us embassy travel to kenya

We’re sorry, this site is currently experiencing technical difficulties. Please try again in a few moments. Exception: request blocked

You are using an outdated browser. Upgrade your browser today or install Google Chrome Frame to better experience this site.

Kenya Traveler View

Due to heavy rainfall, Kenya is experiencing significant flooding in most counties; the Maasai Mara and Great Rift Valley regions are most affected. Travel by land may be dangerous in flood zones, and the healthcare infrastructure has been damaged in many of these areas. There may be an increased risk of waterborne and vector-borne diseases, including cholera, other diarrheal diseases, and malaria.

Avoid contact with floodwater , as it may contain harmful germs, other contaminants, or sharp objects; it may also conduct electricity from downed power lines. For your safety, follow all instructions from local authorities. Check the U.S. Embassy and Consulates in Kenya  website for alerts. Consider enrolling in the Smart Traveler Enrollment Program (STEP) to receive security updates and information about emergency assistance.

Travel Health Notices

Vaccines and medicines, non-vaccine-preventable diseases, stay healthy and safe.

• Packing List

After Your Trip

Be aware of current health issues in Kenya. Learn how to protect yourself.

Level 2 Practice Enhanced Precautions

• Global Polio May 23, 2024 Some international destinations have circulating poliovirus. Before any international travel, make sure you are up to date on your polio vaccines. Destination List: Afghanistan, Algeria, Angola, Benin, Botswana, Burkina Faso, Burundi, Cameroon, Central African Republic, Chad, Côte d'Ivoire (Ivory Coast), Democratic Republic of the Congo, Egypt, Guinea, Indonesia, Kenya, Liberia, Madagascar, Malawi, Mali, Mauritania, Mozambique, Niger, Nigeria, Pakistan, Republic of the Congo, Senegal, Sierra Leone, Somalia, Sudan, Tanzania, including Zanzibar, Yemen, Zambia, Zimbabwe

⇧ Top

Check the vaccines and medicines list and visit your doctor at least a month before your trip to get vaccines or medicines you may need. If you or your doctor need help finding a location that provides certain vaccines or medicines, visit the Find a Clinic page.

Routine vaccines

Recommendations.

Make sure you are up-to-date on all routine vaccines before every trip. Some of these vaccines include

• Chickenpox (Varicella)
• Diphtheria-Tetanus-Pertussis
• Flu (influenza)
• Measles-Mumps-Rubella (MMR)

Immunization schedules

All eligible travelers should be up to date with their COVID-19 vaccines. Please see  Your COVID-19 Vaccination  for more information. 

COVID-19 vaccine

Areas of active cholera transmission are  localized  to to the counties of Busia (last case reported 9-12 months ago), Garissa (last case reported 6-9 months ago), Homa Bay (last case reported 9-12 months ago), Isiolo (last case reported 9-12 months ago), Kajiado (last case reported 9-12 months ago), Kiambu (last case reported 9-12 months ago), Kirinyaga (last case reported 9-12 months ago), Kisumu (last case reported 9-12 months ago), Kwale (last case reported 9-12 months ago), Lamu (last case reported 3-6 months ago), Machakos (last case reported 9-12 months ago), Mandera (last case reported 9-12 months ago), Marsabit (last case reported 9-12 months ago), Meru (last case reported 9-12 months ago), Migori (last case reported 9-12 months ago), Mombasa (last case reported 9-12 months ago), Nairobi (last case reported 9-12 months ago), Nakuru (last case reported 9-12 months ago), Samburu (last case reported 9-12 months ago), Siaya (last case reported 9-12 months ago), Tana River (last case reported 3-6 months ago), and Wajir (last case reported 9-12 months ago) in Kenya. Cholera is rare in travelers.  Certain factors  may increase the risk of getting cholera or having severe disease ( more information ). Avoiding unsafe food and water and washing your hands can also help prevent cholera.

Vaccination may be considered for children and adults who are traveling to areas of active cholera transmission.

Cholera - CDC Yellow Book

Hepatitis A

Recommended for unvaccinated travelers one year old or older going to Kenya.

Infants 6 to 11 months old should also be vaccinated against Hepatitis A. The dose does not count toward the routine 2-dose series.

Travelers allergic to a vaccine component or who are younger than 6 months should receive a single dose of immune globulin, which provides effective protection for up to 2 months depending on dosage given.

Unvaccinated travelers who are over 40 years old, immunocompromised, or have chronic medical conditions planning to depart to a risk area in less than 2 weeks should get the initial dose of vaccine and at the same appointment receive immune globulin.

Hepatitis A - CDC Yellow Book

Dosing info - Hep A

Hepatitis B

Recommended for unvaccinated travelers younger than 60 years old traveling to Kenya. Unvaccinated travelers 60 years and older may get vaccinated before traveling to Kenya.

Hepatitis B - CDC Yellow Book

Dosing info - Hep B

CDC recommends that travelers going to certain areas of Kenya take prescription medicine to prevent malaria. Depending on the medicine you take, you will need to start taking this medicine multiple days before your trip, as well as during and after your trip. Talk to your doctor about which malaria medication you should take.

Find  country-specific information  about malaria.

Malaria - CDC Yellow Book

Considerations when choosing a drug for malaria prophylaxis (CDC Yellow Book)

Malaria information for Kenya.

Cases of measles are on the rise worldwide. Travelers are at risk of measles if they have not been fully vaccinated at least two weeks prior to departure, or have not had measles in the past, and travel internationally to areas where measles is spreading.

All international travelers should be fully vaccinated against measles with the measles-mumps-rubella (MMR) vaccine, including an early dose for infants 6–11 months, according to  CDC’s measles vaccination recommendations for international travel .

Measles (Rubeola) - CDC Yellow Book

Meningitis (Meningococcal disease)

Recommended for travelers 2 months old or older traveling to  areas of Kenya  that are part of the meningitis belt during the dry season.

Meningococcal disease - CDC Yellow Book

Meningitis Belt Map

In Kenya poliovirus has been identified in the past year.

Travelers to Kenya are at increased risk of exposure to poliovirus.

Vaccine recommendations : Adults traveling to Kenya who received a complete polio vaccination series as children may receive a single lifetime booster dose of inactivated polio vaccine; travelers who are unvaccinated or not fully vaccinated should receive a complete polio vaccination series before travel. Children who are not fully vaccinated will be considered for an  accelerated vaccination schedule .

Polio - CDC Yellow Book

Polio: For Travelers

Rabid dogs are commonly found in Kenya. However, if you are bitten or scratched by a dog or other mammal while in Kenya, rabies treatment is often available. 

Consider rabies vaccination before your trip if your activities mean you will be around dogs or wildlife.

