Business visas eased for nationals of Cameroon, Mali, Senegal

IMPACT – MEDIUM

What is the change? Kenya has announced it will remove Cameroon, Mali and Senegal from its list of referred nationals who require special authorization to obtain a visa.

What does the change mean? Effective July 14, nationals of the three West African countries may apply for a visa online, at a Kenyan mission, or upon arrival at Kenya’s ports of entry.

• Implementation time frame: July 14.
• Visas/permits affected: Business visas.
• Who is affected: Nationals of Cameroon, Mali, Senegal.
• Impact on processing times: The easing of the policy will save time for those who would otherwise need pre-approval from Nairobi—a process that takes up to three months. E-visas are processed in approximately two days, consular visas in about five to seven days, and visas-on-arrival immediately upon entry.
• Business impact: Business visits will be easier for nationals of the three countries, especially those traveling on short notice, as travelers will be able to apply for a visa online or travel without a visa and apply upon entry.

Background: Kenya requires certain “restricted nationals” to apply for a Referred Business Visa that requires special approval by the Directorate of Immigration Services in Nairobi.

BAL Analysis: The change in policy will facilitate business travel from Cameroon, Mali and Senegal. Travelers are reminded that work activities are proscribed while on a business visa and that hands-on or productive work requires an appropriate work pass.

This alert has been provided by the BAL Global Practice group and our network provider located in Kenya. For additional information, please contact africa@bal.com.

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