Kenya: Court Temporarily Suspends Mandatory Health Insurance for Foreign Visitors

Kenya’s plans to introduce mandatory travel health insurance for foreign visitors have been put on hold for the time being. On August 25, 2026, the High Court in Marsabit ordered a temporary suspension of the implementation and enforcement of this new requirement. For travelers planning to enter Kenya, this is initially a relief: The additional insurance requirement, which was originally intended to apply to all foreign nationals staying for less than twelve months, will not be enforced until further notice.

The ruling stems from a lawsuit filed by two residents of Marsabit County challenging the legality of the regulation introduced by the Kenyan Ministry of Health. Judge Francis Rayola Olel classified the matter as urgent and suspended further implementation pending a hearing of both parties, which is scheduled for September 16, 2026. Only then will it become clear whether the insurance mandate will remain in its original form, be amended, or be overturned entirely.

The lawsuit stems from Gazette Notice No. 11492, which the Kenyan government published on July 30, 2026. It specified the minimum coverage amounts for the required travel health insurance that foreign visitors would have had to provide proof of in the future. The regulation had been announced only a few weeks earlier and had caused considerable uncertainty among travelers and in the tourism industry, as it remained unclear exactly how proof of coverage was to be provided and verified.

For those currently planning a trip to Kenya, the court’s suspension does not initially change the regular entry requirements. Existing visa requirements remain in effect, and travelers should continue to obtain the necessary documents well in advance. For example, anyone who needs an e-visa for Kenya can apply for one regardless of the current legal dispute surrounding the mandatory health insurance requirement.

Since the situation may still change before the next hearing in September, it is advisable for travelers to closely monitor developments, especially if they plan to enter the country after that date. Should the court later uphold the regulation, mandatory travel health insurance could be reintroduced at short notice. We are monitoring the situation and adjusting our advice accordingly to ensure that customers always travel in compliance with the currently valid requirements.

Regardless of the outcome of these proceedings, it remains advisable to research all entry options relevant to Kenya in advance. In addition to the standard e-visa, there is, for example, the East Africa Tourist Visa (EATV) for travelers who wish to visit multiple countries in the region, as well as special options for longer stays. An overview of the costs for the Kenya visa also helps with travel planning, ensuring there are no unpleasant surprises should additional requirements—such as health insurance—be introduced later.