The Chargé d’Affaires at the US Embassy in Nairobi, Susan Burns, has urged Kenyans to strictly adhere to visa regulations to preserve and strengthen travel ties between Kenya and the US.
In a brief video message posted on social media, Burns emphasised that while the US remains committed to fostering strong bilateral relations, maintaining integrity in the visa process is critical to ensuring continued access for legitimate travellers.
“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,” she said.
Burns said thousands of Kenyans travel to the US every year for business, education and tourism, adding that such exchanges play a vital role in strengthening ties between the two nations.
“Every year, many Kenyans travel to the United States for business, tourism and education. These visits strengthen close ties between our two countries and we value them,” she said.
However, the envoy raised concern over growing cases of visa misuse, warning that such actions could have far-reaching consequences not just for individuals, but for the country as a whole.
“At the same time, we have seen cases where the visa process is misused. This can include submitting fraudulent documents, staying longer than permitted or entering on one type of visa and changing status upon arrival,” Burns cautioned.
She warned that abuse of the system could trigger strict measures, including visa bans or even suspension of visa services for affected countries.
“When these systems are abused, countries can face restrictions such as visa bans, or even suspension of visa services,” she said, adding that Kenya has so far avoided such penalties.
“Kenya has avoided those restrictions so far, but it is important to remember that a visa is a privilege and not a right,” she stressed.
Burns urged Kenyan applicants to prioritise honesty and transparency during the application process, noting that many fall victim to fraud by paying large sums of money to unscrupulous agents for fake documents.
“For Kenyan applicants, the message is simple. First, provide complete and truthful information in your application. We know Kenyans pay agencies millions of shillings for fake documents and we hate to see this money wasted,” she said.
She warned that submitting false information could result in severe consequences, including permanent ineligibility for US visas.
“False statements, inconsistencies and the use of fake documents can lead to permanent visa ineligibility,” Burns said.
The envoy also advised travellers to strictly observe the terms of their visas once granted, particularly by returning home within the stipulated time.
“If you receive a tourist visa, return home before the ‘admit until’ date given to you when you enter the US. Overstaying may mean you may not be able to return in the future,” she said.
Burns said visa violations by a few individuals could negatively impact other Kenyans seeking travel opportunities.
“It can also make it harder for other Kenyans to get visas,” she warned.
Reaffirming the strong partnership between Kenya and the United States, Burns said both countries are keen to maintain open travel channels, especially ahead of major global events such as the 2026 FIFA World Cup.
“We want Kenyans to continue travelling to the United States for business, education, tourism and global events like the 2026 World Cup,” she said.