Measures to Enhance the Effectiveness of Kenya’s Newly Launched eTA

The government of Kenya recently announced a visa-free state for all foreign nationals seeking to enter the country, a decision aimed at increasing tourism by positioning Kenya as a preferred destination in the region. This announcement was largely welcomed by various stakeholders who praised the bold move by the government.

The visa-free regime took effect on 1 January 2024, and with it came the introduction of the Electronic Traveller Authorisation (eTA). The eTA requires that all travellers coming into Kenya apply for authorization at least three days before their flights into the country. Those who need it urgently can opt for a premium service option to obtain it earlier.

Benefits of using the eTA

Countries may find that there are inherent benefits to using the eTA related to matters of border management and security. Some include a streamlined border management process, enhanced security through pre-screening and simplified travel for eligible individuals.

Additionally, the eTA promotes efficiency, reduces paperwork and contributes to a more seamless travel experience.

Approaches for implementing the eTA around the world

In implementing the eTA as part of a broader border management strategy, many countries around the world have taken different but two tried-and-tested approaches.

The first approach is subject to only nationals of countries with which Kenya already has bilateral visa waiver agreements. Countries such as Australia, New Zealand, Canada and the United States follow this approach.

The second approach is to subject every traveller to the eTA as a replacement for a visa. Seychelles has championed this approach as a visa-free country in Africa, and Kenya followed in its footsteps. Although these countries claim to be ‘visa-free’, their eTA implementation is characterised by high fees, which have the potential to impede the mobility of people to the countries for tourism and business.

This point is illustrated below, as the following table provides a snapshot of various countries’ eTA validities and fees in comparison to Kenya.

Select countries’ eTA fees

Recommended measures to enhance the effectiveness of Kenya’s newly launched eTA

Since the implementation of the eTA, Kenya’s government has taken a cautious and incremental approach to ensuring that it operates efficiently.

One of the measures was the removal of some questions from the standard questionnaire and speedy consideration of eTAs from countries that were initially visa-exempt.

While these measures are helpful, they are cosmetic and are not robust enough to contribute to the effectiveness of the eTA.

The following recommended measures are important to making the eTA effective and having a positive impact on tourism and business in Kenya:

• Review the eTA fee. The current fee is quite high and does not consider the countries that initially had bilateral visa waiver agreements with Kenya. In effect, a visa has been imposed on those nationals by stealth in place of waiving it for the collection of data for pre-clearance purposes.
• Reduce the eTA cost for applicants. The current cost for the eTA in Kenya is USD 30. In comparison to other countries with similar eTAs, it follows Seychelles in its exorbitance. Indeed, premium service can be used to improve or pay for the enhancement of the system. A sliding fee can be worked out in that regard.
• Increase the validity of the eTA. To ensure that the eTA can contribute towards the increase of tourism to the country, its validity must be changed from the current 30 days to two or three. This validity period will be in line with the many countries around the world that implemented the eTA as a pre-clearance and security measure. Additionally, it would give applicants much-needed value for their money. 
• Security measures. The government must ensure robust authentication and screening processes to enhance national security and prevent unauthorized entry.
• User-friendly interface. The portal must be an intuitive online system for easy application and payment, fostering a positive experience for travellers. The applicable fees must not be seen as prohibitive as to bar potential tourists.
• Privacy protection. Measures must be implemented to safeguard applicant data, complying with privacy regulations to build trust in the system.
• Communication and education. eTA requirements should be effectively communicated to the public, and educational materials should be provided to help travelers understand the process. Additionally, the eTA system's performance should be regularly viewed, with areas for improvement identified and policies adapted as needed.
• Flexibility. Flexibility in the eTA system should be considered to accommodate various travel purposes and adjust policies based on changing circumstances.
• Legal framework. A solid legal framework should be established that defines the scope, limitations and enforcement mechanisms of the eTA policy.
• Collaboration with airlines. Close collaboration with airlines is important to integrate the eTA process into ticketing systems, ensuring a smooth travel experience.

Future eTA success in Kenya

Many feel that the eTA remains the best tool for enhancing the mobility of travellers to Kenya, and its potential for contributing to the country’s national security is unquestionable.

Additionally, its success hinges largely on, among other things, implementing the above measures by working with the eTA developer, partner government, public and stakeholders in the business and tourism sectors throughout its implementation process.

Need to know more?

For questions on Kenya’s newly launched eTA, please contact Directors Willys Mac’Olale at [email protected] and Johannes Tiba at [email protected].

This blog was published on 7 February 2024, and due to the circumstances, there are frequent changes. To keep up to date with all the latest updates on global immigration, please subscribe to our alerts and follow us on LinkedIn, X, Facebook and Instagram.