Travelers more likely to encounter rabid animals include

• Campers, adventure travelers, or cave explorers (spelunkers)
• Veterinarians, animal handlers, field biologists, or laboratory workers handling animal specimens
• Visitors to rural areas

Since children are more likely to be bitten or scratched by a dog or other animals, consider rabies vaccination for children traveling to Kenya. 

Rabies - CDC Yellow Book

Recommended for most travelers, especially those staying with friends or relatives or visiting smaller cities or rural areas.

Typhoid - CDC Yellow Book

Dosing info - Typhoid

Yellow Fever

Required for travelers ≥1 year old arriving from countries with risk for YF virus transmission. 1

Recommended for all travelers ≥9 months old except as follows. Generally not recommended for travel limited to: the city of Nairobi (the capital); the counties of the former North Eastern Province (Mandera, Wajir, and Garissa); or the counties (except Taita-Taveta) of the former Coast Province (Kilifi, including the city of Malindi; Kwale; Lamu; Mombasa, including the city of Mombasa; Tana River) .

Yellow Fever - CDC Yellow Book

• Avoid contaminated water

Leptospirosis

How most people get sick (most common modes of transmission)

• Touching urine or other body fluids from an animal infected with leptospirosis
• Swimming or wading in urine-contaminated fresh water, or contact with urine-contaminated mud
• Drinking water or eating food contaminated with animal urine
• Avoid contaminated water and soil

Clinical Guidance

Schistosomiasis

• Wading, swimming, bathing, or washing in contaminated freshwater streams, rivers, ponds, lakes, or untreated pools.

Avoid bug bites

African tick-bite fever.

• Avoid Bug Bites

African Tick-bite fever

Chikungunya

• Mosquito bite

Crimean-Congo Hemorrhagic fever

• Tick bite 
• Touching the body fluids of a person or animal infected with CCHF
• Mosquito bite

Leishmaniasis

• Sand fly bite
• Avoid animals

Marburg Hemorrhagic Fever

• Touching infected animals (including bats and primates) or their body fluids
• Touching body fluids (blood or sweat) from an infected person
• Touching objects contaminated with the body fluids of a person infected with Ebola or Marburg virus
• Avoid sick people
• Avoid animals and areas where they live

Marburg virus

Rift Valley Fever

• Touching blood, body fluids, or tissue of infected livestock

Rift Valley fever

Airborne & droplet

• Breathing in air or accidentally eating food contaminated with the urine, droppings, or saliva of infected rodents
• Bite from an infected rodent
• Less commonly, being around someone sick with hantavirus (only occurs with Andes virus)
• Avoid rodents and areas where they live

Tuberculosis (TB)

• Breathe in TB bacteria that is in the air from an infected and contagious person coughing, speaking, or singing.

Learn actions you can take to stay healthy and safe on your trip. Vaccines cannot protect you from many diseases in Kenya, so your behaviors are important.

Eat and drink safely

Food and water standards around the world vary based on the destination. Standards may also differ within a country and risk may change depending on activity type (e.g., hiking versus business trip). You can learn more about safe food and drink choices when traveling by accessing the resources below.

• Choose Safe Food and Drinks When Traveling
• Water Treatment Options When Hiking, Camping or Traveling
• Global Water, Sanitation and Hygiene | Healthy Water
• Avoid Contaminated Water During Travel

You can also visit the Department of State Country Information Pages for additional information about food and water safety.

Prevent bug bites

Bugs (like mosquitoes, ticks, and fleas) can spread a number of diseases in Kenya. Many of these diseases cannot be prevented with a vaccine or medicine. You can reduce your risk by taking steps to prevent bug bites.

What can I do to prevent bug bites?

• Cover exposed skin by wearing long-sleeved shirts, long pants, and hats.
• Use an appropriate insect repellent (see below).
• Use permethrin-treated clothing and gear (such as boots, pants, socks, and tents). Do not use permethrin directly on skin.
• Stay and sleep in air-conditioned or screened rooms.
• Use a bed net if the area where you are sleeping is exposed to the outdoors.

What type of insect repellent should I use?

• FOR PROTECTION AGAINST TICKS AND MOSQUITOES: Use a repellent that contains 20% or more DEET for protection that lasts up to several hours.
• Picaridin (also known as KBR 3023, Bayrepel, and icaridin)
• Oil of lemon eucalyptus (OLE) or para-menthane-diol (PMD)
• 2-undecanone
• Always use insect repellent as directed.

What should I do if I am bitten by bugs?

• Avoid scratching bug bites, and apply hydrocortisone cream or calamine lotion to reduce the itching.
• Check your entire body for ticks after outdoor activity. Be sure to remove ticks properly.

What can I do to avoid bed bugs?

Although bed bugs do not carry disease, they are an annoyance. See our information page about avoiding bug bites for some easy tips to avoid them. For more information on bed bugs, see Bed Bugs .

For more detailed information on avoiding bug bites, see Avoid Bug Bites .

Stay safe outdoors

If your travel plans in Kenya include outdoor activities, take these steps to stay safe and healthy during your trip.

• Stay alert to changing weather conditions and adjust your plans if conditions become unsafe.
• Prepare for activities by wearing the right clothes and packing protective items, such as bug spray, sunscreen, and a basic first aid kit.
• Consider learning basic first aid and CPR before travel. Bring a travel health kit with items appropriate for your activities.
• If you are outside for many hours in heat, eat salty snacks and drink water to stay hydrated and replace salt lost through sweating.
• Protect yourself from UV radiation : use sunscreen with an SPF of at least 15, wear protective clothing, and seek shade during the hottest time of day (10 a.m.–4 p.m.).
• Be especially careful during summer months and at high elevation. Because sunlight reflects off snow, sand, and water, sun exposure may be increased during activities like skiing, swimming, and sailing.
• Very cold temperatures can be dangerous. Dress in layers and cover heads, hands, and feet properly if you are visiting a cold location.

Stay safe around water

• Swim only in designated swimming areas. Obey lifeguards and warning flags on beaches.
• Practice safe boating—follow all boating safety laws, do not drink alcohol if driving a boat, and always wear a life jacket.
• Do not dive into shallow water.
• Do not swim in freshwater in developing areas or where sanitation is poor.
• Avoid swallowing water when swimming. Untreated water can carry germs that make you sick.
• To prevent infections, wear shoes on beaches where there may be animal waste.

Schistosomiasis, a parasitic infection that can be spread in fresh water, is found in Kenya. Avoid swimming in fresh, unchlorinated water, such as lakes, ponds, or rivers.

Keep away from animals

Most animals avoid people, but they may attack if they feel threatened, are protecting their young or territory, or if they are injured or ill. Animal bites and scratches can lead to serious diseases such as rabies.

