Kenya Introduces Mandatory Travel Health Insurance for International Visitors
Planning a trip to Kenya? Make sure travel health insurance is on your checklist.
Kenya has introduced a mandatory Inbound Travel Health Insurance requirement for eligible international visitors entering the country. Effective 5 October 2026, travellers covered by the requirement must obtain the prescribed insurance before travelling to Kenya.
Whether you are visiting for a holiday, business meeting, conference, family visit or safari adventure, understanding this new requirement is an important part of preparing for your journey.
What Is Kenya’s Mandatory Inbound Travel Health Insurance?
Inbound Travel Health Insurance is a prescribed health insurance policy designed to provide eligible international visitors with financial protection against specified medical emergencies and related expenses during their stay in Kenya.
According to Kenya’s official [Inbound Travel Health Insurance Portal](https://insurance.ecitizen.go.ke/dashboard/travel), the policy provides benefits of up to US$50,000 per traveller, subject to the policy’s terms, conditions and benefit limits.
Who Needs to Obtain the Insurance?
The requirement generally applies to non-Kenyan visitors entering Kenya for short stays, including:
- Tourists visiting Kenya for holidays and safaris.
- Business travellers attending meetings, conferences and exhibitions.
- Individuals visiting friends and family.
- Eligible African nationals travelling to Kenya, including Ghanaian travellers.
- Eligible children and other dependants travelling with their families.
Certain categories are exempt, including Kenyan citizens, holders of valid Kenyan residence status, citizens of East African Community partner states and qualifying transit passengers who do not enter Kenya. Other specific exemptions may also apply.
Important for Ghanaian travellers: Ghanaian nationals are not exempt simply because they may qualify for an exemption from Kenya’s Electronic Travel Authorisation (eTA). Check your eligibility and insurance obligations before departure.
What Does the Insurance Cover?
The prescribed policy includes benefits for specified medical and emergency situations. The published benefit limits include:
- Medical expenses: Up to US$20,000.
- Emergency medical transportation and evacuation: Up to US$25,000.
- Repatriation of remains: Up to US$5,000.
- Prescribed medicines: Up to US$300.
- Specified mental health treatment: Up to US$1,000.
These benefits are subject to the policy wording, exclusions, authorisation requirements and applicable limits. Travellers should review the complete policy before purchasing.
How Much Does the Insurance Cost?
The official portal currently lists a premium of up to US$44 per person. The final amount should be confirmed through the official application process before payment.
The insurance is generally valid for up to 90 days, with multiple entries permitted within the applicable coverage period. Travellers planning longer stays should confirm the appropriate arrangements with the official provider.
How Can You Apply?
Travellers can obtain the prescribed insurance through Kenya’s official government channels.
Follow these steps:
1. Visit the [Kenya Inbound Travel Health Insurance Portal](https://insurance.ecitizen.go.ke/dashboard/travel).
2. Select your nationality and applicant category.
3. Provide the required passport information and other requested details.
4. Enter your travel dates, contact information and relevant itinerary details.
5. Review the premium and policy terms before making payment.
6. Obtain your issued insurance certificate and keep a digital copy accessible throughout your journey.
Travellers who require an eTA may be prompted to purchase the insurance during the eTA application process. Those who do not require an eTA may still need to obtain the insurance separately through the official portal.
Is Your Existing Travel Insurance Enough?
Not necessarily. The Kenyan authorities state that the prescribed inbound policy is a separate statutory requirement for travellers who fall within its scope. Your existing travel insurance from Ghana or another country does not automatically replace it.
You may therefore need both the prescribed Kenyan policy and your usual travel insurance, particularly if you require additional protection for trip cancellations, lost baggage, travel delays or other risks not covered by the inbound policy.
Before You Travel to Kenya
To prepare for your trip, make sure you:
- Confirm whether you need an eTA or other applicable entry authorisation.
- Obtain the mandatory inbound health insurance if you are required to have it.
- Verify that your insurance certificate has been issued and your cover is valid for your travel dates.
- Keep your passport, travel documents and insurance confirmation accessible.
- Review any additional travel insurance you may need for your personal circumstances.
Requirements and implementation guidance can change, so always verify the latest information through the official [Kenya Inbound Travel Health Insurance Portal](https://insurance.ecitizen.go.ke/dashboard/travel) before departure.
Let Jex Travel & Tours Help You Prepare
At Jex Travel & Tours, we believe that good travel planning starts well before departure. From flight bookings and accommodation to transfers, tours and travel documentation guidance, we help you prepare for your journey with greater confidence.
Planning a holiday, business trip or group tour to Kenya? Contact Jex Travel & Tours to discuss your travel arrangements and the documentation you may need.
*Disclaimer: This article is intended for general travel information and does not constitute legal or insurance advice. Eligibility, exemptions, premiums, coverage and entry requirements should be confirmed with the relevant Kenyan authorities and the official insurance provider before travel.*