Kenya has recently announced significant changes to its travel policies, simplifying entry for African nationals and bolstering regional integration. The new measures, unveiled during the first Cabinet meeting of 2025, aim to make travel across the continent easier and more efficient, marking a crucial step in Kenya’s commitment to tourism growth and fostering closer ties within Africa.
In a bid to enhance regional connectivity, the Cabinet revealed that visitors from most African countries will no longer need to apply for an Electronic Travel Authorization (eTA) to enter Kenya. This reform is designed to streamline the travel process and promote smoother movement across African borders. The new policy allows African nationals to stay in Kenya for up to two months without the need for a visa, significantly easing entry restrictions.
East African Community (EAC) nationals, including those from Kenya’s neighbouring countries, will continue to enjoy the privilege of a six-month stay, aligning with the EAC’s established free movement protocols. This move reflects Kenya’s ongoing commitment to strengthening cooperation within the EAC, encouraging not only economic collaboration but also social and cultural exchange.
However, the policy does not extend to all African nations. Somalia and Libya have been excluded from the exemptions due to ongoing security concerns in these countries. The government has been careful to balance open access with ensuring safety and security for both visitors and citizens, making security a priority in the implementation of this travel reform.
The initiative, introduced under the leadership of President William Ruto, was designed to complement Kenya’s broader tourism and regional integration strategies. In the Cabinet’s official statement, the government noted that the policy changes were part of an effort to make Kenya an accessible and attractive destination for visitors from across Africa. The Cabinet emphasized that the move would not only support tourism growth but also encourage intra-Africa travel, fostering greater connectivity across the continent.
As part of this reform, the government has introduced an expedited eTA processing option, which allows for faster approval of travel permits. Travelers can now expect to receive approval within 72 hours, depending on operational capacity, enhancing efficiency and reducing wait times. This rapid processing system aims to make traveling to Kenya more convenient, reinforcing the country’s standing as a key player in the African tourism sector.
Additionally, the implementation of an Advanced Passenger Information (API) and Passenger Name Record (PNR) system is set to bolster security and streamline passenger processing at Kenya’s entry points. The advanced system will help pre-screen passengers, ensuring that entry protocols are both secure and efficient.
In an effort to further ease the travel process, the Kenyan government has also waived eTA fees for several African countries, including Botswana, Eswatini, Ethiopia, Ghana, Lesotho, and South Africa, among others. This initiative highlights Kenya’s commitment to promoting tourism and regional collaboration by reducing financial barriers for travelers.
Moreover, the Cabinet has instructed various government departments, including the Treasury, Transport, Interior, and Tourism, to review the current traveler experience at Kenyan airports. A report is expected within a week, aiming to identify areas for improvement and enhance the overall experience for visitors.
This reform represents Kenya’s return to a more open and inclusive travel policy, reminiscent of the earlier system that allowed citizens from 51 African countries to visit without a visa. By making it easier for travelers from across Africa to visit, Kenya is not only boosting its tourism sector but also playing a pivotal role in promoting regional integration.
In conclusion, Kenya’s new travel policies are a clear indication of the government’s efforts to foster greater regional unity and ease travel across Africa. By simplifying the eTA process and removing barriers to entry for most African nationals, Kenya is poised to enhance its role as a key destination for both tourism and regional cooperation in Africa.
