Work Permit Delays and Scrutiny Expected Amid Corruption Investigation at Department of Immigration Services

The Kenyan Ethics and Anti-Corruption Commission (EACC) this week commenced an investigation into allegations of corruption at the Department of Immigration Services (DIS). DIS officials have stated that the investigation should not affect day-to-day operations, but employers should be prepared for the possibility of processing delays and increased application scrutiny in the coming weeks.

The EACC’s mandate is to combat corruption and economic crime in Kenya through education, prevention and law enforcement. Its investigation into the DIS will center on allegations of irregularities in the issuance of work permits over the past six months.

The EACC has confirmed that DIS Director Jane Waikenda will be required to appear and answer questions once she has recovered from her recent hospitalization due to illness. Ms. Waikenda has consistently stated that she is not directly involved in issuing work permits, as she is not a member of the Department’s Approvals Committee that makes the final decision on each application. Ms. Waikenda was appointed to DIS Director by President Kenyatta in June 2013 and immediately initiated an audit to foster integrity and to investigate cases of corruption at the DIS.

What This Means for Employers

Senior DIS officials have informed Fragomen that business will continue as usual despite the EACC investigation. However, employers should anticipate work permit processing delays, as there is a possibility that DIS work will be disrupted while senior officials assist the EACC investigation. It is also possible that work permit applications will be subjected to a greater level of scrutiny during the investigation.

This alert is for informational purposes only. If you have any questions, please do not hesitate to contact the global immigration professional with whom you work at Fragomen or send an email to [email protected].