Kenya Embraces a Visa-Free Future: A Bold Move Towards Globalization

Kenya’s decision to remove traditional visa requirements for international travellers from January 2024 marked a clear shift in how the country manages entry. Under this policy, visitors no longer apply for a conventional visa. Instead, most travellers must obtain an Electronic Travel Authorisation (eTA) before departure.

The policy, announced under the leadership of President William Ruto, reflects Kenya’s intent to improve accessibility while maintaining border control through advance digital screening.

Entry Procedures: From Visa Applications to eTA Approval

Under the revised system, the earlier visa application process no longer applies. Travellers are now assessed through a digital authorisation platform before travel. Once approved, the eTA confirms eligibility to enter Kenya under the permitted stay conditions.

This approach allows authorities to review traveller details in advance while reducing administrative barriers at the point of arrival.

"Tobong’u Lorre!": A Universal Welcome

President Ruto referenced the Turkana expression “Tobong’u Lorre!”, meaning “Welcome Home”, when outlining the policy direction. The phrase reflects Kenya’s intention to present itself as open and accessible while continuing to regulate entry through structured authorisation.

Connecting the Dots: Air Travel Options for Indian Travelers

For travellers from India, access to Kenya is supported by established air routes. Flights connecting major Indian cities with Nairobi are operated by international and regional airlines, subject to schedule availability. This connectivity supports tourism, business travel, and short-term visits under the eTA framework.

Travellers should always confirm flight schedules with the airline before planning travel.

A Broader Shift in Global Entry Policies

Kenya’s approach follows a wider international movement toward simplified entry systems. Several countries have moved away from traditional visas in favour of electronic authorisation models that allow pre-travel screening while reducing in-person processing requirements.

These systems aim to balance accessibility, security, and administrative efficiency.

Kenya eTA Structure and Validity

Following the policy change announced in late 2023, Kenya operates its entry system through the Electronic Travel Authorisation (eTA) framework.

Under this structure:

• A 90-day Kenya eTA is available for short-term visits.
• A 1-year Kenya eTA is available for travellers requiring longer-term access within permitted conditions.

Applicable charges and updates are listed on the Kenya eTA fee page.

Travellers planning to remain in Kenya beyond the authorised stay period must follow the applicable extension procedures. 

Conclusion

Kenya’s move away from traditional visas represents a policy change in how entry is managed, not a removal of travel controls. The eTA system continues to regulate access through advance authorisation while reducing procedural complexity for travellers.

As of 2026, Kenya’s eTA process continues to operate under the same framework introduced in 2024, with no structural changes to eligibility or application flow.

“Tobong’u Lorre!”, Welcome Home.