Kenya Drops Visas—But Now Requires an ETA

The President of Kenya, William Ruto, has announced the removal of visa requirements for all foreign visitors starting January 2024. However, they will first need to obtain an Electronic Travel Authorization (ETA) before entering the country.

Visa-free entry to fast-track Kenya’s appeal

Kenya—long celebrated as the cradle of humanity for its archaeological riches—will throw its doors wide open to tourists worldwide by scrapping visa requirements from January 2024. The landmark decision, announced by President William Ruto on Jamhuri Day, aims to welcome visitors to their “home” more easily, without burdensome bureaucracy.

• Visa withdrawal: from January 2024, all foreign visitors will be exempt from visa requirements to enter Kenya.

• Introduction of a mandatory Electronic Travel Authorization: despite the visa exemption, travellers must secure an ETA prior to arrival.

• Launch of a digital platform: the Kenyan government is building an online system to pre-screen visitors planning trips to the country (exact URL still undisclosed).

https://twitter.com/citizentvkenya/status/1734530005630177430

Electronic Travel Authorization to become universal for all visitors

Despite abolishing visas, one administrative step remains: securing an Electronic Travel Authorization (ETA) before travel. President William Ruto confirmed a new digital portal will open for ETA applications. Fees are expected to be 4600 KSH (currency converter), and may ultimately generate more revenue for Kenya than the current visa system does for some nationalities.

Watch for official decrees and ETA platform rollout

Until the decrees are published and the new digital ETA platform goes live, postpone finalising Kenya travel plans. Once operational in 2024, Kenya will become the fifth African nation to abolish visa requirements for Africans—and will go further by exempting all international visitors.