Kenya has scrapped visa requirements for citizens of all African countries except Somalia and Libya, and most Caribbean nations, a significant shift aimed at strengthening regional ties and boosting tourism.
Travellers from these countries are no longer required to apply for an Electronic Travel Authorization (ETA), fill out arrival forms, or pay visa fees. The change means eligible visitors can now enter the country by simply presenting themselves at the border.
“As part of efforts to support open skies policies and tourism growth, a key proposal is to grant ETA exemptions to all African countries, except Somalia and Libya, due to security concerns,” a statement from the cabinet said.
Under the new rules, African nationals may stay in Kenya for up to two months. Citizens of the East African Community (EAC) will continue to benefit from six-month stays under existing regional movement protocols.
The move comes as part of President William Ruto’s broader push to ease intra-African travel and deepen continental integration. He said that making it easier for people to cross borders would help strengthen Kenya’s political and economic relationships across Africa.
“Simplifying entry procedures will make it easier for travellers to move across borders, strengthening ties between Kenya and the rest of the continent,” said Ruto.
The government also announced a series of new measures to support the visa-free regime, including a plan to roll out a passenger information system aimed at tightening border security and expediting arrivals. The system will enable authorities to pre-screen passengers and process entry approvals instantly or within 72 hours, depending on capacity.
In parallel with the visa policy changes, Kenya is also targeting the global remote workforce. In October 2024, Ruto announced the launch of a digital nomad visa, allowing remote workers to live and work in Kenya.
“We are expanding our cyber optic footprint to allow tourists to remain connected to the internet and work, even as they explore different parts of the country,” he said.
To cater to transit passengers, the government is also introducing a 12-hour electronic travel authorisation, enabling travellers with layovers to leave the airport and visit local attractions before continuing their journey.
“Individuals with connecting flights do not have to wait at the terminals. Instead, they will be able to explore various cities and attraction sites,” said Ruto.
While Libya and Somalia remain excluded from the visa waiver due to what the government calls ongoing security concerns, officials said the broader goal is to foster openness, boost tourism, and position Kenya as a travel hub for the continent.
