US Embassy Nairobi Closure: Monday, January 19 for MLK Day

The United States Embassy in Nairobi will be closed on Monday, January 19, in observance of Martin Luther King Jr. Day, a federal public holiday in the United States. The holiday is marked annually on the third Monday of January to honour the life and legacy of Dr Martin Luther King Jr., a key leader of the American civil rights movement. Dr King is remembered for his role in advocating for nonviolent resistance, racial equality, and social justice in the United States. During the closure, routine consular services at the embassy will not be available. These include visa processing, passport services, and general public inquiries. The Embassy is expected to resume normal operations on Tuesday. Emergency services for US citizens will, however, remain available throughout the holiday. The embassy typically provides limited assistance for emergencies involving American nationals, such as serious illness, arrest, or loss of travel documents. Martin Luther King Jr. Day is observed across the United States and at US diplomatic missions worldwide. It commemorates Dr King’s contribution to advancing civil rights through peaceful means and his efforts to end segregation and discrimination. The day also serves as a reminder of his advocacy for equality under the law and civic participation. The US Embassy in Nairobi routinely observes US federal holidays, as well as selected Kenyan public holidays, as part of its official calendar. Holiday closures are usually announced in advance to allow members of the public to plan their visits and service needs accordingly. Members of the public with scheduled appointments are advised to check the embassy’s official communication channels for updates or rescheduling information. Travellers and applicants are encouraged to plan ahead to avoid inconvenience during the closure. The embassy’s closure on January 19 aligns with similar closures at U.S. embassies and consulates around the world observing Martin Luther King Jr. Day.