Follow these tips to protect yourself:

• Do not touch or feed any animals you do not know.
• Do not allow animals to lick open wounds, and do not get animal saliva in your eyes or mouth.
• Avoid rodents and their urine and feces.
• Traveling pets should be supervised closely and not allowed to come in contact with local animals.
• If you wake in a room with a bat, seek medical care immediately. Bat bites may be hard to see.

All animals can pose a threat, but be extra careful around dogs, bats, monkeys, sea animals such as jellyfish, and snakes. If you are bitten or scratched by an animal, immediately:

• Wash the wound with soap and clean water.
• Go to a doctor right away.
• Tell your doctor about your injury when you get back to the United States.

Consider buying medical evacuation insurance. Rabies is a deadly disease that must be treated quickly, and treatment may not be available in some countries.

Reduce your exposure to germs

Follow these tips to avoid getting sick or spreading illness to others while traveling:

• Wash your hands often, especially before eating.
• If soap and water aren’t available, clean hands with hand sanitizer (containing at least 60% alcohol).
• Don’t touch your eyes, nose, or mouth. If you need to touch your face, make sure your hands are clean.
• Cover your mouth and nose with a tissue or your sleeve (not your hands) when coughing or sneezing.
• Try to avoid contact with people who are sick.
• If you are sick, stay home or in your hotel room, unless you need medical care.

Avoid sharing body fluids

Diseases can be spread through body fluids, such as saliva, blood, vomit, and semen.

Protect yourself:

• Use latex condoms correctly.
• Do not inject drugs.
• Limit alcohol consumption. People take more risks when intoxicated.
• Do not share needles or any devices that can break the skin. That includes needles for tattoos, piercings, and acupuncture.
• If you receive medical or dental care, make sure the equipment is disinfected or sanitized.

Know how to get medical care while traveling

Plan for how you will get health care during your trip, should the need arise:

• Carry a list of local doctors and hospitals at your destination.
• Review your health insurance plan to determine what medical services it would cover during your trip. Consider purchasing travel health and medical evacuation insurance.
• Carry a card that identifies, in the local language, your blood type, chronic conditions or serious allergies, and the generic names of any medications you take.
• Some prescription drugs may be illegal in other countries. Call Kenya’s embassy to verify that all of your prescription(s) are legal to bring with you.
• Bring all the medicines (including over-the-counter medicines) you think you might need during your trip, including extra in case of travel delays. Ask your doctor to help you get prescriptions filled early if you need to.

Many foreign hospitals and clinics are accredited by the Joint Commission International. A list of accredited facilities is available at their website ( www.jointcommissioninternational.org ).

In some countries, medicine (prescription and over-the-counter) may be substandard or counterfeit. Bring the medicines you will need from the United States to avoid having to buy them at your destination.

Malaria is a risk in Kenya. Fill your malaria prescription before you leave and take enough with you for the entire length of your trip. Follow your doctor’s instructions for taking the pills; some need to be started before you leave.

Select safe transportation

Motor vehicle crashes are the #1 killer of healthy US citizens in foreign countries.

In many places cars, buses, large trucks, rickshaws, bikes, people on foot, and even animals share the same lanes of traffic, increasing the risk for crashes.

Be smart when you are traveling on foot.

• Use sidewalks and marked crosswalks.
• Pay attention to the traffic around you, especially in crowded areas.
• Remember, people on foot do not always have the right of way in other countries.

Riding/Driving

Choose a safe vehicle.

• Choose official taxis or public transportation, such as trains and buses.
• Ride only in cars that have seatbelts.
• Avoid overcrowded, overloaded, top-heavy buses and minivans.
• Avoid riding on motorcycles or motorbikes, especially motorbike taxis. (Many crashes are caused by inexperienced motorbike drivers.)
• Choose newer vehicles—they may have more safety features, such as airbags, and be more reliable.
• Choose larger vehicles, which may provide more protection in crashes.

Think about the driver.

• Do not drive after drinking alcohol or ride with someone who has been drinking.
• Consider hiring a licensed, trained driver familiar with the area.
• Arrange payment before departing.

Follow basic safety tips.

• Wear a seatbelt at all times.
• Sit in the back seat of cars and taxis.
• When on motorbikes or bicycles, always wear a helmet. (Bring a helmet from home, if needed.)
• Avoid driving at night; street lighting in certain parts of Kenya may be poor.
• Do not use a cell phone or text while driving (illegal in many countries).
• Travel during daylight hours only, especially in rural areas.
• If you choose to drive a vehicle in Kenya, learn the local traffic laws and have the proper paperwork.
• Get any driving permits and insurance you may need. Get an International Driving Permit (IDP). Carry the IDP and a US-issued driver's license at all times.
• Check with your auto insurance policy's international coverage, and get more coverage if needed. Make sure you have liability insurance.
• Avoid using local, unscheduled aircraft.
• If possible, fly on larger planes (more than 30 seats); larger airplanes are more likely to have regular safety inspections.
• Try to schedule flights during daylight hours and in good weather.

Medical Evacuation Insurance

If you are seriously injured, emergency care may not be available or may not meet US standards. Trauma care centers are uncommon outside urban areas. Having medical evacuation insurance can be helpful for these reasons.

Helpful Resources

Road Safety Overseas (Information from the US Department of State): Includes tips on driving in other countries, International Driving Permits, auto insurance, and other resources.

The Association for International Road Travel has country-specific Road Travel Reports available for most countries for a minimal fee.

For information traffic safety and road conditions in Kenya, see Travel and Transportation on US Department of State's country-specific information for Kenya .

Traffic flows on the left side of the road in Kenya.

• Always pay close attention to the flow of traffic, especially when crossing the street.
• LOOK RIGHT for approaching traffic.

Maintain personal security

Use the same common sense traveling overseas that you would at home, and always stay alert and aware of your surroundings.

Before you leave

• Research your destination(s), including local laws, customs, and culture.
• Monitor travel advisories and alerts and read travel tips from the US Department of State.
• Enroll in the Smart Traveler Enrollment Program (STEP) .
• Leave a copy of your itinerary, contact information, credit cards, and passport with someone at home.
• Pack as light as possible, and leave at home any item you could not replace.

While at your destination(s)

• Carry contact information for the nearest US embassy or consulate .
• Carry a photocopy of your passport and entry stamp; leave the actual passport securely in your hotel.
• Follow all local laws and social customs.
• Do not wear expensive clothing or jewelry.
• Always keep hotel doors locked, and store valuables in secure areas.
• If possible, choose hotel rooms between the 2nd and 6th floors.

Healthy Travel Packing List

Use the Healthy Travel Packing List for Kenya for a list of health-related items to consider packing for your trip. Talk to your doctor about which items are most important for you.

Why does CDC recommend packing these health-related items?

It’s best to be prepared to prevent and treat common illnesses and injuries. Some supplies and medicines may be difficult to find at your destination, may have different names, or may have different ingredients than what you normally use.

