Trump Issues Warning To Kenyans Planning To Travel To US

The United States (US) government has issued a stern warning to Kenyans planning to travel to the US that entering the U.S. illegally, using false information to get a visa, working without authorization, or staying beyond the allowed visa period can result in being permanently barred from ever entering the U.S. again.

In an official statement dated Friday, April 11, Marc Dillard, Chargé d’Affaires at the US Embassy in Kenya, emphasized that those who violate American immigration laws will face tough consequences.

The announcement comes as the United States reaffirms its commitment to a secure, legal, and fair immigration system. While the U.S.-Kenya relationship remains strong, anchored by thousands of students, businesspeople, and tourists who travel legally each year, Washington is taking a hard stance on those attempting to abuse the system.

"The foundation of the U.S.-Kenya partnership is the strong relationships between our people, including thousands of students, tourists, and business travelers who move legally between the United States and Kenya every year. However, not every traveler follows the law, and those who violate U.S. immigration law harm both the United States and legitimate travelers," stated Dillard in part.

"To make America safe, strong, and prosperous, President Trump is ensuring adherence to U.S. immigration laws. To put it plainly, if you try to enter the United States illegally, lie to get a visa, work without legal permission, or stay in the United States after your visa or visa waiver period expires, you will face serious penalties:  these include jail time, deportation, and a permanent ban on obtaining a U.S. visa in the future."

The Embassy went on to underscore that fair application of the rule of law is a cornerstone of democratic societies, including the United States and Kenya, warning Kenyans against sneaking into the American superpower nation and avoid being caught that the Donald Trump administration has strengthened border security and greatly increased the number of illegal aliens being arrested and deported.

In February 2025, illegal border crossings dropped 94 percent compared to February 2024, while arrests of illegal border crossers inside the United States increased by 627 percent, with the US government determined to enhance its crackdown on illegal immigrants.

"If you try to cross a U.S. border or remain in the United States illegally, you will be caught, detained, and sent back. You may also be banned from ever returning or face fines and criminal charges," the statement warned.

The Embassy went on to remind Kenyans that the U.S. visa process is the most secure in the world. Yet, it has emerged that some people, Kenyans included, unwisely still try to cheat the system by using fake documents, lying on applications, or staying after their visa expires.

"These are examples of visa fraud, and it is a serious crime.  If you break the law in this way, you may never be allowed to enter the United States again and may face additional penalties. Moreover, failure to tell the whole truth during your visa interview will result in a denial and could lead to long-term ineligibility," cautioned Dillard.

The US government affirmed its stance against illegal immigration, which is also aimed at preventing human trafficking, corruption, and organized crime. Furthermore, those who help others enter the country illegally will not be spared, and this includes smugglers, human traffickers and even foreign government officials who allow illegal immigration to continue.

Recently, Secretary of State Marco Rubio announced a new visa restriction policy for foreign officials, including immigration, customs, and port authority staff, who fail to help stop illegal immigration. This builds on similar existing restrictions for those in the transportation and tourism industries. Those who threaten U.S. security by facilitating illegal immigration will not be welcome in the United States.

"The risks of trying to illegally immigrate to the United States far outweigh any potential benefits. You could lose your life, become a victim of criminals, or end up with a record that damages your future and your family’s future. Illegal entry not only breaks U.S. laws, but it also puts your safety and well-being in jeopardy.

"The penalties are serious: jail time, separation from your family, and permanent bans from re-entering the United States. If you know someone who is in the United States illegally, the best thing you can do for them is encourage them to leave now," urged the Embassy.