Kenya has effected the removal of visa requirements for nearly all African nationals, except Somalians and Libyans, allowing stays of up to two months, while East African Community (EAC) citizens may remain for as long as six months.
Previously, most African travellers had to obtain an Electronic Travel Authorisation (ETA) online before arrival.
The ETA system, introduced in 2024, cut the cost of a tourist visa from $50 to $30 but still required visitors to apply at least three days in advance and wait for approval.
For many Kenyans, this meant that relatives or friends planning surprise visits had to coordinate travel weeks ahead, adding uncertainty for family reunions and small‑scale traders.
The change places Kenya among a handful of African nations that already offered visa‑free access within the continent, including Ghana, Rwanda, Seychelles, the Gambia and Benin, and signals a drive to foster closer economic and social ties across Africa.
Until now, Kenya ranked 46th out of 54 countries on the African Visa Openness Index, having dropped 17 places over the last year as a result of stringent ETA requirements.
By removing pre‑arrival authorisation for most African nationals, the government aims to boost tourism revenue, simplify cross‑border trade and support regional integration.
More visitors from neighbouring states are expected at Kenya’s wildlife parks, coastal beaches and cultural festivals, offering opportunities for boda‑boda operators, small‑scale hoteliers and market traders to expand their customer base.
