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Kenya eTA Application: Avoid These Mistakes for Faster Approval

3 min read

If you're planning a trip to Kenya, you’ll most likely need an eTA (Electronic Travel Authorization). This is a digital travel document — like a visa — required for most travelers visiting Kenya.You can apply on the official government site etakenya.go.ke, but many people get rejected or face long delays — even after paying extra. In this article, we’ll show you what to worry about, what not to worry about, and how to avoid stress by using our fast-track service at etaRush.com, which guarantees approval in 10–24 hours.

The Kenya eTA is an entry authorization linked to your passport. It’s 100% electronic — nothing gets stamped or mailed. It’s required for most foreign passport holders.

Application Options:

  • Standard Processing (Official Site): Promised in 72 hours, but can take up to 1–2 weeks

  • Expedited Option (Official Site): Costs $100 extra — but many still wait 2–3 days or more

✅ With etaRush.com, we fast-track your existing application and guarantee delivery within 10–24 hours — no reapplication needed.
We don’t ask for sensitive documents. Just send us your eTA reference number.
You’ll receive your approval directly from the official government email: donot_reply@ecitizen.go.ke (Not from us)

Many travelers get rejected over small technical issues. Here's how to avoid them:

1. Passport Information

Once you upload your passport photo, the system tries to automatically fill in:

  • Full Name

  • Date of Birth

  • Nationality

  • Passport Number

  • Issue & Expiry Dates

Problem: If your passport image is blurry, cropped, or low-quality, the system might extract the wrong information.
This can lead to automatic rejection.

✅ Solution: Upload a clear, straight image of your passport page. If it fails, try a better version.

What Is the Kenya eTA?

What to Worry About — and What’s Safe to Ignore

2. Selfie or Photo Upload

The system checks your photo using software. If it’s identical to your passport image, the system may reject it.

Use a different, recent passport-style photo:

  • Plain white background

  • No hats or filters

  • Full face, eyes open

3. Contact Information

You’ll be asked for contact information.

Don’t worry — if you make a typo, we can still help fix it during the process.

4. Trip Information

Includes your:

  • Airline and flight number

  • Country of departure

  • Hotel or place of stay

Problem: Some airlines don’t appear in the dropdown.

Solution: Just choose a similar airline. It doesn’t matter — we handle the details.

5. Customs Declaration

This part is about items you’re bringing into Kenya.

No stress — just answer truthfully. This won’t cause delays or rejection.

6. Required Documents (⚠️ Very Important)

This is the most common reason for rejection. You must upload the correct and clear documents.

Documents usually include:

  • Flight itinerary or ticket

  • Hotel booking or invitation letter

  • Supporting documents if required

❌ Don’t upload:

  • Blurry images

  • Fake or incomplete files

7. Confirm and Proceed

Simple final review before submitting. Make sure the details look good.

8. Choosing the eTA Type (Standard or Expedited)

⚠️ Important Advice:
Do not choose the “Expedited” option on the official site.
It costs $100 extra, but still doesn’t guarantee fast approval. Many users report waiting 2–3 days or longer.

Instead, submit your application as standard, then send us your reference number.
We’ll push your approval through in 10–24 hours for only $35 — no need to reapply.

Learn how our service works →

Got Rejected? We Might Still Be Able to Help

If your eTA application was rejected:

We’ll:

  • Review your rejection

  • Find out what went wrong

  • Try to fix and resubmit (small fee applies)

⚠️ While we can’t guarantee success after rejection, we’ll do everything possible to help.

Final Checklist: What Really Matters

Frequently asked questions

Is using the "Expedited" option on the official site the same as your service?

Yes and no. The government’s expedited option costs $100 extra, but we’ve seen delays and even rejections. Our service guarantees approval in 10–24 hours at a lower price, using your existing application.

What if my application was rejected?

We may be able to help. Contact us with your reference number. We’ll review your application and attempt a correction. A small fee applies, and success is not guaranteed.

What if I made a mistake on my application?

Small mistakes (like contact info or airline details) are usually fine. If you used our service, we cover you. Major issues like blurry documents or wrong passport details can cause rejection — but we may help fix it.

Can I still get help if I’ve already applied?

Yes. If you already applied and received a reference number, you can send it to us. We will fast-track and get it approved within 24 hours.

What documents are most important in the application?

Your passport copy and supporting documents (like hotel bookings or itineraries). Make sure they are real, clear, and complete — these are the top reason for rejections.