Kenya has clarified its mandatory travel health insurance requirement for foreign visitors. In a statement issued by Kenya’s Ministry of Health on August 7, 2026, the government confirmed that foreign travellers entering Kenya must have travel health insurance that meets the required coverage levels.

Travellers can use insurance purchased in their home country if it meets Kenya’s requirements. Those who need a Kenya ETA will also be required to provide proof of insurance as part of the ETA application process.

What Is the New Insurance Requirement?

Foreign visitors staying in Kenya for less than 12 months must have travel health insurance that meets the required coverage levels.

The insurance must provide at least US$50,000 in total coverage, including the following minimum amounts for each:

Note: These are the minimum coverage amounts required under Kenya's insurance rules. They are not the amount travellers have to pay for the insurance policy.

Can You Use Your Existing Travel Insurance?

Yes. Travel insurance purchased in your home country will be accepted if it meets Kenya’s minimum coverage requirements mentioned above. You will not need to purchase a separate policy in Kenya.

Travel Insurance Requirements for Kenya eTA Applicants

For travellers who need a Kenya eTA, proof of qualifying travel insurance must be submitted along with the other documents required for their eTA type.

The exact date when the insurance upload requirement will be added to the eTA system has not yet been announced. Travellers are advised to keep their insurance document ready to avoid delays.

What If You’re Exempt from the eTA Requirement?

Travellers who are exempt from the ETA may still be required to have valid travel insurance, as the insurance requirement applies separately from the eTA rules.

Kenya Allows Travellers to Buy Insurance Upon Arrival

A valid travel insurance policy can also be purchased at a Kenyan point of entry from an authorised insurer if you do not have one before departure.

It is still best to arrange your insurance before travelling and check the latest entry requirements to avoid any issues on arrival.

What Travellers Should Do and Avoid

Do:

• Check your policy terms before booking your trip.
• Save a digital and printed copy of your insurance certificate.
• Keep your insurer’s contact details with your travel documents.
• Check for any updates before your departure date.

Avoid:

• Relying only on a screenshot of your insurance details.
• Assuming your regular health insurance covers travel to Kenya.
• Leaving document checks until the day of travel.
• Travelling without knowing how to contact your insurer in an emergency.

Note: Travel requirements may change. Check the latest entry requirements with the relevant authorities before travelling to Kenya.