTA system applies the same $30–$100 fee to all travelers regardless of age.

Planning Your Kenya Safari: What Comes After Your eTA

Once your eTA is approved and you've arrived in Kenya, you'll want to book your safari. SafariFind offers a curated marketplace of safari operators, lodges, and guided tours across Kenya's top destinations. You can browse and compare safari packages, read reviews from other travelers, and book directly with operators. Whether you're interested in the Maasai Mara, Amboseli, or Kenya's coastal conservation areas, SafariFind helps you find the right fit for your budget and interests.

Your safari investment also supports conservation: safari tourism directly funds wildlife protection and habitat preservation in Kenya. When you book through reputable operators, your fees contribute to anti-poaching efforts, community education, and ecosystem management.

Frequently Asked Questions

Do Brazilian citizens need a visa for Kenya?

Yes. Brazilian citizens require a Kenya eTA (Electronic Travel Authorization) before entering Kenya. The eTA is an electronic document, not a traditional visa stamp, and costs $30 for normal processing (3 business days) or $100 for expedited (same-day) approval. Holders of diplomatic, official, or service passports are exempt from the eTA fee.

How much does a Kenya eTA cost for Brazilians?

The Kenya eTA costs $30 USD for normal processing (up to 3 business days) or $100 USD for expedited processing (immediate approval). Diplomats and officials with service passports can apply for free (normal) or pay $100 for expedited processing. Fees are non-refundable.

How long does it take to get a Kenya eTA?

Normal processing takes up to 3 business days (72 hours). Expedited processing is immediate, often approved on the same day. Apply at least 2–3 weeks before your departure date to account for any verification delays.

How long is a Kenya eTA valid?

The eTA is valid for travel within 90 days from the date of issuance. Once you arrive in Kenya, the duration of your actual stay (up to 90 days) is determined by the immigration officer at your port of entry.

What documents do I need to apply for a Kenya eTA?

You need a valid Brazilian passport (6+ months validity, at least 1 blank page), a selfie or passport-type photo (taken within 6 months), your email and phone number, travel itinerary (arrival and departure dates), and accommodation booking confirmation. For business visits, add an invitation letter from your Kenyan host.

Can I apply for a Kenya eTA on my phone?

You can start your application on a phone or tablet via the official Kenya eTA website (https://etakenya.go.ke), but uploading documents is easier on a computer. Once approved, print your eTA—do not rely on a digital-only copy at immigration.

What if my Kenya eTA is rejected?

If rejected, you will receive an email explaining the reason (e.g., poor photo quality, missing documents, passport expiry). You can reapply immediately and must pay the fee again. Common rejection reasons include mismatched passport information, blurry photos, or incomplete supporting documents.

Can I extend my eTA once I'm in Kenya?

No, the eTA cannot be extended. If you need to stay longer than your authorized period, you must apply for a traditional visa through Kenya's eCitizen portal before your current authorization expires. Overstaying carries fines and potential deportation.

Do children need a Kenya eTA?

Yes, all children, including infants, require their own eTA. Each child's application costs the same as an adult ($30–$100). Use the "Apply as a Group" option to streamline multiple applications for your family.

Is Yellow Fever vaccination required for the Kenya eTA?

Yellow Fever vaccination is not mandatory for eTA approval, but it is strongly recommended for Brazilian travelers. Kenya does not require proof of vaccination for entry, but your travel insurance or safari lodge may request it. Consult your doctor 4–6 weeks before travel.

Can I use a digital copy of my eTA at immigration?

It is safest to print your eTA. While some immigration officers may accept digital copies on your phone, Kenya immigration officially requires a printed copy presented alongside your passport. Always print and carry your eTA document.

What happens if I overstay my authorized period in Kenya?

Overstaying results in daily fines, potential deportation, a future entry ban, and a negative passport mark that may affect visa applications to other countries. If you need to stay longer, request an extension or new visa before your current authorization expires.

Can I apply for a Kenya eTA if my passport has less than 6 months validity?

No. Your Brazilian passport must be valid for at least 6 months from your planned arrival date in Kenya. If your passport expires soon, renew it before applying for your eTA.

Frequently Asked Questions

Do Brazilian citizens need a visa for Kenya?

Yes. Brazilian citizens require a Kenya eTA (Electronic Travel Authorization) before entering Kenya. The eTA is an electronic document, not a traditional visa stamp, and costs $30 for normal processing (3 business days) or $100 for expedited (same-day) approval. Holders of diplomatic, official, or service passports are exempt from the eTA fee.

How much does a Kenya eTA cost for Brazilians?

The Kenya eTA costs $30 USD for normal processing (up to 3 business days) or $100 USD for expedited processing (immediate approval). Diplomats and officials with service passports can apply for free (normal) or pay $100 for expedited processing. Fees are non-refundable.

How long does it take to get a Kenya eTA?

Normal processing takes up to 3 business days (72 hours). Expedited processing is immediate, often approved on the same day. Apply at least 2–3 weeks before your departure date to account for any verification delays.

How long is a Kenya eTA valid?

The eTA is valid for travel within 90 days from the date of issuance. Once you arrive in Kenya, the duration of your actual stay (up to 90 days) is determined by the immigration officer at your port of entry.

What documents do I need to apply for a Kenya eTA?

You need a valid Brazilian passport (6+ months validity, at least 1 blank page), a selfie or passport-type photo (taken within 6 months), your email and phone number, travel itinerary (arrival and departure dates), and accommodation booking confirmation. For business visits, add an invitation letter from your Kenyan host.

Can I apply for a Kenya eTA on my phone?

You can start your application on a phone or tablet via the official Kenya eTA website (https://etakenya.go.ke), but uploading documents is easier on a computer. Once approved, print your eTA—do not rely on a digital-only copy at immigration.

What if my Kenya eTA is rejected?

If rejected, you will receive an email explaining the reason (e.g., poor photo quality, missing documents, passport expiry). You can reapply immediately and must pay the fee again. Common rejection reasons include mismatched passport information, blurry photos, or incomplete supporting documents.

Can I extend my eTA once I'm in Kenya?

No, the eTA cannot be extended. If you need to stay longer than your authorized period, you must apply for a traditional visa through Kenya's eCitizen portal before your current authorization expires. Overstaying carries fines and potential deportation.

Do children need a Kenya eTA?

Yes, all children, including infants, require their own eTA. Each child's application costs the same as an adult ($30–$100). Use the "Apply as a Group" option to streamline multiple applications for your family.

Is Yellow Fever vaccination required for the Kenya eTA?

Yellow Fever vaccination is not mandatory for eTA approval, but it is strongly recommended for Brazilian travelers. Kenya does not require proof of vaccination for entry, but your travel insurance or safari lodge may request it. Consult your doctor 4–6 weeks before travel.

Can I use a digital copy of my eTA at immigration?

It is safest to print your eTA. While some immigration officers may accept digital copies on your phone, Kenya immigration officially requires a printed copy presented alongside your passport. Always print and carry your eTA document.

What happens if I overstay my authorized period in Kenya?

Overstaying results in daily fines, potential deportation, a future entry ban, and a negative passport mark that may affect visa applications to other countries. If you need to stay longer, request an extension or new visa before your current authorization expires.