The government, through the Ministry of Investments, Trade and Industry, has issued a clarification on work visa applications for foreign nationals, following President Ruto’s orders for foreigners running small businesses to shut down as of Monday, September 7, 2026.
Through a signed press release shared on the Ministry’s official X account on Monday, September 7, 2026, the government clarified that the shutdown orders were part of efforts to streamline trade regulations and protect domestic commerce while upholding existing immigration laws.
The signed statement by Cabinet Secretary Lee Kinyanjui clarifies that in January 2024, the Government of Kenya implemented a visa-free entry regime for visitors worldwide, followed by the removal of Electronic Travel Authorisation (eTA) requirements for citizens of most African countries in January 2025.
According to the Ministry, these reforms have yielded positive outcomes that have boosted tourism and international investment across the country.
However, the statement says that due to this, there have been concerns over the misuse of visa terms by certain visitors entering the country under tourist or investor status.
To address this issue, the government emphasized the necessity of aligning all foreign commercial activities with strict work permit provisions.
The statement warned visitors that visa exemptions or Electronic Travel Authorisation (eTA) waivers do not grant them the right to work, trade, or operate local businesses in Kenya without proper authorization.
“Visa-free entry or exemption from eTA requirements does not in itself confer the right to engage in employment, trade or business in Kenya. Such activities remain subject to the applicable immigration, work permit and other regulatory requirements,” the statement reads.
“Persons found in contravention of the applicable visa provisions will have their visas revoked in accordance with the law.”
The government further stated that all commercial and employment activities will remain subject to applicable immigration procedures, work permits, and relevant regulatory requirements.
Amid growing anxiety among foreign traders awaiting their fate on Monday, September 7, 2026, the government assured that enforcement actions will be conducted in an orderly, legal, and transparent manner, while remaining open to legitimate investors who contribute to job creation and economic growth.
