Kenya implements mandatory travel health insurance for foreign visitors

Kenya has implemented a mandatory inbound travel health insurance requirement for most foreign visitors, effective October 5. The policy requires travelers to purchase standalone cover through the government’s eCitizen portal, costing approximately US$44 per person. The insurance provides 90 days of coverage at accredited hospitals with a benefit limit of up to US$50,000.

Tourism operators have expressed frustration over the abrupt rollout and lack of communication. A significant point of contention is that the policy applies even to travelers who already hold comprehensive international travel insurance. According to the Kenya Civil Aviation Authority, there is currently no procedure for verifying or accepting foreign insurance certificates, making the local policy compulsory for non-exempt travelers.

The requirement affects non-Kenyan visitors staying for less than 12 months for tourism, business, or family visits, as well as nationals from African countries outside the East African Community. Industry leaders, including the Kenya Association of Travel Agents, have noted that the sudden implementation creates uncertainty for existing reservations and may impact the country’s tourism competitiveness.