Kenya has scrapped the electronic travel authorisation (eTA) for incoming visitors from other African nations per a new directive issued by the State House on Tuesday.
The approval was given at the first cabinet meeting of the year, which was presided over by President William Ruto on Tuesday.
Somalia and Libya excluded
Despite relaxing its travel rules for African countries, Kenya withheld the eTA from Somalia and Libya citing “security concerns.”
“As part of efforts to support open skies policies and tourism growth, a key proposal is to grant eTA exemptions to all African countries — except Somalia and Libya — due to security concerns,” the statement said..
“This initiative aims to promote regional integration and ease travel across the continent.”
According to the statement, East African Community (EAC) like Uganda, Tanzania, Rwanda will continue to benefit from a six-month stay under the bloc’s free movement norms, but the majority of African tourists will only be permitted a two-month stay.
“To improve efficiency, an expedited eTA processing option will be introduced, allowing travellers to receive approval instantly, with processing time capped at 72 hours based on operational capacity,” the State House added.
“Additionally, the introduction of an Advanced Passenger Information/Passenger Name Record system will enhance pre-screening, strengthen security, and streamline passenger processing at entry points.”
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Enhancing travellers’ experience at all Kenyan airports
According to the statement, the cabinet gave the secretaries of the national finance, transportation, interior, and tourism departments a week to assess, report, and suggest recommendations for enhancing the traveller experience at all Kenyan airports.
Kenya implemented a “visa-free” policy last year, requiring tourists to register online for approval before departing their nations.
But the eTA, which eliminated the need for a visa for all travellers, was criticised for being a “visa by another name.”
The eTA fee, which is $30, is only valid for 90 days.