The Kenyan government has given undocumented foreign nationals and foreign business operators 90 days to regularise their immigration, work permit, business registration and licensing status before enforcement action begins.
The announcement followed President William Ruto’s recent directive targeting small-scale businesses operated by foreign nationals, which sparked anxiety among immigrant communities, particularly Burundians and other East Africans living and working in Kenya.
Kenyan government spokesperson Hussein Mohamed said the 90-day regularisation exercise was intended to bring undocumented foreigners into compliance with the country’s immigration, work-permit, registration and licensing requirements.
He said the government would work with foreign embassies during the process and warned against harassment, intimidation, discrimination and violence against foreign nationals.
The announcement came after hundreds of Burundian nationals gathered at their embassy in Nairobi seeking travel documents, with some saying they feared for their safety following Ruto’s directive. Some expressed plans to return to Burundi despite the government’s new regularisation window.
The Kenyan government said the measure was not intended to force foreigners out of the country but to ensure that those living and working in Kenya comply with existing laws. Government officials also said registered foreign nationals would continue to enjoy the rights and protections provided under Kenyan law.
Kenya’s Directorate of Immigration Services requires foreign nationals who meet the applicable conditions to obtain the relevant permits or passes for employment, business and residence. Applications for work permits and passes are submitted through the government’s electronic Foreign Nationals Services portal.
The government’s clarification is aimed at easing tensions following concerns that Ruto’s earlier directive could lead to a wider crackdown on foreign traders. Authorities have maintained that the policy is focused on regulating small-scale trade and protecting local economic interests while ensuring lawful foreign participation.
Officials have warned that enforcement operations will begin after the 90-day period, making the window an opportunity for undocumented foreigners and affected businesses to put their papers in order and avoid possible penalties or other enforcement measures.
