The US Embassy on Monday, February 21, released a list of prohibited items that will not be allowed into its offices in Gigiri, Nairobi.
In the statement, the embassy informed applicants who intend to visit their premises on visa appointments that they will not be granted access with their multiple mobile phones. The embassy noted that it will only allow one phone per person.
"Mobile phones are not allowed within the Embassy. You will be allowed to check one cell phone at the gate but the U.S. Embassy and the security guards are not liable for any loss or damage to your cell phone while it is checked," the statement read in part.
Other electronic devices that have been flagged include: any other battery-operated devices such as computer tablets, digital diaries, pagers, cameras, MP3s, laptops, or portable music players and wearable devices such as Google glasses or body cameras.
In addition, the embassy has barred any oversize shoulder bags, purses, handbags and travel bags, large backpacks, briefcases, or suitcases. Food items will also not be allowed into the Gigiri-based establishment.
Sealed envelopes or packages will also be confiscated at the gate. Visa applicants have been advised to alternatively carry documents needed for their appointment in clear bags.
Other prohibited items include cigarettes, cigars, match boxes, lighters, e-cigarettes, liquid vaping devices and any sharp objects such as scissors, pen knives or nail files. Expectedly, artillery or explosive materials of any kind.
"The list provided above is not exhaustive. Other items may be prohibited at the discretion of security staff. The U.S. Embassy will NOT accept the storage of any of the above prohibited items," read the statement by the embassy.
Visa applicants will also be subjected to a thorough security and health checks at the entrance. They will also be required to physically present the required documents and not send them via postal services.
The embassy announced that it will only accept payment in U.S. dollars or the equivalent in Kenyan Shillings, or credit card. Payment using mobile money wallets will not be accepted.
In September 2021, US Embassy Deputy Consul Elliot Fertik, announced that the US Embassy in Kenya had waived interviews for Kenyans whose visas have expired within one year as part of the reforms the embassy was conducting to improve their service delivery.
