The US Embassy has warned Kenyans planning to travel to the US that illegal entry, lying to obtain a visa, working without legal permission, and overstaying after their visa or visa waiver period expires will lead to a permanent ban from the US.
In an official statement dated Friday, April 11, Marc Dillard, Chargé d’Affaires at the US Embassy in Kenya, revealed that while many Kenyans follow the law when travelling to the US, there are still a number using dubious means, forcing US President Donald Trump to tighten the loopholes.
However, not every traveller abides by the law, and those who violate US immigration rules harm both the United States and legitimate travellers.
“To make America safe, strong, and prosperous, President Trump is ensuring adherence to US immigration laws. To put it plainly, if you try to enter the United States illegally, lie to obtain a visa, work without legal permission, or stay in the United States after your visa or visa waiver period expires, you will face serious penalties,” Dillard revealed.
Kenyans planning to lie their way into the US have been warned that the Trump administration has strengthened border security and greatly increased the number of illegal immigrants being arrested and deported.
According to the Embassy, in February 2025 alone, illegal border crossings dropped by 94 per cent compared to February 2024, while arrests of illegal border crossers inside the US increased by 627 per cent — and the country intends to increase this further.
“If you try to cross a US border or remain in the United States illegally, you will be caught, detained, and sent back. You may also be banned from ever returning or face fines and criminal charges,” the statement further warned.
The warning also applies to Kenyans in the US who are looking to extend their stay instead of returning to Kenya.
Apart from being banned from entering the country, culprits also face the possibility of jail time and deportation.
The US has advised Kenyans to follow the law to ensure safety, family well-being, and future opportunities. Those in the US illegally have also been asked to leave, with the Embassy encouraging lawful travel for all.
The warning comes at a time when the US launched a self-deportation application, where immigrants register for self deportation before the authorities find them and forcefully send them to their host countries.
Secretary of State Marco Rubio recently announced new visa restrictions for foreign officials who fail to help stop illegal immigration, building on existing measures against those in the transportation and tourism industries.
