Kenya to scrap visas for all visitors from 2024, says President Ruto

IndiGo and Kenyan Airlines operate direct flights from Mumbai to Nairobi.

Visitors to Kenya from across the world will no longer require a visa from January 2024.

President William Ruto said his government has developed a digital platform to ensure that all visitors receive electronic travel authorisation in advance, eliminating the requirement to apply for a visa. An electronic travel authorisation will be granted to foreign nationals visiting Kenya. Ruto said a visa-free regime aligns with his administration's quest to boost the growth of tourism and borderless commerce.

"Beginning January 2024, Kenya will be a visa-free country. It shall no longer be necessary for any person from any corner of the globe to carry the burden of applying for a visa to come to Kenya," Ruto said. Earlier, he had announced his plan in Congo, while speaking at a conference in October. Ruto also backs visa-free travel within the African continent. IndiGo and Kenyan Airlines operate direct flights from Mumbai to Nairobi, and Air India flies to Nairobi from New Delhi.

Also Read: Australia plans to halve migrant intake, tighten student visa rules

According to an Economic Times report, Ruto revealed that this decision came after bilateral talks with Indonesian leader Joko Widodo on August 21. Indonesia joined Senegal and Congo as nations with which Kenya has visa-free agreements. Comoros may also sign a similar agreement with Kenya by the end of the year.

Countries such as Thailand, Sri Lanka, and Malaysia have relaxed visa requirements for Indian travellers over the last few months. IndiGo and Kenyan Airlines operate direct flights from Mumbai to Nairobi. Air India flies to Nairobi from New Delhi.

Known for its wildlife and scenic landscapes, Kenya has some famous tourist spots such as Maasai Mara National Reserve, Baboon Cliff View Point, Ngare Ngare Forest, and others.

Recently, South Africa's Tourism Minister Patricia de Lille, pushed for visa-free travel for Indian and Chinese travellers. She said, "Visas are a problem. I see my role as dealing with regulations, the visa issues, regulations around tour operating licenses and then air access, getting more flights to come to South Africa." The government has identified development of the tourism industry as key to reducing a 33% unemployment rate but has long faced criticism that it makes it too difficult to enter the country.”