Kenya has decided to exempt passport holders from South Africa and six other countries from the $30 (£23) entry fee introduced last month to boost tourism and attract business travelers.

The move follows the government’s decision to eliminate visa requirements for all foreign passport holders, with the entry fee causing significant criticism.

The exempted countries, including South Africa, Ethiopia, Eritrea, Congo-Brazzaville, Comoros, Mozambique, and San Marino, have entered “visa abolition agreements or signed bilateral visa waiver agreements” with Kenya, according to a memorandum from Kenya’s interior ministry and immigration department.

Despite the fee waiver, travelers from these countries will still need to obtain an Electronic Travel Authorization (ETA) document in advance, providing details such as flight information and proof of accommodation. The ETA is valid for a single entry and lasts for 90 days.

The exemption aligns with Kenya’s commitment to nations with established visa agreements. Ethiopia, which has had visa exemption pacts with Nairobi for the past five decades, particularly welcomed the decision. 

The adjustment also addresses concerns about the $30 fee associated with the Electronic Travel Authorization (eTA) system, which was criticized as a de facto visa charge.

The modification, effective since February 15, reflects Kenya’s ongoing efforts to refine its travel processes and foster positive relations with international partners. 

Despite the fee waiver, the eTA application process remains in place, with a 72-hour processing timeline and a 90-day validity period for issued ETAs.