NAIROBI, KENYA — The Kenyan Cabinet has announced significant changes to its immigration policies, easing travel restrictions for African nationals and introducing a new work permit category for digital nomads.
Effective immediately, travelers holding passports from most African countries will no longer require an Electronic Travel Authorization (ETA) to enter Kenya. This move aims to facilitate travel within the African continent and boost tourism. However, citizens of Somalia and Libya are excluded from this policy due to security concerns.
Under the new regulations, African visitors will be granted a 60-day visa upon arrival, while citizens of the East African Community (EAC) will enjoy a 6-month stay in accordance with existing free movement protocols.
Furthermore, the government will introduce an expedited ETA processing option, ensuring approval within 72 hours for those who require it.
In a separate development, Kenya has introduced a new “Class N” work permit specifically for digital nomads. This category applies to foreign nationals who work remotely for companies outside Kenya or freelance for clients abroad while residing within the country.
To qualify, individuals must demonstrate an annual income of at least USD 24,000 from foreign sources, provide proof of accommodation, and possess a clean criminal record.
Importantly, this permit prohibits any employment or income-generating activities within Kenya for employers or companies domiciled within the country.
Additionally, a new “Class R” work permit has been created for citizens of EAC member states. This permit, which is exempt from government fees, allows for employment, business, and other professional activities within Kenya, subject to meeting specific eligibility criteria.
These policy changes are expected to have a significant impact on Kenya’s tourism and economy, attracting a greater number of international visitors and fostering a more conducive environment for remote work and innovation.
The government fees payable to the Department of Immigration for these classes of applications are as follows:
| Type of permit | Processing fee | Issuance fee per year |
| Digital Nomad Permit | USD 200 | USD 100 |
| Citizens of the East African Community Permit | Gratis | Gratis |
While these policy changes have been gazetted, the Department of Immigration is currently finalizing the implementation process for the new work permit classes. The online application portal, eFNS, will soon be updated to accommodate these changes, with the official launch expected in the coming weeks.
This move reflects a growing global trend towards embracing the rise of digital nomadism. As remote work continues to gain traction, many countries are recognizing the economic and social benefits of attracting these globally mobile professionals.
By creating a more welcoming environment for both African travelers and digital nomads, Kenya aims to position itself as a leading destination for tourism, innovation, and remote work.
