Kenya Gives Foreigners 90 Days to Regularise Documents
Kenya has given foreign nationals operating businesses in the country 90 days to regularise their immigration and business documents, following growing tensions over foreign-owned small businesses.
The government said the exercise will allow foreigners without proper documentation to obtain or update work permits, business licences and other required papers before enforcement measures begin after the 90-day period.
The announcement follows President William Ruto’s recent directive targeting small-scale businesses operated by foreign traders, which triggered anxiety among immigrant communities, particularly Burundians and Congolese.
Hundreds of Burundians have reportedly sought assistance at their embassy in Nairobi, with some saying they fear harassment and are considering returning home.
Kenyan authorities have sought to reassure foreign nationals that the exercise is not intended to target them because of their nationality. Presidential spokesperson Hussein Mohamed said the government would work with foreign embassies to ensure the process is orderly, while warning against xenophobia, intimidation and violence.
Foreign Ministry official Korir Sing’oei also said the registration exercise would help authorities establish where undocumented foreigners live and work, while ensuring they can access legal protection and essential services.
The move comes as Kenya approaches its 2027 elections and faces growing economic pressure and complaints from local traders over competition from foreign-owned businesses. Critics have accused the government of shifting blame for economic difficulties onto immigrants, although authorities maintain that the policy is about enforcing immigration and business regulations.
Kenya hosts thousands of East African nationals, including an estimated 16,000 Burundian refugees and asylum seekers, many of whom are involved in small-scale trade.
