Kenya has announced a major shift in its travel policy, allowing citizens from nearly all African nations to visit without requiring prior approval, except for those from Somalia and Libya due to security concerns.
Previously, Kenya implemented an Electronic Travel Authorisation (ETA) system, effectively replacing the visa requirement for travelers. However, this system faced backlash for being a “visa under another name,” prompting the government to reconsider its approach.
In a cabinet statement released Tuesday, the government confirmed that the ETA requirement would be lifted for all African countries except Somalia and Libya. This decision is part of a broader effort to promote regional integration, support open skies policies, and boost tourism across the continent.
Despite the introduction of the ETA, Kenya’s ranking in the 2024 Africa Visa Openness Index dropped significantly, falling 17 places to 46th out of 54 countries. Other African nations, including Ghana and Rwanda, have been making strides to ease travel for intra-African visitors, with Ghana recently eliminating visa requirements for all African passport holders.
Under the new policy, citizens from most African countries can now stay in Kenya for up to two months without an ETA. East African Community members—Uganda, Tanzania, Rwanda, and Burundi—are allowed stays of up to six months, in line with regional agreements.
Additionally, Kenya plans to introduce an enhanced travel approval system, aiming to provide instant approval with a maximum processing time of 72 hours. However, the timeline for implementing this change remains unclear, as various ministries have been tasked with developing guidelines to improve the airport experience.
Before the ETA’s introduction, visitors from over 40 countries, including many African nations, could enter Kenya visa-free. Now, travelers must apply and pay a $30 ETA fee at least three days prior to their arrival, unless exempted. The ETA is valid for 90 days.
While the new system has sparked criticism for potentially complicating access to the country, the government has emphasized that it serves security purposes, especially considering past attacks by al-Shabaab militants from Somalia. The government also revealed plans to enhance security measures, including pre-screening and streamlined passenger processing at entry points.
