The Ministry of Foreign and Diaspora Affairs has issued a stern warning to Kenyans about the rising cases of visa fraud and fake job offers abroad.
In a notice dated February 4, 2025, the ministry urged citizens to exercise greater caution in their travel arrangements.
The ministry said it continues to receive complaints from individuals who have fallen victim to fraudsters during the visa application process for various countries.
“The Ministry of Foreign and Diaspora Affairs continues to receive complaints from citizens who have been defrauded while applying for travel visas to various countries. It is important that persons seeking to travel to different destinations apply for the correct visas as provided on the official websites of the respective countries,” the statement reads in part.
The ministry further highlighted that visa applications are a personal responsibility, and there is no need for intermediaries.
The advisory specifically cautioned job seekers about the risks of accepting overseas employment without proper verification.
It reminded Kenyans that all 67 Kenyan missions abroad are available to assist in verifying the legitimacy of job opportunities.
“The Ministry advises persons seeking employment in various destinations on the need for due diligence before embarking on any travel arrangements,” the statement emphasized.
Additionally, the statement addressed the legal consequences of visa violations, warning that overstaying a visa could lead to imprisonment, fines, or deportation depending on the laws of the host country.
“It is an offence under immigration law to overstay the duration of a visa. If arrested, one can be liable to imprisonment or a fine as may be determined by the courts of the various jurisdictions,” the statement read.
Previous warnings
In a statement dated January 21, 2025, the Kenyan High Commission in Kuala Lumpur, Malaysia, cautioned Kenyan citizens about a rising trend of job scams targeting them.
The advisory detailed how certain recruitment agencies are exploiting the visa-free entry policy in Malaysia, leaving Kenyans stranded with significant financial burdens.
“These recruitment agencies and individuals are taking advantage of the 30-day visa-free entry, ultimately leaving unsuspecting Kenyans stranded and abandoned, burdened with the costs of return air tickets and overstay fines,” the statement warned.
According to the commission, the 30-day visa-free entry policy is based on a bilateral arrangement of reciprocity, which requires all Kenyans wishing to stay for more than 30 days to obtain a valid visa in compliance with Malaysian immigration laws.
