President William Ruto has announced plans to simplify Kenya’s visa and Electronic Travel Authorization (eTA) requirements for visitors arriving at the Port of Mombasa, aiming to enhance the country’s appeal as a top tourist destination. This move comes after his visit to the luxury Norwegian Dawn cruise liner, which docked in Mombasa carrying over 2,000 tourists.
Speaking during the visit, Ruto emphasized the importance of eliminating bureaucratic obstacles that often discourage international travelers. “We are changing our visa and eTA system to make the process smoother and hassle-free for visitors,” he said. “Our goal is to eliminate unnecessary paperwork and ensure tourists can explore our country with ease.”
The reforms will particularly benefit cruise ship passengers, a sector that has seen a notable increase in arrivals in recent months. Over 800 passengers aboard the Norwegian Dawn disembarked for day-long excursions to Amboseli National Park and Mombasa’s historical landmarks, though many faced delays due to authorization issues.
Ruto added that the new system would ease the travel process for tourists, eliminating delays at the port. “This will create a seamless visa process where the shipping line provides a passenger manifest to port authorities, allowing clearance in a single step,” explained Mombasa Governor Abdulswamad Sheriff Nassir, who supported the initiative.
The visa reforms also aim to address the challenges posed by the eTA requirements, which were introduced on January 1, 2024. Under the new system, foreign visitors, including children, must obtain travel authorization before entering the country. This has, at times, led to significant delays, especially for cruise passengers.
The changes are part of the government’s broader strategy to boost tourism, trade, and ease of travel, ensuring Kenya remains a sought-after destination for international visitors. The new system is expected to streamline the entry process, further enhancing Kenya’s tourism sector and fostering a more welcoming environment for travelers.