If you are not feeling well after your trip, you may need to see a doctor. If you need help finding a travel medicine specialist, see Find a Clinic . Be sure to tell your doctor about your travel, including where you went and what you did on your trip. Also tell your doctor if you were bitten or scratched by an animal while traveling.

If your doctor prescribed antimalarial medicine for your trip, keep taking the rest of your pills after you return home. If you stop taking your medicine too soon, you could still get sick.

Malaria is always a serious disease and may be a deadly illness. If you become ill with a fever either while traveling in a malaria-risk area or after you return home (for up to 1 year), you should seek immediate medical attention and should tell the doctor about your travel history.

For more information on what to do if you are sick after your trip, see Getting Sick after Travel .

Map Disclaimer - The boundaries and names shown and the designations used on maps do not imply the expression of any opinion whatsoever on the part of the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention concerning the legal status of any country, territory, city or area or of its authorities, or concerning the delimitation of its frontiers or boundaries. Approximate border lines for which there may not yet be full agreement are generally marked.

Other Destinations

If you need help finding travel information:

Message & data rates may apply. CDC Privacy Policy

File Formats Help:

• Adobe PDF file
• Microsoft PowerPoint file
• Microsoft Word file
• Microsoft Excel file
• Audio/Video file
• Apple Quicktime file
• RealPlayer file
• Zip Archive file

Exit Notification / Disclaimer Policy

• The Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC) cannot attest to the accuracy of a non-federal website.
• Linking to a non-federal website does not constitute an endorsement by CDC or any of its employees of the sponsors or the information and products presented on the website.
• You will be subject to the destination website's privacy policy when you follow the link.
• CDC is not responsible for Section 508 compliance (accessibility) on other federal or private website.

Security Alert May 17, 2024

Worldwide caution, update may 10, 2024, information for u.s. citizens in the middle east.

• Travel Advisories |
• Contact Us |
• MyTravelGov |

Find U.S. Embassies & Consulates

Travel.state.gov, congressional liaison, special issuance agency, u.s. passports, international travel, intercountry adoption, international parental child abduction, records and authentications, popular links, travel advisories, mytravelgov, stay connected, legal resources, legal information, info for u.s. law enforcement, replace or certify documents.

Tourism & Visit

Study & Exchange

Other Visa Categories

U.S. Visa: Reciprocity and Civil Documents by Country

Share this page:

Reciprocity Schedule

Select a visa category below to find the visa issuance fee, number of entries, and validity period for visas issued to applicants from this country*/area of authority.

Explanation of Terms

Visa Classification: The type of nonimmigrant visa you are applying for.

Fee: The reciprocity fee, also known as the visa issuance fee, you must pay. This fee is in addition to the nonimmigrant visa application fee (MRV fee).

Number of Entries: The number of times you may seek entry into the United States with that visa. "M" means multiple times. If there is a number, such as "One", you may apply for entry one time with that visa.

Validity Period: This generally means the visa is valid, or can be used, from the date it is issued until the date it expires, for travel with that visa. If your Validity Period is 60 months, your visa will be valid for 60 months from the date it is issued.

Visa Classifications

Country specific footnotes.

Although care has been taken to ensure the accuracy, completeness and reliability of the information provided, please contact the U.S. Embassy or Consulate where you plan to apply if you believe this information is in error or if you have further questions.

Visa Category Footnotes

The validity of A-3, G-5, and NATO 7 visas may not exceed the validity of the visa issued to the person who is employing the applicant. The "employer" would have one of the following visa classifications:

• G-1 through G-4
• NATO 1 through NATO 6

An E-1 and E-2 visa may be issued only to a principal alien who is a national of a country having a treaty, or its equivalent, with the United States. E-1 and E-2 visas may not be issued to a principal alien if he/she is a stateless resident or national of a country without a treaty.  *When the spouse and children of an E-1 or E-2 principal alien are accorded derivative E-1 or E-2 status and are themselves a national of a country that does not have a treaty with the United States – the reciprocity schedule, including any reciprocity fees, of the principal alien’s country of nationality should be used.  **Spouse and children of an E-1 or E-2 visa principal applicant, where the spouse and children are also nationals of a country that has a treaty with the United States – the reciprocity schedule, including any reciprocity fees, of the spouse and children’s country of nationality should be used.  

*Example 1: John Doe is a national of Country A that has an E-1/E-2 treaty with the U.S. however his wife and child are nationals of Country B which has no treaty with the U.S. The wife and child would, therefore, be entitled to derivative status and receive the same reciprocity as John Doe, the principal visa holder. **Example 2:  Mike Doe is a national of Country Y that has an E-1/E-2 treaty with the U.S. however his wife and child are nationals of Country Z that also has a treaty with the U.S. The wife and child would, therefore, be entitled to derivative status and receive the reciprocity issued to nationals of Country Z.

The validity of H-1 through H-3, O-1 and O-2, P-1 through P-3, and Q visas may not exceed the period of validity of the approved petition or the number of months shown, whichever is less.

Under 8 CFR §214.2, H-2A and H-2B petitions may generally only be approved for nationals of countries that the Secretary of Homeland Security has designated as participating countries. The current list of eligible countries is available on USCIS's website for both H-2A and H-2B visas. Nationals of countries not on this list may be the beneficiary of an approved H-2A or H2-B petition in limited circumstances at the discretion of the Department of Homeland Security if specifically named on the petition.  

Derivative H-4, L-2, O-3, and P-4 visas, issued to accompanying or following-to-join spouses and children, may not exceed the validity of the visa issued to the principal alien.

There is no reciprocity fee for the issuance of a J visa if the alien is a United States Government grantee or a participant in an exchange program sponsored by the United States Government.

Also, there is no reciprocity fee for visa issuance to an accompanying or following-to-join spouse or child (J-2) of an exchange visitor grantee or participant.

In addition, an applicant is eligible for an exemption from the MRV fee if he or she is participating in a State Department, USAID, or other federally funded educational and cultural exchange program (program serial numbers G-1, G-2, G-3 and G-7).

However, all other applicants with U.S. Government sponsorships, including other J-visa applicants, are subject to the MRV processing fee.

Under the North American Free Trade Agreement (NAFTA), Canadian and Mexican nationals coming to engage in certain types of professional employment in the United States may be admitted in a special nonimmigrant category known as the "trade NAFTA" or "TN" category. Their dependents (spouse and children) accompanying or following to join them may be admitted in the "trade dependent" or "TD" category whether or not they possess Canadian or Mexican nationality. Except as noted below, the number of entries, fees and validity for non-Canadian or non-Mexican family members of a TN status holder seeking TD visas should be based on the reciprocity schedule of the TN principal alien.

