Kenya Embraces Borderless Vision with New eTA Exemptions

Nairobi, Kenya – July 18, 2025 – Interior Cabinet Secretary Kipchumba Murkomen has announced that citizens from over 50 countries are now exempt from Kenya’s Electronic Travel Authorisation (eTA) requirement.

This update modifies the eTA system launched in 2024. The original policy faced criticism for its $30 fee and 90-day validity period. The new exemptions align Kenya with the African Union’s objective of continental free movement.

List of Countries Excluded from the Kenya eTA Requirement 

Citizens of the following nations may enter Kenya without an eTA for periods ranging from 90 to 180 days:

Note: Travellers should verify current requirements on the official Kenya immigration website, as the list is subject to change.

The Decision was made…

To Address Public Backlash: Responds to grievances from travellers who previously enjoyed visa-free entry but were burdened by new fees.

To Repair Regional Standing: Aims to restore Kenya’s ranking in the Africa Visa Openness Index following a recent decline.

To Promote African Integration: Supports the African Union’s vision for free movement and the African Continental Free Trade Area (AfCFTA).

To Boost Tourism and trade: Remove financial and administrative barriers for international visitors and business travellers. 

Enduring Requirements for Non-Exempt Travellers

Citizens from non-exempt regions, including the US, UK, EU, and most of Asia, must still follow these protocols:

1. Application: Submit details via the official Kenya eTA portal.
2. Documentation: Provide a passport (valid for 6+ months with one blank page), a recent photo, travel itinerary, and accommodation proof.
3. Processing: Pay the required fee. Applications take 3-5 Days to process and should be submitted at least one week before departure.
4. Entry: Approval is issued as a PDF. Final entry remains at the discretion of immigration officers at the border.

Kenya's Bold Step Towards Borderless Travel

By removing these travel barriers, Kenya is positioning itself as a central hub for intra-African movement. These exemptions are intended to stimulate the economy, increase tourism revenue, and simplify the entry process for a significant portion of global travellers.