The United States has called on Kenyan visa applicants and travelers to strictly adhere to immigration rules, warning that abuse of the visa process could jeopardize travel opportunities between the two countries.
In a statement, Susan M. Burns, the Chargé d’Affaires at the United States Embassy in Nairobi, emphasised that while Washington values its strong ties with Kenya, maintaining the integrity of the visa system remains a top priority.
“The United States is committed to protecting our country and our citizens. One way we do that is by maintaining strong standards in our visa process,” Burns said.
She noted that thousands of Kenyans travel to the US annually for business, tourism, and education, contributing to deepening bilateral relations.
“These visits strengthen the close ties between our countries and we value them,” she added.
However, the envoy raised concern over increasing cases of visa misuse, including submission of fraudulent documents, overstaying permitted durations and entering the US under one visa category before attempting to change status after arrival.
“This can include submitting fraudulent documents, staying longer than permitted or entering with one type of visa and changing status after arrival,” Burns said.
According to the embassy, such violations not only affect individual applicants but could also have broader consequences for the country.
Burns cautioned that nations with high levels of visa abuse risk facing punitive measures, including the introduction of visa bonds or even suspension of visa services.
“When visa systems are abused, countries can face restrictions such as visa bonds or even the suspension of visa services. Kenya has avoided those restrictions so far,” she said, underscoring the importance of continued compliance.
The US reiterated that a visa should not be viewed as an entitlement but rather a conditional privilege granted under strict guidelines.
“It is important to remember that a visa is a privilege, not a right,” Burns stated.
She urged applicants to provide truthful and complete information during the application process, warning against the use of intermediaries who promise success through fraudulent means.
“We know Kenyans pay agencies millions of shillings for fake documents and we hate to see this money wasted,” she said.
“False statements or inconsistencies and using fake documents can also lead to permanent visa ineligibility.”
Burns further advised travelers to strictly observe the conditions of their visas, particularly regarding the duration of stay in the United States.
“If you receive a tourist visa, return home before the ‘admit until’ date given to you when you enter the United States,” she said, noting that overstaying could result in future travel bans and negatively impact other Kenyan applicants.
The envoy highlighted upcoming global opportunities, including the 2026 FIFA World Cup, as key reasons for maintaining smooth travel relations.
“We want Kenyans to continue travelling to the United States for business, education, tourism and global events like the 2026 World Cup,” she said.
Burns concluded by calling for shared responsibility in preserving the strong partnership between Kenya and the United States.
“By following the rules of your visa and returning home when your visit ends you help keep those doors open. Remember, be honest, respectable, return home on time. Let’s work together to keep travel flowing by following the rules.”
