Kenya streamlines travel requirements for African visitors

Kenya has announced a new directive allowing citizens from nearly all African countries to enter without prior authorization. This replaces the controversial Electronic Travel Authorization (ETA) system, which critics labeled a “visa under another name.”

The revised policy excludes Somalia and Libya due to security concerns. It aligns with efforts to promote regional integration, boost tourism, and ease travel across Africa.

Citizens of most African nations can now visit Kenya visa-free for up to two months, while East African Community (EAC) members, including Uganda, Tanzania, Rwanda, and Burundi, can stay for up to six months under EAC agreements.

Despite the introduction of the ETA, Kenya dropped 17 places to 46th in the 2024 Africa Visa Openness Index. Previously, visitors from over 40 countries could enter Kenya visa-free.

The ETA, costing US$30 and valid for 90 days, required applications at least three days before travel, a process criticized for deterring visitors.

The government has pledged to improve entry procedures, including instant approvals and a maximum processing time of 72 hours. It is also enhancing security measures and streamlining passenger screening at entry points.

The implementation timeline for these updates remains unclear, with ministries tasked to provide guidelines within a week.