Canadian Nationals

Since Canadian nationals generally are exempt from visa requirement, a Canadian "TN' or "TD" alien does not require a visa to enter the United States. However, the non-Canadian national dependent of a Canadian "TN", unless otherwise exempt from the visa requirement, must obtain a "TD" visa before attempting to enter the United States. The standard reciprocity fee and validity period for all non-Canadian "TD"s is no fee, issued for multiple entries for a period of 36 months, or for the duration of the principal alien's visa and/or authorized period of stay, whichever is less. See 'NOTE' under Canadian reciprocity schedule regarding applicants of Iranian, Iraqi or Libyan nationality.

Mexican Nationals

Mexican nationals are not visa-exempt. Therefore, all Mexican "TN"s and both Mexican and non-Mexican national "TD"s accompanying or following to join them who are not otherwise exempt from the visa requirement (e.g., the Canadian spouse of a Mexican national "TN") must obtain nonimmigrant visas.

Applicants of Iranian, Iraqi, Libyan, Somalian, Sudanese, Syrian or Yemeni nationality, who have a permanent resident or refugee status in Canada/Mexico, may not be accorded Canadian/Mexican reciprocity, even when applying in Canada/Mexico. The reciprocity fee and period for "TD" applicants from Libya is $10.00 for one entry over a period of 3 months. The Iranian and Iraqi "TD" is no fee with one entry over a period of 3 months.

Q-2 (principal) and Q-3 (dependent) visa categories are in existence as a result of the 'Irish Peace Process Cultural and Training Program Act of 1998'. However, because the Department anticipates that virtually all applicants for this special program will be either Irish or U.K. nationals, the Q-2 and Q-3 categories have been placed only in the reciprocity schedules for those two countries. Q-2 and Q-3 visas are available only at the Embassy in Dublin and the Consulate General in Belfast.

No S visa may be issued without first obtaining the Department's authorization.

V-2 and V-3 status is limited to persons who have not yet attained their 21st birthday. Accordingly, the period of validity of a V-2 or V-3 visa must be limited to expire on or before the applicant's twenty-first birthday.

Posts may not issue a T-1 visa. A T-1 applicant must be physically present in the United States, American Samoa, the Commonwealth of the Northern Mariana Islands or a U.S. port of entry, where he/she will apply for an adjustment of status to that of a T-1. The following dependents of a T-1 visa holder, however, may be issued a T visa at a U.S. consular office abroad:

• T-2 (spouse)
• T-3 (child)
• T-4 (parent)

The validity of NATO-5 visas may not exceed the period of validity of the employment contract or 12 months, whichever is less.

The validity of CW-1 and CW-2 visas shall not exceed the maximum initial period of admission allowed by DHS (12 months) or the duration of the transition period ending December 31, 2014, whichever is shortest.

The validity of E-2C visas shall not exceed the maximum initial period of admission allowed by DHS (24 months) or the duration of the transition period ending December 31, 2014, whichever is shortest.

General Documents

Please check back for update.

Birth, Death, Burial Certificates

Birth certificates.

Document Name: Birth Certificate

Issuing Authority: Department of Civil Registration

Issuing Authority Personnel Title:   Registrar of Births & Deaths

Registration Criteria: Applicants can contact the Registrar of Births to make a late registration of birth. If the office is satisfied with evidence required, late registration will be authorized and a birth certificate will be issued. Please contact the following address for more information:

Director of Civil Registration Nairobi Civil Registration Births and Deaths ACK Bishop’s Building Nairobi

For upcountry births, applicants should contact the Registrar of Births (Upcountry) at the following address:

Director of Civil Registration Department of Civil Registration P.O Box 49179 Hass Plaza Nairobi

Death Certificates

Document Name: Death Certificate

Issuing Authority: Department of Registration of Births & Deaths

Registration Criteria: Burial permit or notification of death, Form D4 (Application for Death Certificate) duly completed, knowledge of date of death where burial permit or notification of death is missing

Procedure for Obtaining: Applicants should contact the Registrar General for copies of death certificates at the following address:

Comments: Civil Registration services are available online through eCitizen: ecitizen.go.ke . The official government platform for obtaining services from the National Government.

Marriage, Divorce Certificates

Marriage certificates.

Fees: Fees vary depending on whether the contracting parties are seeking a normal marriage license or a special license (where the parties cannot meet the 21 day notice period)

Document Name: Marriage Certificate

Issuing Authority: Registrar of Marriages

Special Seal(s) / Color / Format: There is no Special Seal(s)/ Color/Format

Issuing Authority Personnel Title: Registrar of Marriages

Registration Criteria: Can now be applied on eCitizen: ecitizen.go.ke

Procedure for Obtaining: Applicants should contact the Registrar General for copies of marriage certificates at the following address

Registrar of Marriages Sheria House 2nd Floor Nairobi Website: statelaw.go.ke

Certified Copies Available: Certified copies are available

Alternate Documents: There are no alternate documents

Exceptions: After August 1, 2017, all entities living together as husband and wife MUST register their marriages

Comments: All marriages MUST now be registered, including customary marriages.

Divorce Certificates

Fees: Prescribed by the court

Document Name: Divorce Decree

Issuing Authority: Law Courts

Special Seal(s) / Color / Format: There is no Special Seal(s)/ Color/Format.

Issuing Authority Personnel Title: There is no Issuing Authority Personnel Title.

Registration Criteria: Draw a petition that clearly states the grounds for divorce.  Petitioner required to serve the petition and the notice to appear in court to the respondent, either personally or through a post office. The respondent may also file another petition to dissolve the marriage, and after the papers have been exchanged, the registrar of the court sets the date for hearing. If the court is satisfied with the petition, marriage dissolution is granted. The dissolution takes full effect after six months, after which parties are allowed to remarry.

Procedure for Obtaining: Applicants should contact the Registrar at the following address to obtain copies of divorce decrees

The Chief Registrar of the Judiciary City Hall Way P.O BOX 30041-00100 Nairobi, Kenya (020) 2221 221 [email protected]

Alternate Documents:  There are no alternate documents

Exceptions: You should have sufficient reasons to convince the court for a need to divorce, particularly if three years have not elapsed since the date of marriage.

Comments: Read the Matrimonial Causes Act, Chapter 152 of the Laws of Kenya for more detail on what is required before you can embark of the process to obtain a divorce decree

Adoption Certificates

Available: For local adoption only  

Document Name: Adoption Certificate

Issuing Authority: High Court

Issuing Authority Personnel Title: High Court Judge  

Registration Criteria: Please visit labour.go.ke  

Procedure for Obtaining: Please visit  labour.go.ke

Exceptions: None

Comments: The Kenyan government imposed a moratorium on international adoptions in November 2014. The moratorium is still in place.   

