Important travel advisory for visitors to Kenya
Travelling to Kenya? Please be aware of the new Mandatory Inbound Travel Health Insurance requirement outlined in Gazette Notice No. 11492 of 2026, issued by the Cabinet Secretary for Health.
Africa Keys recommends that all guests travelling to Kenya review the applicable requirements before departure, including those who have already booked their safari.
Who does this requirement affect?
According to the circular, the requirement applies to foreign visitors staying in Kenya for less than 12 months and entering through airports, seaports or land borders.
The circular identifies the following exemptions:
- Citizens of the East African Community (EAC).
- Kenyan residents.
- Children under three years of age.
Travellers applying for a new eTA are currently directed to purchase the required insurance through the application process.
What does the insurance cover?
The stated minimum total benefit is up to USD 50,000 per person, including:
- Medical expenses: Up to USD 20,000
- Emergency medical transportation: Up to USD 25,000
- Prescribed medicines: Up to USD 300
- Mental illness: Up to USD 1,000
- Repatriation of mortal remains: Up to USD 5,000
Please refer to the applicable policy wording for conditions, exclusions and benefit limits.
Where can travellers purchase the insurance?
The circular states that the insurance is available through the official Kenya eTA application process, at a stated cost of USD 44 per person, plus applicable system charges.
Travellers with existing eTAs are advised in the circular to check the applicable process through Kenya’s eCitizen services.
Official resource: Kenya Electronic Travel Authorisation portal
Fees and application procedures should be checked on the official portal before applying.
Does this replace personal travel insurance?
No. The mandatory inbound insurance described in the circular is separate from your personal travel insurance.
Africa Keys recommends that guests maintain comprehensive travel insurance appropriate to their itinerary, including relevant medical, evacuation, cancellation, and baggage protection.
What information should travellers prepare?
Travellers may need the following information during the application process:
- Valid passport details
- Travel and arrival dates
- Purpose of visit
- Basic personal information
- Other supporting information requested by the official application portal
What about guests who have already booked?
Guests planning to travel to Kenya from October 2026 onwards, including those with existing bookings or eTAs, should check the latest official requirements before departure.
Please contact Africa Keys if you need assistance understanding how this update may affect your safari arrangements.
Important notice
This advisory is provided for general travel information and should be read alongside current guidance from the relevant Kenyan authorities. Requirements, eligibility, exemptions, premiums and application procedures may change. Travellers should confirm the latest rules through official government channels before travelling.
Planning a Kenya safari? Contact Africa Keys for assistance with your travel arrangements.
