Kenya Visa-Free Entry Delayed As New ETA System Underway

Travellers planning a Kenyan adventure in the new year will need to hold onto their passports for now.

Despite President William Ruto’s December announcement scrapping visa requirements for all visitors, the Kenya Civil Aviation Authority (KCAA) has clarified that the policy remains in limbo until a new Electronic Travel Authorization (ETA) system is finalized.

Status Quo Until ETA Changes Communicated

In a statement released Tuesday, the KCAA emphasized that the existing visa application process remains unchanged until the government communicates alterations to the Electronic Travel Authorization (ETA) system.

“All travellers coming to Kenya from countries that require visas shall continue applying for visas in the usual manner until the government communicates the change program to the ETA system,” the KCAA stated in an official statement.

ETA System Development in Progress

While addressing the nation, the KCAA highlighted that the ETA system is currently in the development phase. Once complete, it will be a mandatory step for all travellers coming to Kenya.

“Following the presidential directive that Kenya will be a visa-free country from January 2024, an Electronic Travel Authorization (ETA) system is in the process of development and implementation. The digital platform will ensure that all travellers to Kenya are identified in advance,” KCAA explained.

Must Read: 9 Major Visa Changes Taking Effect from January 1

Vision for a Visa-Free Kenya

President William Ruto’s announcement of Kenya becoming a visa-free country by January 2024 was made a few weeks ago. He expressed pride in Kenya being the home of humanity and underscored the nation’s rich heritage.

“It is with great pleasure, as President of this extraordinary country, to make a historic announcement of the decision of the Government of Kenya. Beginning January 2024, Kenya will be a visa-free country,” President Ruto declared.

To implement this new policy, a digital platform has been developed to streamline the process and ensure that all travellers to Kenya are identified in advance.

“All travellers will obtain electronic travel authorisation,” President Ruto affirmed, emphasizing the commitment to a seamless and efficient travel experience for visitors to Kenya.