Kenya is preparing to close its embassy in Bern, Switzerland, ending its diplomatic and consular operations there.
The decision was announced in a notice dated November 9. The embassy said the shutdown had been directed by the Kenyan government.
Its Consular Section is scheduled to close on November 30, 2026. Kenyans living in Switzerland have been urged to complete pending transactions before the deadline.
The announcement has raised questions about access to passports and other essential services. However, the government says alternative arrangements will be provided.
Documents Must Be Collected
Clients whose processed documents are ready have been asked to collect them before November 30. Those who applied for consular services from November 1 will be contacted. They will receive instructions on how to collect their documents. Applicants have also been asked to carry valid identification and their application receipts.
The embassy said details of alternative services would be shared through its website and official communication channels. It thanked the Kenyan community in Switzerland, its clients and diplomatic partners for their support over the years.
Government Explains the Decision
Foreign Affairs Principal Secretary Korir Sing’Oei confirmed the closure on Tuesday, November 10. He said the move was part of a wider review of Kenya’s diplomatic presence abroad.
“This is part of the ongoing rationalisation of Kenya’s diplomatic footprint globally, involving closing some missions and opening new ones in the furtherance of our strategic priorities as a country,” he said.
Sing’Oei added that a more detailed statement would be released later. He also assured Kenyans abroad that access to government services would be maintained.
“Kenyans will continue to receive proximate services despite this rationalisation process,” he said.
Geneva Mission Remains Separate
The closure of the Bern embassy should not be confused with Kenya’s Permanent Mission in Geneva. The Geneva office handles relations with the United Nations and other international organisations. It is a separate diplomatic mission.
The embassy in Bern has handled bilateral relations with Switzerland, alongside consular services for Kenyans living there. The two offices have different responsibilities. The closure notice has not announced the shutdown of the Geneva mission.
A Wider Diplomatic Review
The decision comes as Kenya pursues reforms within its Foreign Service.
In October, the Foreign Affairs Ministry outlined plans to improve performance, accountability and service delivery across its diplomatic network. The reform agenda also placed greater emphasis on trade, investment, tourism and support for Kenyans abroad.
The Ministry said diplomatic missions should deliver practical benefits to citizens and the economy. These include stronger partnerships and improved consular assistance.
However, the government has not yet explained why Bern was selected for closure. Nor has it published a full list of other missions that may be affected.
What It Means for Kenyans in Switzerland
For Kenyans living in Switzerland, the immediate concern is how routine services will be accessed after November 30. These include passport assistance, document authentication and emergency travel support.
The government has promised alternative arrangements. But the office that will handle these services has not yet been formally identified. Until further guidance is issued, applicants are advised to follow updates from the embassy and the Foreign Affairs Ministry.
The Bern closure marks a change in Kenya’s diplomatic presence in Switzerland. The success of the transition will depend on whether Kenyans abroad can continue receiving timely and accessible services.
