Divyanshu G 
The new security agreement between Nairobi and London which has been signed in a controversial way has altered the way the immigration offenses are dealt with fundamentally. Dubbed by critics as “Digital Deportation,” the Kenya-UK Treaty allows for the seamless exchange of sensitive identity data to identify and repatriate individuals violating visa terms.
How Biometric Data Sharing Works
By signing the agreement in February 2026, the UK Home Office and the Directorate of Immigration Services in Kenya will combine their digital border systems. This allows for real-time cross-referencing of Biometric Data Sharing—specifically fingerprints and facial recognition scans—against immigration databases.
Targeting Visa Overstayers
The primary goal is to automate the detection of Visa Overstayers. In the past, the only way of determining whether someone had gone beyond his or her visa expiry status is through manual checking of the individual or by chance. At this time, the integrated system indicates discrepancies immediately. In case a Kenyan national stays longer than the UK (or vice versa) their biometric profile warns the authorities and they may not be allowed to access the public services or even travel into and out of the countries.
The Rise of Digital Borders
This action, has been in line with the transitioning of the UK to an entirely digital border in 2026, where physical stamps are eliminated in favor of e-Visas. Although the officials believe this enhances security and makes traveling simpler, privacy activists fear the issue of function creep where the information gathered to enhance tourism is used to spy on people without proper legal protections.
Official UK High Commission in Kenya Updates
FAQs
1. What data is shared under the Kenya-UK Treaty?
The agreement primarily covers Biometric Data Sharing, including fingerprints, digital facial scans, and immigration status history, to verify identity and legal presence.
2. How will this affect current visa holders?
Valid visa holders do not feel the impact negatively. However, Visa Overstayers will face immediate flagging at borders and potentially automatic denials for future applications.
3. Is this related to the new Electronic Travel Authorisation (ETA)?
Yes. The treaty is an addition to the ETA system of the UK, which guarantees that the digital permission to travel is directly tied to the biometric profile of the user to authorize the automatic tracking.
4. Can I appeal if I am wrongly flagged as an overstayer?
Yes, however, appeals have to pass through the various immigration departments. To demonstrate compliance, it is important to have a digital record of your entry and exit.
