Kenya eTA changes this year mark a major shift in travel policy as the government aligns with the African Union’s vision of a borderless continent. In a bold move announced by Interior Cabinet Secretary Kipchumba Murkomen, Kenya has revised its Electronic Travel Authorisation (eTA) system once again to exempt most African countries.
The Push for a Visa-Free Africa
The African Union (AU) and the African Development Bank (AfDB) have consistently advocated for a visa-free continent by 2025, aiming to unlock economic growth through regional integration and easier movement. The 2024 introduction of the Kenya eTA system, however, was initially met with backlash. Many critics labeled it a visa by another name, raising concerns over practicality and cost.
The $30 eTA fee, valid for 90 days, quickly became a pain point, particularly for African nationals who previously enjoyed easier access.
Kenya’s Drop in Visa Openness Rankings
Following the eTA rollout, the AfDB’s Africa Visa Openness Index ranked Kenya 46th, a significant fall from its earlier position of 29th. The drop made Kenya one of the most difficult African countries to visit in 2024.
The report blamed the Kenya eTA changes for creating barriers—especially for last-minute or spontaneous travelers—and for increasing travel costs with unnecessary documentation requirements like confirmed itineraries and accommodations.
Recent eTA Policy Revisions: A Turnaround
On January 21, 2025, the Kenyan Cabinet approved enhancements to the eTA system aimed at improving efficiency and supporting tourism.
Key Highlights of the Latest Kenya eTA Changes
- Exemptions granted to all African countries, except Somalia and Libya, due to security concerns.
- 34 categories of travelers are now excluded from the eTA requirement, according to the 17th Schedule.
- Citizens from East African Community (EAC) partner states are completely exempt from needing an eTA.
- Holders of Kenyan permanent residency, valid work permits, and re-entry passes are also exempt.
- EAC nationals continue to enjoy six-month stays, while other exempt African nationals receive a two-month stay.
“The government has released an update on the eTA to exempt all Africans… to promote regional integration and ease travel across Africa,” Mr Murkomen stated.
Reactions from Regional Stakeholders
The AfDB welcomed the revised policy, noting it as a step in the right direction toward eliminating travel barriers.
Previously, Tourism CS Rebecca Miano defended the system, highlighting that the eTA is cheaper and faster than a traditional visa. However, even she acknowledged the concerns around barrier creation, particularly for leisure and spontaneous travel across Africa.
Kenya Aligning With Continental Goals
By embracing a borderless travel framework, Kenya’s eTA policy now reflects the AU’s aspirations for seamless continental movement. This update not only aims to boost tourism but also strengthen intra-African trade and cooperation.
Long-Term Impact of the Kenya eTA Changes
Economic and Tourism Growth
The move is expected to increase tourist arrivals, especially from neighboring African nations. Easing access could translate into more intra-African tourism revenues and local job creation in Kenya’s hospitality and service sectors.
Enhanced Diplomatic Relations
Removing travel barriers helps build trust and cooperation among African nations, reinforcing Kenya’s role as a regional leader.
Support for AU’s Agenda 2063
The changes support Agenda 2063, the AU’s long-term vision for a united, integrated Africa, underpinned by unrestricted movement of people and goods.
A Strategic Pivot Toward Openness
With the latest Kenya eTA changes, the government demonstrates a renewed commitment to continental unity and economic integration. Though late, these reforms align Kenya with Africa’s broader vision of free movement and shared prosperity. If effectively implemented, they could help restore Kenya’s standing on visa openness rankings and attract both business and leisure travelers from across the continent.
