Kenya has introduced a new documentation requirement for travellers under 18 applying for an Electronic Travel Authorisation (ETA), with immigration authorities now requiring an official Parent/Guardian Consent Form as part of the application process.
The change replaces the previous practice of accepting self-written parental consent letters and is expected to affect families travelling to Kenya for leisure, business and safari holidays.
Official consent form now mandatory
According to an update from the Kenya Immigration Department, all ETA applications submitted for minors must include the prescribed Parent/Guardian Consent Form completed and signed by a parent or legal guardian.
Self-written consent letters will no longer be accepted.
The requirement applies to all travellers under the age of 18 and must be completed before the ETA application is submitted.
Travel advisors urged to brief families
Tourism operators are encouraging travel advisors to ensure clients travelling with children are aware of the new requirement to avoid delays in ETA processing.
The introduction of a standardised consent form is designed to streamline the application process while strengthening documentation requirements for minors entering the country.
Families who fail to submit the correct documentation may experience processing delays or requests for additional information from immigration authorities.
Additional step in pre-travel planning
The update adds another pre-departure consideration for travellers heading to Kenya, which continues to require visitors from many markets to obtain an ETA before arrival.
For the travel trade, the change highlights the importance of checking current entry requirements and ensuring all supporting documents are included when submitting applications on behalf of clients.
For more information, visit Kenya ETA Parent/Guardian Consent Form
ARTICLE SOURCE: Africa Beat News