Controversy Over Kenya’s Visa-Free Entry Policy

Kenya’s decision to offer visa-free entry to all foreigners has sparked controversy, with critics calling it “hectic.”

President William Ruto introduced the policy to promote visa-free travel within Africa.

However, Kenyan authorities clarified that visitors must obtain electronic travel authorization (ETA) by submitting documents and paying a $30 processing fee.

This requirement now applies even to citizens of countries that previously enjoyed unrestricted access to Kenya.

Over 9,000 visa applications have been received through the digital platform. Foreigners are expressing dissatisfaction, claiming the new policy has caused confusion and increased the difficulty and cost of travelling to Kenya.

Some Kenyans fear that stricter restrictions might lead to a boycott by some foreigners or reciprocal restrictions from other countries.