United States Embassy in Nairobi

Embassy of USA in Nairobi, Kenya

The U.S. Embassy in Nairobi is the headquarters of the U.S. Mission to Kenya and also hosts the U.S. Mission to Somalia. It is a cornerstone of U.S. policy in East Africa, with a strong focus on security cooperation to combat terrorism (particularly al-Shabaab), massive public health investment through PEPFAR and other programs, and promoting economic growth. The embassy is a symbol of resilience, having been rebuilt after the 1998 terrorist bombing.

Visa Services

The embassy in Nairobi is a major regional hub for visa processing, serving applicants from Kenya and several neighboring countries. It handles a high volume of nonimmigrant visas for tourism, business, and study, as well as all immigrant visas for the region. The visa section is critical for facilitating the strong people-to-people ties between the U.S. and East Africa.

Consular Services

The American Citizen Services (ACS) unit provides a full range of services to the large community of U.S. citizens in Kenya, which includes many aid workers, missionaries, business people, and dual nationals. Services include passports, Consular Reports of Birth Abroad, and emergency assistance.

Trade & Export Support

The U.S. Commercial Service promotes U.S. exports to Kenya, the economic powerhouse of East Africa. It focuses on sectors like healthcare, agribusiness, and ICT. It helps U.S. companies connect with Kenya's dynamic 'Silicon Savannah' tech ecosystem.

Investment Opportunities

The embassy facilitates two-way investment. Through SelectUSA, it encourages Kenyan businesses to invest in the United States. It also supports significant U.S. investment in Kenya's technology, renewable energy, and agricultural sectors.

Business Support

The embassy's Economic Section analyzes the Kenyan economy and advocates for U.S. businesses. It works with the Kenyan government on issues of investment climate, trade policy under AGOA, and anti-corruption efforts to support American companies.

Cultural & Educational Programs

The Public Affairs section manages a wide range of programs to strengthen U.S.-Kenyan ties. It oversees a large Fulbright program and the Mandela Washington Fellowship (YALI), and supports numerous exchanges that connect entrepreneurs, journalists, and community leaders.

Appointment Information

Appointments are mandatory for all consular services and must be scheduled online. Due to high demand from across the region, visa appointment wait times can be significant. Applicants are advised to plan well in advance.

Special Notes

The embassy is located in a large, modern, and extremely secure compound in the Gigiri neighborhood, adjacent to the United Nations complex. The memory of the 1998 bombing means security is paramount, and all visitors face rigorous screening.