Mandatory travel insurance for Kenya
Dear travelers to Kenya! There is a new government regulation regarding mandatory inbound travel health insurance. As of October 2026, it is in effect for travel to Kenya. To ensure smooth tour planning and entry, we have compiled all the most important information, costs, and booking process for you.
The new features at a glance
As of October 2026, the Kenyan Government requires all foreign visitors to purchase government-issued inbound travel insurance before travelling to the country. This requirement is inextricably linked to Kenya’s electronic travel authorization (eTA) system, introduced in January 2024. The insurance is now a mandatory of the the eTA process, meaning travellers must obtain the required cover to secure their travel authorisation and prepare for entry into Kenya.
Costs and emergency protection
The mandatory inbound travel health insurance costs USD$ 44 per person. It provides basic medical coverage during your stay in Kenya. It covers unforeseen medical emergencies, necessary medications obtained locally, and emergency transport when required.
Important note regarding your own insurance:
The mandatory government-issued insurance is an entry requirement for Kenya, but it should not be seen as a replacement for your own travel insurance. It offers only limited protection and does not necessarily cover everything you need during your trip, including trip cancellation. We strongly recommend taking out comprehensive private travel insurance that covers medical expenses, emergency assistance and cancellation, giving you broader protection before and during your journey.
Step-by-step: How to apply for your insurance
Arranging your mandatory travel insurance for Kenya is straightforward. You can purchase it as part of the official government eTA application process, so there is no need to visit a separate portal. Alternatively, if you prefer to arrange your insurance separately, you can use Kenya’s official insurance website: insurance.ecitizen.go.ke. Below, we explain the steps to follow so you know what to do and how to complete the process.
1. Start your eTA application: Visit the official Kenya eTA portal and begin your application. Enter your personal details and follow the instructions to complete the initial steps.
2. Purchase and pay for your insurance: During the eTA application process, you will be prompted to purchase the mandatory inbound travel insurance. The cost is US$44 per person, payable as part of the application process. Follow the payment instructions provided in the official portal to complete this step.
3. Complete and pay for your eTA application: Only after the insurance has been successfully paid will you be redirected to the system to complete the eTA application. Finally, in a further payment step, you will pay the actual eTA fee (approx. USD 35).
4. Proof: You must then print the approved eTA confirmation in color and carry it with your travel documents in your hand luggage.
Please make sure that you meet all entry requirements to Kenya. The eTA, including the included insurance, is compulsory for entry into Kenya. Entry may be refused if the documents are not presented. The resulting costs are borne by the traveler himself.
Need help?
Further questions? Feel free to contact us.
Our Kenya Trips
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Entebbe - Biwindi Impenetrable Forest - Entebbe/Mabamba- Nairobi - Masai Mara - Nairobi
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