Kenya Closes Embassy in Switzerland

In a surprise move, Kenya has closed down its diplomatic mission in Switzerland, including its embassy and related facilities in Bern. The decision was made following a directive from the Government of the Republic of Kenya in Nairobi. An official statement from the Embassy of the Republic of Kenya in Bern informed Kenyan nationals, clients, and members of the public of the closure.

The Consular Section of the embassy will close on Monday, 30 November 2026. Clients who have been notified that their documents are ready are advised to collect them from the embassy before the end of November 2026. Other clients who applied for consular services from 1 November 2026 will be contacted with arrangements for collecting their processed documents.

The embassy has provided guidelines for collecting documents, stating that clients must bring a valid form of identification and their respective application receipt when collecting credentials. The mission has promised to share updates on alternative consular arrangements for Kenyan nationals living in Switzerland through its website and official channels.

The closure of the embassy in Switzerland is a significant development in Kenya's diplomatic presence worldwide. Kenya currently maintains 25 embassies and consulates in 25 countries across 5 continents. The country also hosts 54 foreign embassies and diplomatic missions in and around the capital, Nairobi, representing countries from 5 continents.

Kenya, officially the Republic of Kenya, is a country located in East Africa with an estimated population of more than 53.3 million as of mid-2025. It is the 27th-most populous country in the world and the seventh-most populous in Africa. The country's diplomatic presence is an essential aspect of its international relations.

The embassy has expressed gratitude to its clients, the Kenyan community in Switzerland, and its friends and partners for their support and understanding over the years. Kenyan nationals in Switzerland can still reach the embassy through its address: Seilerstrasse 4, 3011 Bern, for active contact information and enquiries.

The closure of the embassy in Switzerland raises questions about the implications for Kenyan nationals living in the country and the future of Kenya's diplomatic relations with Switzerland. The embassy's website and official channels will provide updates on alternative consular arrangements for Kenyan nationals.

Key points

• Kenya closed its embassy in Switzerland following a directive from the government in Nairobi.
• The Consular Section of the embassy will close on Monday, 30 November 2026.
• Kenya maintains 25 embassies and consulates in 25 countries worldwide, spanning 5 continents.