When applying for a Kenya eTA, visitors will be asked about their criminal history in their country of residence and abroad.
This article explains what to know before visiting Kenya with an existing criminal record. It also covers what eTA applicants need to tell the Kenyan authorities when filling in an application, and the possible police checks for traveling to Kenya.
Can You Go to Kenya with a Criminal Record?
Yes, it is possible to visit Kenya with a criminal record in many cases.
This ultimately depends on the severity of the crime committed, the amount of time that’s passed, and the applicant’s behavior since the original offense.
However, those who have been officially reprimanded for small one-time offenses committed many years ago may visit the country without restriction. They must meet Kenya’s entry requirements.
Whilst individuals with a history of minor offenses can enter the country as normal, those who have committed serious crimes either internationally or domestically can face barriers.
Examples of serious crimes
Passengers who have committed a serious crime in the past may be restricted from entering Kenya. This includes violent felonies, sex crimes, or other past behavior that could undermine the safety and security of the country and its people.
For example, serious crimes that could lead to refusal of entry include:
- Terrorist activity
- Arms smuggling
- Significant financial fraud
- Violent crime
- Drug trafficking
- Sexual assault
Additionally, people with a history of committing immigration offenses, such as entering a country on a false passport or overstaying an eTA, may have applications for eTAs or visas rejected or be refused entry into Kenya.
Can I Get a Kenya Electronic Travel Authorization with a Criminal Record?
You may be able to get a Kenya eTA with a criminal record for minor offenses. However, depending on the severity of past offenses, an eTA application may be denied.
There is also a chance that the eTA may be approved, but a Kenyan border control official may deny you entry to the country due to your past convictions.
Applying for a Kenya eTA with a criminal record
Completing an application form for a Kenya eTA with a criminal record is more-or-less the same as for any other passenger. It is a relatively simple process.
Applicants must provide personal and passport data and a passport-sized photo. They will also need to provide information including:
- Itinerary of the places they will visit in Kenya
- Hotel reservations and bookings
Additionally, visitors with a criminal record should indicate the offense that was originally recorded by the police on the form. The information entered will then be reviewed by immigration services and a decision given.
Is Your Criminal Record Attached to Your Passport?
Border officials in Kenya do not have automatic access to arriving passengers’ criminal record history. This information is not connected to a person’s passport and it is not possible for the authorities to run criminal record checks at a port of entry.
However, immigration officials have the final say on whether a visitor may or may not enter Kenya. If the guard on duty has a reasonable doubt about the passenger entering, they have the right to ask for further information or refuse entry.
Visiting Kenya with a minor criminal record does not prevent individuals from entering the country. However, it is important to provide immigration authorities with the most correct and accurate information.
