Launched in 2024, the eTA encountered immediate backlash — critics argued that it was essentially a visa under a different title, with doubts about its utility also surfacing. The cost of an eTA is set at $30/£24 and remains effective for a period of 90 days.
In its yearly visa report, the African Development Bank (AfDB) criticized Kenya's execution of the new system, pointing out that it substantially lowered Nairobi's standing regarding the simplicity of access for travelers from Africa.
Minister: Here is the impact of the eTA on Kenya—Kenya's position on the AfDB Africa Visa Openness Index fell from 29th to 46th place primarily because of the introduction of the eTA requirement. As a result, visiting Kenya became one of the biggest challenges among African nations in 2024.
The African Union and the African Development Bank are advocating for a visa-liberalized continent by 2025 to promote regional integration, trade, and economic development by eliminating mobility restrictions. "On January 21, 2025, the Cabinet endorsed suggestions aimed at enhancing the eTA system to increase efficiency and elevate the travel experience," stated Mr. Murkomen. "To back open sky policies and foster tourism expansion, the Cabinet suggested granting eTA waivers to citizens from all African nations with the exception of Somalia and Libya because of safety concerns." According to the most recent evaluation, the 17th Schedule enumerates 34 classifications of individuals who can now visit Kenya without needing an eTA.
As per the Kenya Citizenship and Immigration (Amendment) Regulations, 2025, individuals holding Kenyan permanent residency, active work permits, and re-entry passes, along with citizens from EAC member countries, are not required to obtain an eTA. "The government has issued an updated regulation stating that all Africans will be exempted from needing an eTA," stated Mr. Murkomen. This exemption also applies to those whose nations previously held visa-abolition pacts or similar mutual agreements prior to the implementation of the eTA system.
Why Kenya has returned to the planning stage with its electronic travel authorization system To encourage regional cooperation and simplify travel within Africa, travelers from most African nations can now have a two-month visit period, whereas East African Community members still benefit from a six-month stay as per the EAC open-movement guidelines. According to an AfDB report, this eTA initiative unintentionally introduced additional hurdles for those who wish to travel spontaneously, along with increasing expenses associated with traveling.
Last year, Tourism Cabinet Secretary Rebecca Miano recognized this, stating, "The eTA is notably more affordable compared to a visa and processes much quicker. Indeed, we have begun providing immediate eTAs." The African Development Bank (AfDB) further noted that conditions for obtaining an eTA—like needing verified travel plans and lodging arrangements—might impede effortless mobility and diminish the anticipated advantages of the program.
Residents of EAC member countries (excluding Somalia) can now visit Kenya without obtaining an eTA for stays up to 180 days. This information is provided by SyndiGate Media Inc. Syndigate.info ).
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