Kenya Introduces Mandatory Travel Insurance for Foreign Visitors

The Travel Journal | Safartime Travel

Planning a trip to Kenya? Travelers should be aware of a new entry requirement that could affect their travel budget and preparations. Since October 5, 2026, many foreign visitors entering Kenya have been required to purchase specific travel health insurance before their journey (VisasNews, 2026).

Who Needs the Insurance?

The requirement generally applies to non-Kenyan nationals visiting Kenya for less than 12 months, although certain exemptions apply. These include Kenyan citizens, valid Kenyan residents, citizens of East African Community (EAC) member states, and some other categories of travelers.

Importantly, being exempt from Kenya’s Electronic Travel Authorization (ETA) does not automatically exempt a visitor from the insurance requirement (VisasNews, 2026).

How Much Does It Cost?

According to VisasNews (2026), the current total cost through the official payment platform is:

Adults: US$48 per person

Eligible minors: US$25 per person

The insurance remains valid for 90 days and allows multiple entries into Kenya during its validity period, provided the policy remains active.

Can Your Existing Travel Insurance Be Used?

Travelers who already have insurance from the United States, the United Kingdom, or another country should note that foreign travel insurance is not currently accepted as a substitute for Kenya’s mandatory policy. Visitors covered by the requirement must obtain insurance through an approved Kenyan insurer (VisasNews, 2026).

The mandatory policy provides coverage for medical expenses, emergency medical transportation, prescribed medicines, mental health treatment, and repatriation of mortal remains, with cumulative benefits of up to US$50,000 per insured traveler.

How Do You Purchase and Verify It?

Eligible travelers can purchase the policy through Kenya’s official eTA portal as part of the application process, or separately through the eCitizen insurance service.

Airlines may check proof of insurance at check-in, while Kenyan immigration officers can verify the policy upon arrival. Travelers are therefore advised to keep a digital copy of their insurance certificate readily accessible throughout their journey (VisasNews, 2026).

Final Travel Tip

Before booking your next trip to Kenya, confirm whether you are subject to the new insurance requirement and include the cost in your travel budget. Keep your insurance documentation alongside your passport, travel authorization, and flight details to help ensure a smoother journey.

At Safartime Travel, we encourage travelers to stay informed about changing entry requirements and prepare their documents well before departure.

Reference

VisasNews. (2026). Kenya’s mandatory travel insurance: What visitors need to know. https://visasnews.com/