In a bid to further boost its tourism numbers and grow its economy, Kenya has introduced the Digital Nomad Work Permit and the Transit and Long Connection Travellers Electronic Travel Authorisation (ETA).

The initiatives were launched by President William Ruto at the Magical Kenya Travel Expo 2024 in Nairobi. This historic first for the country’s tourism industry aims to enhance visitors’ enjoyment of Kenya – on long-haul trips or remote working visits – while sampling the country’s natural beauty and high-quality lifestyle without difficulty.

“The programmes are aimed at complementing the government’s visa-free policy with the Transit and Long Connection Travellers ETA enabling transit visitors to immerse themselves in Magical Kenya instead of waiting at the terminals,” Ruto said.

The digital nomad travel trend is proving increasingly lucrative. A report by global talent company MBO Partners indicates 11% of the American workforce (18.1 million workers) are presently digital nomads – this number has increased by 4.7% since last year.

Another report by the International Data Corporation predicts the global technology workforce will reach over 50 million by 2025.

African countries such as South Africa, Rwanda, Mauritius, Namibia and Kenya are tapping into the economic growth potential presented by these travellers who boost tourist arrivals.

‘Ahead of the curve’

“We believe that we are ahead of the curve when it comes to capturing the workforce of the future who don’t want to be limited to physical working space; they want to be able to work anywhere as long as they have connectivity and affordable accommodation,” said June Chepkemei, CEO of the Kenya Tourism Board (KTB).

Although details of the permit have not been finalised by the State Department for Immigration, KTB and the Ministry of Tourism are working to facilitate the process by clarifying the criteria for travellers and thus encourage renewable and long-term stays.

The Digital Nomad Permit implementation date has not yet been disclosed.

“One of the requirements will be that the traveller must have a confirmed job outside the country. We are going to work with immigration to ensure their families can also visit the country, go to school and live here,” Chepkemai added.

Kenya has reliable internet connection and is often touted as “Silicon Savannah” due to its rapidly growing tech ecosystem and innovative technological advancements, which are expected to attract digital nomads.

“We are collaborating with co-working spaces and innovation hubs across the country to ensure any digital nomad can plug in and work anywhere while on holiday,” explained Chepkemai.

“We also want to work with relevant partners, including hospitality companies, on packages.” KTB will reach out to private-sector companies with extra offices and permission to accommodate digital workers. “We will even reach out to mentors for our young people,” Chepkemai added.

CEO of the Kenya Association of Travel Agents Nicanor Sabula believes the permit will attract “tech nerds” keen on exploring business opportunities while sampling the country's natural attractions.

“As an association, we see our members taking advantage of this to create special packages for digital tourists seeking staycations within the beach attractions or even in the wildlife sanctuaries.

“This would also be a great opportunity to open up our northern Kenya circuits that offer tranquillity and peace of mind for visitors seeking to work remotely away from the hustle and bustle of the big city life.”

Sabula said it is important to develop and strengthen the country’s infrastructure and offerings. “This includes enhancing our internet connectivity, providing quality accommodation and creating packages that offer local experiences. Above all, we must guarantee safety and security for visitors. We must also work on our healthcare system to provide quality services, especially in our rural and remote areas.”

Impact on locals

While acknowledging the benefits of the permit attracting digital nomads, Founder of Hotel Online Havar Bauck believes there will be challenges if the permit increases the popularity of the destination.

“Demand from digital nomads will increase rent in some areas. These visitors typically rent apartments rather than stay in hotels – a massive influx could affect rent in areas that are popular among expats today such as Kilimani, Kileleshwa, Lavington, Riverside and Westlands. It would take a lot for that to happen in Nairobi as there’s huge supply but we could expect this in parts of Mombasa and places, like Diani and Malindi, if these become popular destinations for digital nomads.

“In the longer term, increased demand would lead to construction of more apartments so that challenge would only be temporary. Kenya is generally ready to welcome digital nomads.

“My qualified guess is that the coast, in particular, stands to benefit but we never really know which places become popular. We may also see some unexpected destinations rising.”

Commenting on the details, Bauck advised the immigration department to keep it simple and affordable.

“Just make it a long-term, multi-entry visa but don’t overcharge people. Other countries are competing for the same visitors. While Kenya is amazing, it is not the only great place to be. If the visa is too expensive, that will deter people. Most digital nomads don’t have their eyes fixed on one particular destination. In addition to Kenya, they might be looking at, say, Thailand and Costa Rica so make it an attractive value proposition for them.”