Identity Card

Fees: There is no fee

Document Name: National Identity Card

Issuing Authority: National Registration Bureau

Registration Criteria: Please contact:

National Registration Bureau NSSF Building, Block B 8th Floor P.O. Box 57007, 00200 Nairobi. Tel: +254-20-2722526, +254-20-2720069 Fax: 2716205 Email: [email protected]

Procedure for Obtaining: Visit the official site for further information: immigration.go.ke

Certified Copies Available: Certified copies are not available

Exceptions: Kenyans under 18 years of age

Comments: None

Police, Court, Prison Records

Police clearance certificates.

Fees: 1000 plus return postage fee

Document Name: Police Clearance Certificate (PCC)

Issuing Authority : Directorate of Criminal Investigations

Special Seal(s) / Color / Format: There is no Special Seal(s) / Color / Format

Issuing Authority Personnel Title: Directorate of Criminal Investigations

Registration Criteria: Please visit cid.go.ke

Procedure for Obtaining: Please visit cid.go.ke

Comments:  U.S. Embassy Nairobi Consular Section Immigrant Visas Unit has determined police clearance certificates for all refugees and asylum seekers residing in Kenya, as well as for anyone undocumented in Kenya with no legal status, are unobtainable given Government of Kenya policies on producing these documents.  Additionally, once Kenyan Department of Refugee Services (DRS), formerly the Refugee Affairs Secretariat,  issues a police clearance letter, they will not issue another police clearance letter, regardless of expiration date for U.S. immigration purposes.  

Prison Records

Fees: There are no fees

Document Name: Prison Record

Issuing Authority: Prison of previous incarceration

Issuing Authority Personnel Title: The head of the prison

Procedure for Obtaining: Applicants should contact the prison where the applicant was incarcerated. A written request should be addressed with details of the individual's full name, nationality, prison where incarcerated and period imprisoned to the Commissioner of Prisons, P.O. Box 30175, Nairobi.

Comments:   U.S. Embassy Nairobi Consular Section Immigrant Visas Unit has determined police clearance certificates for all refugees and asylum seekers residing in Kenya, as well as for anyone undocumented in Kenya with no legal status, are unobtainable given Government of Kenya policies on producing these documents.  Additionally, once Kenyan Department of Refugee Services (DRS), formerly the Refugee Affairs Secretariat,  issues a police clearance letter, they will not issue another police clearance letter, regardless of expiration date for U.S. immigration purposes.  

Court Records

Fees: Varies

Document Name: Court document or record

Issuing Authority: The court which handled the particular case

Issuing Authority Personnel Title: The court magistrate or judge

Procedure for Obtaining: Applications letter should be addressed to the applicable court

Military Records

Document Name: Military Records

Issuing Authority: Kenyan Armed Services

Issuing Authority Personnel Title : Head of the section or department

Procedure for Obtaining: Applications should be addressed to the applicable branch of the Kenyan armed services. Inquiries should include the service number of the individual and the period employed:

• Kenya Army, P.O, Box 30503, Nairobi, Kenya
• Kenya Air Force, P.O. Box 4888, Nairobi, Kenya
• Kenya Navy, P.O. Box 95350, Mombasa, Kenya

Passports & Other Travel Documents

Types Available: Two  Ordinary (navy blue cover) and East African Countries passport (light blue cover)

Fees: Varies on the number of pages  

Document Name: Passport

Issuing Government Authority: Ministry of Immigration

Issuing Authority Personnel Title: There is no Issuing Authority Personnel Title

Registration Criteria: You have to fill the passport application form online on eCitizen. Find out how to apply for a passport on eCitizen here ecitizen.go.ke

Procedure for Obtaining: You can apply for, renew, or replace your passport and pay for it online. You must print out a form at the end. You must sign and date the form, add any documents or photographs that are needed, and return it for processing.

Other Documents Available: There are no other documents available

Other Records

Not applicable.

• Visa Issuing Posts

Post Title: Embassy

• Physical Address: United Nations Avenue, Gigiri, Nairobi
• Mailing Address: APO AE 09831-8900
• International Mailing Address: P.O. Box 30137 Nairobi, Kenya

Phone Number:

• Tel: +254-2-363-6000, After hours emergencies: +254-2-363-6170
• Fax: +254-2-363-6410

Email: None

Visa Services

All visa categories for Kenya. US Embassy Nairobi also processes immigrant visas for the following countries

South Sudan

• Somalia  

Additional Information for Reciprocity

• Reciprocity: What's New
• Temporary Reciprocity Schedule
• Country Acronyms
• Terrorist Designation Lists
• State Sponsors of Terrorism
• Treaty Countries

Afghanistan

Antigua and Barbuda

Bosnia and Herzegovina

Brunei Darussalam

Burkina Faso

Cayman Islands

Central African Republic

Congo the Democratic Republic of the

Curaçao

Czech Republic

Côte d'Ivoire

Dominican Republic

El Salvador

Equatorial Guinea

Guinea-Bissau

Iran, Islamic Republic of

Israel, Jerusalem, the West Bank and Gaza

Korea, Democratic People's Republic of

Lao People's Democratic Republic

Liechtenstein

Marshall Islands

Micronesia, Federated States of

Moldova, Republic of

Netherlands

New Caledonia

New Zealand

North Korea

North Macedonia

Palestinian Authority

Papua New Guinea

Philippines

Russian Federation

Saint Kitts and Nevis

Saint Lucia

Saint Vincent and the Grenadines

Sao Tome and Principe

Saudi Arabia

Sierra Leone

Sint Maarten (Dutch part)

Solomon Islands

South Africa

South Korea

Switzerland

Timor-Leste

Trinidad and Tobago

Turkmenistan

Turks and Caicos Islands

United Arab Emirates

United Kingdom

Virgin Islands, British

Wallis and Futuna

External Link

You are about to leave travel.state.gov for an external website that is not maintained by the U.S. Department of State.

Links to external websites are provided as a convenience and should not be construed as an endorsement by the U.S. Department of State of the views or products contained therein. If you wish to remain on travel.state.gov, click the "cancel" message.

You are about to visit:

Kenyan president's visit: A snub, a state dinner and a major 'non-NATO' ally designation

Lawmaker calls it an 'affront to american diplomacy' for house speaker mike johnson to not invite president william ruto to give an address to a joint session of congress.

WASHINGTON — What's on the menu at the White House for visiting Kenyan President William Ruto: Smoked short ribs and buttered lobster. What's not on the menu: An invitation for the African leader to address a joint session of Congress.

That missing course has left many lawmakers fuming.

Even as President Joe Biden gets ready to treat Ruto and his wife, Rachel, to a sumptuous state dinner Thursday night, some fear the absence of an honor that has been accorded to all recent visiting heads of state could leave a bitter aftertaste.

