Kenya to Impose Local Health Insurance Requirement for Foreign Visitors

Kenya has been considering the introduction of a local health insurance requirement for foreign visitors as part of broader healthcare reforms. While discussions and legislative proposals have taken place, no mandatory requirement has been formally implemented at this stage. The topic continues to be reviewed within the framework of national healthcare policy planning and legislative debate.

This blog outlines the rationale behind the proposal, the related legislative developments, and its potential implications for healthcare access and tourism in Kenya.

The Need for a Health Insurance Requirement

With more than 1.5 million foreign visitors arriving in Kenya each year, policymakers have highlighted the importance of ensuring access to healthcare services during temporary stays. Although Kenya offers a functioning healthcare system, gaps in coverage for visitors have prompted discussion around structured insurance access.

The proposal aims to improve access to medical care while reducing pressure on public healthcare facilities.

Legislative Developments

The Parliament’s National Assembly Health Committee has been reviewing amendments linked to the Social Health Insurance Bill of 2023. These discussions form part of a wider reform agenda involving the National Health Insurance Fund (NHIF), which manages public health insurance coverage.

The proposed amendment has been positioned as a mechanism to strengthen healthcare financing and improve system sustainability.

A Step Towards Universal Health Coverage (UHC)

The proposal aligns with the government’s stated objective of achieving universal health coverage, as articulated by President William Ruto. Expanding healthcare access through structured insurance participation remains a central policy goal.

Initial discussions suggested that mandatory participation could apply to foreign residents staying in Kenya for extended periods, rather than short-term visitors, particularly in cases exceeding one year of residence.

International Precedents

The discussion in Kenya mirrors practices adopted in other regions. Several Schengen countries require travellers to hold travel health insurance as a condition of entry. Such requirements are already established across multiple European jurisdictions.

These precedents have been referenced in Kenyan policy discussions as examples of how healthcare access for visitors can be structured.

Impact on Tourism

Tourism remains a key contributor to Kenya’s economy, drawing visitors for wildlife, cultural heritage, and coastal travel. In 2025, international arrivals continued to reflect strong interest in Kenya as a destination.

Policy discussions around health insurance have been framed as potentially beneficial to tourism by:

• Improving visitor confidence in accessing healthcare
• Supporting coverage for non-emergency medical situations
• Encouraging longer stays for work, study, or retirement
• Supporting healthcare system funding through structured contributions

No changes to current entry procedures for short-term visitors have been announced.

Legislative Progress and Broader Healthcare Reforms

In addition to the Social Health Insurance Bill of 2023, Parliament has reviewed other healthcare-related proposals, including:

• Digital Health Bill of 2023
• Facility Improvement Financing Bill of 2023
• Primary Healthcare Bill of 2023

These Bills aim to improve healthcare delivery, funding, and coordination across the public and private sectors.

Contributions to the National Health Insurance Fund (NHIF)

Discussions have also included possible NHIF contribution requirements for foreign residents. These proposals are intended to strengthen the fund’s financial stability and address historical challenges related to reimbursement delays and fraudulent claims.

Any such measures remain subject to legislative approval and regulatory guidance.

Exploring the Beauty of Kenya

Alongside healthcare reform discussions, Kenya continues to attract visitors for its diverse travel experiences. Popular destinations include:

• Masai Mara: wildlife viewing and seasonal migration
• Fort Jesus: historical heritage in Mombasa
• Mount Kenya: trekking and high-altitude landscapes
• Lake Nakuru: birdlife and natural scenery
• Watamu: coastal relaxation and marine life
• Laikipia: conservation-focused travel experiences

Conclusion

Kenya’s discussions around a local health insurance requirement reflect broader efforts to strengthen healthcare access and long-term system sustainability. While legislative proposals have been reviewed and debated, no mandatory health or medical insurance requirement has been introduced for foreign visitors at this time.

As of 2026, foreign travellers applying for and travelling under the Kenya eTA are not required to hold mandatory medical or health insurance.

Visitors should continue to monitor official announcements for any future policy updates.