Mandatory Travel Health Insurance

Dear Travel Partner,

 

As of 6th October 2026, inbound travellers applying for a Kenya Electronic Travel Authorisation (ETA) need to show proof of Mandatory Travel Health Insurance before they can complete their ETA application. This is a new development which we are seeking further clarification on, but here’s what we know so far:

  • The ETA portal now requires mandatory travel health insurance before you can complete an application.
  • The insurance currently offered through the ETA system costs approximately USD 52 per traveller (that is USD 44 for the premium plus a USD 8 Convenience & Gateway Fee).
  • Travellers can also buy the insurance ahead of time on Kenya’s eCitizen portal. The ETA portal then recognises it automatically.
  • Travellers who already hold an approved ETA are not currently being asked to reapply, although immigration may still request proof of travel health insurance upon arrival in Kenya.
  • Travellers from ETA-exempt countries (for example, South Africa) are exempt from the insurance requirement for now.
  • No downloadable insurance policy is issued, so guests should keep their reference number and a screenshot of the “Valid” status on hand.

As this is a new requirement by the Kenya Ministry of Health, we will continue to monitor the situation and keep you updated via this page.

Thank you.