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Kenya Welcomes First Batch of 'Visa-Free' Tourists
Kenya has welcomed the first batch of foreign tourists who arrived under a simplified entry system that waives visa requirements for all travellers. The new system is expected to boost tourism in the country.
Visa Requirements Waived for All Visitors to Kenya
Kenya has officially waived visa requirements for all visitors, ushering in a new era of accessibility and convenience for tourists under the country's recently implemented visa-free entry system.
Previous Visa Requirements: Kenya previously required visitors from most countries to obtain a visa in advance through an application process including forms, documents and fees.
New Visa Exemption: Kenya has implemented a universal visa waiver program that removes these old visa requirements for all tourists and travellers to Kenya.
Open Access for All Nationalities: The new visa-free policy applies to citizens of every country around the world equally. No tourist visas are necessary anymore regardless of nationality.
Simplified Entry Permit: Under the waiver, an easy electronic travel authorization (eTA) is required instead at a small $30 processing fee but is much more convenient.
Hopes for Tourism Growth: Kenya hopes to boost tourism by eliminating prior bureaucratic visa hurdles through this streamlined, universal visa-free system.
New Electronic Travel Authorization (ETA) System Introduced
Here are the details on Kenya's new Electronic Travel Authorization system:
Replaces Tourist Visas: The ETA is required in place of traditional entry visas under Kenya's new visa waiver program starting in 2023.
Online Application: Travellers must submit an application form and register their details through the official government website to obtain their ETA.
3 Month Validity Period: Once issued, the electronic authorization remains valid for travel to Kenya over a 3 month period before requiring renewal.
Entry Permission: The ETA provides official clearance for entry into Kenya and should be presented to border officials on arrival similar to a regular visa.
Government Hopeful New System Will Boost Tourism Figures
Here are the details on Kenya's tourism growth hopes under the new system:
Goal to Increase Arrivals: A key driver for launching the visa-free scheme was boosting leisure and business visitor numbers and revenue.
2022 Tourism Figures: Last year Kenya welcomed around 1.54 million tourists, still below the 1.9 million arrivals received pre-pandemic in 2019.
Financial Year Target: With the simplified ETA and open access, officials hope to surpass 2 million annual tourist arrivals in the current 2023/2024 financial year.
Expected Growth Factors: By removing visa obstacles, a significant rise in travellers from across the global market is anticipated.
Economic Contribution: More visitors spell increased spending on accommodation, attractions, food and shopping, benefiting Kenya's tourism-reliant economy.
FAQS
When did Kenya introduce its visa-free entry system for tourists?
Kenya implemented its visa-free entry system for tourists on January 6, 2024.
Does this mean all tourists can visit Kenya without a visa now?
Yes, with the new visa-free entry system, all tourists, regardless of nationality, can visit Kenya without having to apply for a visa in advance. However, they are required to apply for an electronic travel authorization (ETA) online before their travel.
How long is an ETA valid for?
An ETA is valid for a period of three months from the date of issuance.
What are the eligibility criteria for an ETA?
To be eligible for an ETA, tourists must meet the following criteria:
They must have a valid passport that is at least six months old.
They must have a return or onward ticket.
They must have sufficient funds to support themselves during their stay in Kenya.
They must not have any criminal records.
What are the benefits of Kenya's visa-free entry system for tourists?
The visa-free entry system is expected to attract more tourists to Kenya, boosting the country's tourism industry. It will also simplify the travel process for tourists, making it more convenient to visit Kenya.
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