By Capital News
NAIROBI, Kenya Jan 7 – Kenya says it has received a total of 9,787 applications for its Electronic Travel Authorization (ETA) system since launching a visa-free system.
Immigration PS Julius Bitok revealed that 4,046 of these applications have already been processed, while the remainder are currently under review, with priority given to applicants based on their travel schedules.
The ETA system aims to provide a fairer, faster, and more reliable process that aligns with Kenya’s security and strategic interests.
Before the ETA, citizens from 51 countries enjoyed visa-free entry to Kenya, while travellers from 155 other countries had to go through a visa application process that cost $50.
“We will continue to review and refine the ETA system to ensure it aligns with our clients’ convenience and supports our commitment to making Kenya a welcoming destination for visitors and investors. With the ETA system now in place, we proudly declare to the world: ‘Welcome Home!’” stated the Immigration PS.
Under the new system, travelers apply online for an electronic travel authorization (ETA) and pay a $30 “processing” fee.
Last year, President William Ruto announced that Kenya would become a “visa-free country,” waiving existing requirements starting in January.
However, it’s worth noting that as recently as last Tuesday, the Kenyan Civil Aviation Authority cautioned that the new ETA system was “in the process of development and implementation.”
Despite challenges, the number of tourist arrivals in 2022 increased to 1.54 million, although it remains below pre-pandemic levels, according to figures from the tourism ministry.
Kenya Tourism Board has expressed hope in November that the figure could surpass two million in the latest financial year, exceeding the 2019 figure of 1.9 million.