Many prominent lawmakers are upset over House Speaker Mike Johnson's rejection of a joint meeting of Congress with Ruto, which was proposed by the House Committee on Foreign Affairs to "underscore the importance of the U.S-Kenya relationship." His office cited "scheduling" issues for the denial.

Ruto’s trip is the first state visit by a Kenyan president to the United States in two decades and the first by an African leader since 2008. The last African leader to address Congress was Liberian President Ellen Johnson Sirleaf who spoke in the House chamber in 2006.

Prep for the polls: See who is running for president and compare where they stand on key issues in our Voter Guide

'Affront to American diplomacy'

In a letter to Johnson, Rep. Steven Horsford, chairman of the Congressional Black Caucus, called the move an "affront to American diplomacy," adding that it was "especially troubling" given that other heads of state who have come to the U.S. for an official visit during the 118 th Congress have been invited to address Congress.

The letter, signed by more than 60 members of the Congressional Black Caucus, including House Minority Leader Hakeem Jeffries, demanded that Ruto be "treated with the same respect granted to other heads of state."

Recent heads of state including Japanese Prime Minister Fumio Kashida, Indian Prime Minister Narendra Modi, Israeli President Isaac Herzog, and South Korean President Yoon Suk Yeol have all addressed the joint session of Congress.

"Failing to invite President Ruto sends a dangerous message to the world," Horsford wrote. "About which countries the United States Congress deems worthy of addressing Congress and diminishes the importance of our nation’s relationship with the continent of Africa."

Lawmakers warn 'adversaries' are working to dent U.S. alliances

Asked about his decision, Johnson’s office sent a statement to USA TODAY saying "scheduling restraints" were the reason for the lack of invitation.

“We offered the Kenyan embassy over 90 minutes of engagement including a one-on-one visit with Speaker Johnson, bipartisan leadership meeting with Speaker Johnson, Leader Jeffries, and Committee Chairmen and Ranking Members, and a bicameral meeting,” the statement said of the meeting that took place on Wednesday.

Democratic Rep. Barbara Lee, along with other lawmakers, also wrote to Johnson pointing out how "adversaries" like China, Russia, and Iran were working to subvert America’s alliances, particularly in Africa.

The East African nation, which is getting ready to deploy its police force in Haiti as the Caribbean country deals with the ongoing gang crisis, is emerging as a vital African partner to the U.S. Johnson’s choice not to provide Ruto the opportunity to address Congress helps create an opening for autocratic adversaries to make inroads in African public opinion, lawmakers warned, adding: "The people of Kenya deserve more respect."

Ruto’s visit marks 60 years of official U.S.-Kenya partnership “founded on shared values, deep cooperation, and a common vision for the future,” according to the White House. Biden is also expected to inform Congress on Thursday that he intends to designate Kenya as a major “non-NATO Ally." It's a designation granted by the United States to countries with close and strategic working relationships with the U.S. military and defense civilians.

Among other partnerships the two countries will work on include global peace and security, economic development, human rights, and tackling the climate crisis.

The state dinner, a glamorous diplomatic tool, will set the stage for a “friendship that will endure, helping create a shining and prosperous tomorrow,” said first lady Jill Biden.

Roses and orchids

On Thursday night, guests will dine under the stars, in a pavilion made of glass and glowing with candles.

The décor for the evening reflects the first lady's love of candlelight which she favors to make guests feel as if they're at home, even when they're part of a large group, said Bryan Rafanelli, the event planner for the evening.

The space, saturated with warm pinks and reds, will be decorated with roses and orchids representing the United States and Kenya.

"As guests leave their path illuminated by our one moon," said Biden. "I hope they will be filled with the same warmth that I felt on my visits to Kenya.”

S wapna Venugopal Ramaswamy is a White House correspondent for USA TODAY.   You can follow her on X, formerly Twitter, @SwapnaVenugopal

Biden thanks Kenya’s Ruto for sending police to Haiti, defends keeping U.S. forces from the mission

• Show more sharing options
• Copy Link URL Copied!

President Biden on Thursday expressed deep appreciation to Kenyan President William Ruto for the coming deployment of Kenyan police forces to help quell gang violence in Haiti and he defended his decision to withhold American forces from the mission in the beleaguered Caribbean nation.

The United States has agreed to contribute $300 million to a multinational force that will include 1,000 Kenyan police officers, but Biden argued that an American troop presence in Haiti would raise “all kinds of questions that can easily be misrepresented.”

The Democrat came into office in 2021 pledging to end U.S. involvement in so-called endless wars in the aftermath of 20 years of conflict in Afghanistan and Iraq.

“Haiti is in an area of the Caribbean that is very volatile,” Biden said at a news conference with Ruto, who was in Washington for the first state visit to the U.S. by an African leader since 2008. “There’s a lot going on in this hemisphere. So we’re in a situation where we want to do all we can without us looking like America once again is stepping over and deciding this is what must be done.”

Ruto, who will be honored by Biden with a state dinner on the White House grounds in the evening, also gave a climate policy address and met with former President Obama.

World & Nation

‘China has conquered Kenya’: Inside Beijing’s new strategy to win African hearts and minds

Aug. 7, 2017

Ruto is facing legal challenges in Nairobi over the decision to commit Kenyan forces to a conflict thousands of miles from home when his own country has no shortage of economic and security challenges. He said that Kenya, as a democracy, has a duty to help.

“Kenya believes that the responsibility of peace and security anywhere in the world, including in Haiti, is the collective responsibility of all nations and all people who believe in freedom, self-determination, democracy and justice,” Ruto said. “And it is the reason why Kenya took up this responsibility.”

Some analysts say his move could run afoul of a Kenyan High Court ruling in January that found the deployment unconstitutional because of a lack of reciprocal agreements between Kenya and Haiti. A deal was signed in March, before Ariel Henry resigned as Haiti’s prime minister, to try to salvage the plan.

Kenya’s moving ahead “gives the impression that the country is lawless and does not believe in the rule of law,” said Macharia Munene, an international relations professor at United States International University-Africa.

A difficult assignment is ahead for the Kenyan officers.

Haiti has endured poverty, political instability and natural disasters for decades. International intervention in Haiti has a complicated history. A United Nations-approved stabilization mission to Haiti that started in June 2004 was marred by a sexual abuse scandal and the introduction of cholera, which killed nearly 10,000 people. The mission ended in October 2017.

Why California officials traveled to Kenya to find solutions to poverty

Los Angeles County Supervisor Holly Mitchell and Assemblymember Matt Haney of San Francisco visited Kenya to study basic income. They came away with ideas for California.

Aug. 10, 2023

Biden and Ruto also called on economies around the globe to take action to reduce the enormous debt burden crushing Kenya and other developing nations.

