Kenya has formally eliminated visa requirements in all Africa and most Caribbean countries.
This means that citizens in these areas no longer need electronic travel approvals (ETAs), no longer need to complete a wide range of forms, and no obligation to pay visa fees.
Additionally, this allows eligible travelers to arrive at the border and enter the country without hassle.
However, as the government said, this privilege does not apply to Libya and Somalia due to security concerns.
Additionally, the new regulations allow African visitors to stay in Kenya for up to two months, while citizens of the East African Community (EAC) can enjoy a six-month stay in accordance with the existing Freedom Movement Agreement within the EAC.
The Cabinet has shown that the decision will help Kenya promote Open Sky policy and stimulate the growth of the tourism industry.
Additionally, President William Root believes that by simplifying the entry procedure, he will promote easy movements for travelers across borders, thereby strengthening the links between Kenya and the other continents.
In a notice issued in January 2025, the government announced that it would implement some additional measures to enhance the travel experience.
“As part of our efforts to support the growth of open skies and tourism, an important proposal is to grant ETA exemptions to all African countries except Somalia and Libya due to security concerns,” the Cabinet statement read in part.
Kenya has also committed to establishing measures that allow travelers to approve ETA approvals immediately or within 72 hours, depending on their operational capabilities.
Additionally, the government has pledged to introduce a new passenger information system aimed at improving pre-screening at the entrance, increased security and streamlined passenger handling.
In another memo, in October 2024, the president announced the launch of digital nomadic work permits that allow them to work remotely in Kenya.
Ruto said the government is expanding cyber vision compensation to allow tourists to maintain internet connections and work while discovering different parts of the country.
Additionally, he revealed the launch of electronic travel approvals that allow tourists to explore the country for 12 hours.
As a result, travelers with connected flights do not have to stay at the terminal. Instead, they can visit a variety of cities and tourist attractions.
Kenya has joined Ghana, Rwanda, the Seychelles, Gambia and the Republic of Benin to provide visa-free access to all African passport holders.
