Kenya has announced a major policy shift to allow citizens from almost all African nations to visit without requiring prior authorization, according to a recent cabinet directive.
Previously, Kenya operated under a “visa-free” arrangement, which still mandated most travellers to obtain an Electronic Travel Authorisation (ETA) online before travelling. However, the ETA system was criticized as merely a rebranded visa.
The cabinet revealed on Tuesday that the ETA requirement will now be scrapped for visitors from the African continent, except Somalia and Libya, citing security reasons. The decision is part of broader efforts to foster regional unity, boost tourism, and advance the continent’s open skies initiative.
Kenya’s adoption of the ETA system had earlier led to a significant drop in its standing on the Africa Visa Openness Index, falling 17 places to rank 46th out of 54 countries. By easing entry requirements, the country aims to reverse this trend and align with other African nations pushing for simpler travel regulations.
Several African countries have already taken similar steps. Ghana recently waived visa requirements for all African passport holders, and Rwanda continues to permit entry for Africans without visas. These moves echo the African Union’s call for enhanced intra-continental travel.
Under the revised rules, visitors from most African nations will be eligible to stay in Kenya for up to two months without needing prior approval. Citizens of East African Community member states such as Uganda, Tanzania, Rwanda, and Burundi will be allowed to stay for up to six months, reflecting the bloc’s integration policies.
The Kenyan government also plans to introduce a faster entry process, with approvals available instantly or within a maximum of 72 hours. Ministries have been tasked with proposing detailed measures to improve airport experiences within a week.
Prior to the introduction of the ETA, visitors from over 40 nations, many within Africa, could enter Kenya freely, without advance applications or fees. The ETA fee of $30, valid for 90 days, has faced criticism for complicating travel and potentially discouraging visitors.
Kenyan officials have defended the ETA system as a necessary security measure, citing risks posed by al-Shabab militants from neighbouring Somalia, who have targeted the country in high-profile attacks.
To balance accessibility with safety, the government has promised to implement advanced pre-screening protocols to “enhance security and streamline entry processes” for travellers at all Kenyan airports. This change is expected to facilitate smoother travel while addressing security concerns.