The call to action, termed the Nairobi-Washington Vision, comes as Biden presses his appeal to African nations that the U.S. can be a better partner than economic rival China. Beijing has been deepening its investment on the continent — often with high-interest loans and other difficult financing terms.

Biden and Ruto want creditor nations to reduce financing barriers for developing nations that have been constrained by high debt burdens. They also called on international financial institutions to coordinate debt relief and support through multilateral banks and institutions providing better financing terms.

The White House announced $250 million in grants for the International Development Assn., part of the World Bank, to assist poor countries facing crises.

Separately, a $1.2-trillion government funding bill passed by Congress in March allows the U.S. to lend up to $21 billion to an International Monetary Fund trust that provides zero-interest loans to support low-income countries.

“Too many nations are forced to make a choice between development and debt, between investing in their people and paying back their creditors,” Biden said.

U.N. Security Council votes to send Kenya-led multinational force to Haiti

The multinational force’s main mission will be to help combat violent gangs engaged in killings and kidnappings in the troubled country.

Oct. 2, 2023

An Associated Press analysis of a dozen countries most indebted to China — including Kenya — found the debt is consuming an ever-greater amount of tax revenue needed to keep schools open, provide electricity and pay for food and fuel.

Behind the scenes is China’s reluctance to forgive debt and its extreme secrecy about how much money it has lent and on what terms, which has kept other major lenders from stepping in to help.

Kenya’s debt-to-GDP ratio tops 70%, with the bulk of it owed to China. Credit ratings agency Fitch estimates the Kenya will spend almost one-third of its government revenues just on interest payments this year.

The Biden administration has praised Kenya for stepping up in Haiti when so few other countries have agreed to do so. Biden also announced his intention to designate Kenya as a major non-NATO ally, an acknowledgment of the growing security partnership between the countries.

U.S. wants Kenya to lead a 1,000-police force in Haiti. Watchdogs say they’ll export abuse

The United States is praising Kenya’s interest in leading a multinational force in the unstable Caribbean nation, but rights groups have concerns.

Aug. 4, 2023

The designation, while largely symbolic, reflects how Kenya has grown from a regional partner that has long cooperated with U.S. counterterrorism operations on the continent to a major global influence — even extending its reach into the Western Hemisphere. Kenya will be the first sub-Saharan African country to receive the status.

Ruto arrived in Washington on Wednesday and began the visit by meeting with Biden and tech executives from Silicon Valley and Kenya’s growing tech sector.

The White House announced it was working with Congress to make Kenya the first country in Africa to benefit from funding through the CHIPS and Science Act, a 2022 law that aims to reinvigorate the computer chip sector within the United States through tens of billions of dollars in targeted government support.

“I think we have a historic moment to explore investment opportunities between Kenya and the United States,” Ruto said.

Despite the optimistic outlook, Kenya has seen a sharp decline in foreign investment since 2017. Net investment for foreign companies has fallen from $1.35 billion in 2017 to $394 million in 2022, according to the World Bank.

Madhani and Kim write for the Associated Press. AP writers Evelyne Musambi in Nairobi; Josh Boak and Sagar Meghani contributed to this report.

More to Read

U.S. lawmaker’s daughter, son-in-law among 3 missionaries killed by gunmen in Haiti’s capital

May 24, 2024

U.S. military will begin plans to withdraw troops from Niger

April 20, 2024

Biden administration partners with 50 countries to stifle future pandemics

April 16, 2024

Start your day right

Sign up for Essential California for news, features and recommendations from the L.A. Times and beyond in your inbox six days a week.

You may occasionally receive promotional content from the Los Angeles Times.

More From the Los Angeles Times

Closing arguments, jury instructions and maybe a verdict? Major week looms in Trump hush money trial

May 27, 2024

Opinion: Every day is Memorial Day in Ukraine

South Africa’s election might be a defining moment — with new complications. Here’s what to know

At least 2,000 feared dead in Papua New Guinea landslide. These are some challenges rescuers face

Kenya Embassy Washington D.C.

Filter results:

COVID-19 requirements for travel to Kenya

Please check the link for updated information: COVID-19 Requirements for travel to Kenya – Kenya Embassy Washington D.C. (kenyaembassydc.org)

US Embassy to Close Monday, Tuesday Due to Public Holidays

T he US Embassy in Nairobi, Kenya, has declared its closure on Monday, October 9th, and Tuesday, October 10th, due to public holidays.

This decision is in observance of Columbus Day, celebrated in the United States, and Huduma Day, celebrated in Kenya.

“The embassy will be closed on Monday, October 9 in observance of Columbus Day and Tuesday, October 10 in observance of Utamaduni Day,” announced the embassy.

Further, the embassy confirmed that regular activities and all services offered shall resume on Wednesday, October 11.

During this period, essential services such as US Visa information, guidance, interviews, and issuance will be temporarily halted.

Columbus Day

Columbus Day is a Historical Public holiday that commemorates Christopher Columbus’s arrival in the Americas on October 12, 1492.

Also Read:  Little-Known Facts About Haiti; Where Kenya & and U.S Have Interests

Columbus was an Italian explorer credited with initiating European contact with the Americas in 1492.

His journey to the Americas is widely considered and celebrated as the ‘discovery’ of the New World which led to increased exploration and eventual colonization by Europeans.

The day is celebrated in various countries in the Americas, Italy, Spain, and Little Italian islands worldwide. In the United States, it’s observed on the second Monday in October.

This day recognizes the contributions of Americans of Italian descent and marks the beginning of European colonization in the Americas.

Huduma Day on the other hand, previously known as Moi Day, is celebrated on October 10th in Kenya honoring activities that encourage community development. The day previously honored former Kenyan President Daniel Moi.

After being removed as a national holiday following the 2010 constitution, it was reinstated on November 8, 2017, by a High Court ruling.

In December 2019, it was officially renamed Huduma Day.

Embassy Issues Green Card Application Caution

Meanwhile, the US Embassy has issued a cautionary message regarding the Green Card DV-Program 2025 applications.

The embassy has emphasized that the only official way to enter the Green Card Lottery is through the official Department of State , DV Program website .

Also Read:  US to Open Green Card Applications- How to Apply

Moreover, applicants have been reminded that there is no fee to enter and have warned against fraud.

Additionally, the embassy specified that photos must be taken within the last six months.

The US Green Card Lottery offers non-Americans the opportunity to obtain US citizenship rights and willing applicants are advised to visit the official State of Department, DV-Program for more information.

We’re sorry, this site is currently experiencing technical difficulties. Please try again in a few moments. Exception: request blocked

We’re sorry, this site is currently experiencing technical difficulties. Please try again in a few moments. Exception: request blocked

We’re sorry, this site is currently experiencing technical difficulties. Please try again in a few moments. Exception: request blocked