Kenya’s Cabinet has authorized a proposal to exempt travelers from Botswana, Eswatini, Ethiopia, Gambia, Ghana, Lesotho, Malawi, Mauritius, Mozambique, Sierra Leone, South Africa, Zambia, Comoros, Eritrea, and the Republic of Congo, and others from the eTA, aiming to promote open skies policies.
The meeting also approved recommendations to enhance the Electronic Travel Authorization (eTA) system to boost efficiency and improve the traveler experience.
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.
This initiative aims to promote regional integration and ease travel across the continent. Most African visitors will be allowed a two-month stay, while East African Community (EAC) nationals will continue to enjoy a six-month stay under EAC free movement protocols.
To improve efficiency, an expedited eTA processing option will be introduced, allowing travelers to receive approval instantly, with processing time capped at 72 hours based on operational capacity. 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.
