Kenya Receives Over 9,000 ETA Applications Under Ruto's Visa-Free Scheme, Each Pays KSh 4,700

• President William Ruto's visa-free entry scheme continues to gain popularity among foreign citizens
• Kenya received the first batch of 2,141 foreign nationals on Friday, January 5, out of the 5,000 who had applied for the Electronic Travel Authorisation (ETA)
• Immigration and Citizen Service Principal Secretary (PS) Julius Bitok confirmed that Kenya has so far received more than 9,000 ETA applications

TUKO.co.ke journalist Wycliffe Musalia brings over five years of experience in financial, business, and technology reporting, offering deep insights into Kenyan and global economic trends.

The number of foreign nationals coming into Kenya via the visa-free entry programme has increased to more than 9,000.

President William Ruto's administration introduced the Electronic Travel Authorisation (ETA) document in place of the vacated visa requirements for travellers.

How many visa-free entries has Kenya approved?

Immigration and Citizen Service Principal Secretary (PS) Julius Bitok confirmed on Sunday, January 7, that ETA applications have increased to 9,787.

"Out of this, 4,046 applications have already been processed while the others are undergoing review on priority basis, guided by the travel schedule submitted by each applicant," said Bitok.

Bitok noted that the increase in ETA applications signified the government's agenda to attract more foreign investments and open inclusive tourism into the country.

This came as the country received the first batch of travellers under the programme on Friday, January 5.

Is Kenya's visa-free regime fair?

The PS further noted that the ETA is premised on the need to have a fair, faster and reliable system for foreigners coming into the country, Kenya's security and other strategic interests.

He said ETA guarantees equal treatment for all foreign nationals coming to Kenya on a common fee of $30 (KSh 4,700) as opposed to the visa payment of $50 (KSh 7,800).

Before the ETA, only 51 countries enjoyed visa-free entry to Kenya compared to 155 subjected to visa requirements.

The ETA now exempts the East Africa Community (EAC) member countries' citizens alone.

However, there have been concerns among travellers about the system, with some arguing it will scare away tourists.

Most travellers raised concerns over the ETA requirements, which might lead to them missing their flights.