Switzerland citizens planning to visit Kenya need to obtain an electronic Travel Authorization (eTA) before their journey. This comprehensive guide covers everything Swiss travelers need to know about the Kenya eTA application process, requirements, and important travel information.

What is the Kenya eTA?

The Kenya eTA is an electronic travel authorization that Swiss citizens must obtain prior to traveling to Kenya. This digital visa replaced the traditional paper visa system to streamline the entry process for tourists and business travelers. As a Swiss citizen, you'll need to apply for this authorization online before departing for Kenya.

Type of Passport: Swiss Citizens Can Use to Visit in Kenya 

Swiss citizens can travel to Kenya using the following passport types:

Your passport must be valid for at least 6 months beyond your planned departure date from Kenya. Additionally, your passport should have at least two blank pages for entry and exit stamps.

When to Apply for Your Kenya eTA

As a Swiss citizen, you should apply for your Kenya eTA at least 3-7 days before your intended travel date. Kenya eTA for Switzerland Citizens, while the system often processes applications within 24-48 hours, it's recommended to apply earlier to account for potential delays or additional verification requirements.

The Kenya eTA remains valid for 90 days from the date of issue. During this period, you can enter Kenya at any time, but your actual stay in the country will be determined by the type of visa you've been granted.

Types of Kenya eTAs Available to Swiss Citizens

1. Tourist eTA: Valid for single or multiple entries with a maximum stay of 90 days.

2. Business eTA: For business-related activities, conferences, or meetings.

3. Transit eTA: For travelers passing through Kenya to another destination.

Information Required for Kenya eTA Application

As a Swiss citizen, you'll need to provide the following information when applying for your Kenya eTA:

Personal Information

• Full name (as it appears on your Swiss passport)

• Date of birth

• Gender

• Nationality

• Swiss passport number

• Passport issue and expiry dates

Travel Details

• Planned arrival date in Kenya

• Purpose of visit (tourism, business, transit)

• Accommodation details in Kenya (hotel reservations or host information)

• Return flight information

Smooth Application Process for Swiss Citizens

Most Visitors are confused about, we can apply at home Kenya ETA online application form. That answer is YES!. But what is the important document that needs to be applied?

1. You need to apply online for  Kenya ETA.

2. Upload the required documents (passport copy and photograph)

Photograph Requirements:

• Dimensions: The photo should be 5.5 cm x 5.5 cm (207 px x 207 px).

• Head Coverage: Your face should occupy 70-80% of the photograph. ​

• Background: Use a plain, white background without patterns or shadows. 

• Quality: Ensure the photo is in color, sharply focused, and free from ink marks or creases.

• Facial Expression: Maintain a neutral expression with your mouth closed, facing the camera directly.

3. Pay the processing fee: After these steps the last process is to pay the eta fee. Before this process we know about Eta fee for swiss citizens, generaly Kenya ETA fee depend on your stay at kenya or purpose of your work. Different purposes of travel fee are also defferent for visitors. Before Eta process, check your fee and for payment using a credit/debit card.

4. Check your email for the approved eTA (usually within 24-48 hours)

Email Communications:

After submitting your eTA application, you can expect to receive confirmation and updates via email. To ensure you don't miss any important communications:​

• Check Your Inbox Regularly: Keep an eye on the email address you provided during the application process for updates and confirmations.​

• Monitor Spam/Junk Folders: Occasionally, legitimate emails may be filtered into these folders. Regularly check them to ensure you haven't missed any correspondence.

5. Print a copy of your approved eTA to present at immigration.

Entry Requirements and Health Regulations

COVID-19 Measures

Requirements change frequently. Check the latest COVID-19 entry regulations before traveling.

Vaccinations

Swiss citizens should ensure they have the following vaccinations before traveling to Kenya:

• Yellow Fever (mandatory if traveling from a Yellow Fever endemic country)

• Recommended: Hepatitis A and B, Typhoid, Tetanus, and Malaria prophylaxis

Stay Duration and Extensions

With a standard tourist eTA, Swiss citizens can stay in Kenya for up to 90 days. If you need to extend your stay, you must apply for an extension through the Kenya Immigration Department before your authorized stay expires.

Important Travel Tips for Swiss Citizens

1. Travel Insurance: Obtain comprehensive travel insurance that covers medical emergencies and evacuation.

2. Currency: The Kenyan Shilling (KES) is the official currency. Credit cards are widely accepted in major establishments, but carry cash for smaller vendors.

3. Local SIM Card: Consider purchasing a local SIM card upon arrival for affordable data and calls.

4. Safari Planning: If planning a safari, book through reputable operators and follow wildlife viewing guidelines.

Entry Ports for Kenya eTA

Swiss citizens can enter Kenya with their eTA through these main ports of entry:

• Jomo Kenyatta International Airport (Nairobi)

• Moi International Airport (Mombasa)

• Eldoret International Airport

• Malindi Airport

Remember that your Kenya eTA is electronically linked to your Swiss passport. However, it's recommended to carry a printed copy of your approval for verification purposes at immigration. Safe travels to Kenya!