NAIROBI — Kenya's Ministry of Investments, Trade and Industry clarified Sept. 7 that visa-free entry does not grant foreigners permission to work or conduct business, a statement aimed at stemming what officials say is widespread misuse of tourist and investor visas.
Cabinet Secretary Lee Kinyanjui said Kenya welcomes legitimate investors but that all foreigners must comply with immigration and work permit requirements. The government has identified a pattern of visitors entering under tourist or investor status and then engaging in activities outside the terms of their permits, particularly in retail and local trade.
Kenya introduced visa-free entry for global visitors on Jan. 1, 2024, and removed Electronic Travel Authorisation requirements for most African citizens in January 2025. While these measures have boosted tourism and investment, officials said neither status authorizes employment or business activities.
"Visa-free entry or exemption from eTA requirements does not in itself confer the right to engage in employment, trade or business in Kenya," the Ministry said in its statement.
Foreigners found violating visa provisions face visa revocation under Kenyan law. The government said it would enforce the directive transparently and in compliance with the law.
