In response to criticism of its visa entry system and the issuance of work permits to foreigners, Kenya has introduced sweeping changes aimed at solidifying its position as a multilateral and financial hub in Africa. President William Ruto’s administration, through a Gazette Notice on Monday, announced amendments under the Kenya Citizenship and Immigration (Amendment) Regulations, 2024.

These changes are designed to modernize and streamline work permit regulations while advancing national interests, particularly in digital job creation, regional integration, and fairer labor practices. According to government officials, these reforms will bolster foreign exchange inflows and enhance Kenya’s appeal as a leading international and financial hub.

As part of the reforms, the government has introduced the Class ‘P’ permit. “This permit will cater to personnel from the United Nations, diplomatic missions, inter-governmental organizations, and international NGOs accredited to or operating in hardship regions within neighboring countries,” read a communication from the State.

Additionally, a specialized permit, Class ‘R’, has been created exclusively for citizens of East African Community (EAC) member states. “This permit simplifies and consolidates access for all categories of EAC nationals, whether investors, professionals, skilled and unskilled workers, traders, farmers, or manufacturers, without imposing any charges,” the statement added.

Proof of citizenship from an EAC member state will be the only requirement, reaffirming the regional bloc’s commitment to allowing its citizens to live, work, and thrive across member nations.

In a bid to address growing concerns over its Electronic Travel Authorization (ETA) system, the Kenyan government has announced plans for a comprehensive review. The approval for this initiative came during a Cabinet meeting chaired by President Ruto at State House, Nairobi, on December 17.

“To further enhance Kenya’s competitiveness, the Cabinet sanctioned a review and strengthening of the Electronic Travel Authorization (ETA) System, in response to various concerns from stakeholders and to accommodate the increasing number of tourist arrivals,” read part of the dispatch from the Cabinet.

The review aims to address stakeholder concerns and align the system with Kenya’s ambitious target of welcoming 5 million tourists by 2027.

Kenya’s tourism industry has been experiencing robust growth. According to the Cabinet, at least 2.5 million tourists are expected to visit Kenya in 2024, up from 2.09 million in 2023—a 35.4% increase compared to 2022.

The government projects a record surge of 1 million visitors over two years. “Affirming Kenya’s growing appeal as a destination of choice for foreign tourists, the meeting noted that, driven by the nation’s groundbreaking introduction of Visa-Free entry, Kenya is on track to meet its ambitious target of welcoming 5 million tourists by 2027,” the Cabinet stated.

Tourism Minister Rebecca Miano announced that the engagement on the ETA review will begin on January 7, 2025, after the Cabinet recess. “We have scheduled a multi-sectoral engagement on January 7, 2025, to review and discuss the ETA in detail based on the concerns raised and the results of the Africa Visa Openness Index. I will keep all stakeholders updated until we improve the visa openness index,” Miano confirmed.

The Story is from: kenyanforeignpolicy.com

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Kenya allows EAC nationals free entry to work