Any foreign national may find it difficult to operate in a host country due to the strict guidelines and rules set up by the government.
Fortunately, in Kenya, there’s an efficient and more convenient solution for this issue.
Registration of foreign nationals is governed by the Kenya Citizenship and Immigration Act of 2011 part VII (56) 2 laws of Kenya.
The law requires that all foreigners resident within Kenya for a period exceeding 90 days be registered.
Section 2 of the repealed Alien Restriction Act Cap 173 Laws of Kenya defines an alien as any person who is not a citizen of Kenya.
A foreign national is defined in Part 1 of the newly enacted Kenya Citizenship and Immigration Act 2011 as any person who is not a citizen of Kenya.
What is eFNS ?
This is the Department of Immigration Services Foreign Nationals Portal, which falls under the Ministry of Interior and Coordination of National Government.
On this portal, foreign national will be able to find all required information necessary for your alien card (eFNS certificate), pass, permit or citizenship application.
Who qualifies to apply for eFNS?
• Visitors staying beyond 90 days
• Residents on a work permit
• Resident dependants
• Students
• Permanent residents
Note: A foreign national’s registration certificate remains the property of the Kenya government. The holder shall surrender it to the nearest immigration officer when s/he ceases to reside in Kenya or to at the port of departure from Kenya.
Any person who contravenes any provision or requirement of an order issued to foreign national commits an offence and is liable to a fine or imprisonment or both.
What is the registration fees?
• Initial registration fees are Ksh 2,000.
• Subsequent renewal per year or part thereof is Ksh 1,000.
• Duplicate or lost foreign national certificate is Ksh 2,000.
• For the correction of civil status, there are no charges.
Disclaimer
• Registration fee is non-refundable
• Incomplete applications will not be accepted.
• Engaging in any form of business or employment without a required permit or pass is an offence.
• The applicant must be present in person when the application is presented at the immigration headquarters or regional offices for registration.
• Giving false or misleading information is an offence punishable by law
• Any person who contravenes any provision or requirement of an order issued to foreign national commits an offence and is liable to a fine, imprisonment or both
Note: Penalty in form of arrears will be charged at Kshs.1000 for every year or part thereof for the years not registered since the commencement of the residency.
How to apply for EFNS certificate (Alien card), pass, permit or citizenship
You need to:
• Create a login account within the Government of Kenya Single Sign-On portal
• Log in using the account you have created above to access eFNS portal
• Once logged in the eFNS portal, select the "Apply now" Link
• Click on the "Submit Applications" tab and select the Foreign National tab. If you are already logged in to eFNS, you can click here to make an application.
• After completing the application form, an invoice will be generated which you can see by clicking on the "Dashboard" then "Payments" Tab. If you have already logged in eFNS, you can click here to make a payment.
• If unable to pay using any of the online modes, print your application form by clicking on "Dashboard" then "My Applications" Tab (If you have already logged in eFNS, you can click here to print your application). Present your application with all the requirements at the Immigration Counter at Nyayo House or other regional offices, Nairobi for payments and processing.
• You shall receive automatic notifications via email and on your online account about the progress of your application.
What are the requirements for registration of an alien card?
A reporting foreign national shall produce the following as part of the application for a foreign national certificate/alien card:
• A duly filled signed online application Form 50. You will print out the form at the end of the application for a foreign certificate (Alien card).
• A copy of a valid passport to establish identity and nationality
• Two recent coloured passport size photographs (White background) taken not more than twelve months before the date of application
• A resident person will be required to produce the above in addition to a valid permit or pass
• If the application is for a renewal the applicant will require to produce a previous foreign certificate (Alien card)
• For a lost alien card, the applicant will be required to produce valid police abstract as proof of loss
Note: All the requirements listed above must accompany the printed online application form during the presentation at Nyayo House.
What are the requirements for registration of re-entry pass?
Registration of Re-entry pass is governed by the Kenya Citizenship and Immigration Act of 2011 part VII (56) 2 laws of Kenya.
Re-entry passes are only issued to holders of dependant passes.
Here are the requirements:
• A duly filled signed online application. You will print out the form at the end of the application for Re-entry pass.
• The original passport of the dependant and a copy of the same
• The original and copy of work/resident permit if the principal is a resident
• The original and copy of Kenyan passport if the principal is a Kenyan
• The original and copy of dependant pass
• A fee of Kshs 1000/= per year or part of
What are the requirements for registration of an extension of visitor’ pass?
Extension of visitor's pass applies to a person (s) with a visitor's pass and seeking to extend the duration of stay in the country.
Here are the requirements:
• A duly filled signed online application. You will print out the form at the end of the application for Visitor's pass extension. In case you want to reprint your application form, you can do.
• The original and copy of Visitor's pass
• A copy of valid passport
What are the requirements for registration of permanent residency by Citizens of Kenya (Category A)?
This applies to Kenya citizens by birth who have since renounced or lost citizenship status and are denied the opportunity by their countries of domicile to hold dual citizenship. Children and spouses of these applicants can also apply.
Here are the requirements:
• An application letter
• A print out of the duly filled permanent residence application form (form 23) signed and stamped by Magistrate/Commissioner for oaths. You can also access your previous applications by clicking here
• A print out of the duly filled Category A - Questionnaire for Intending Applicants which is generated upon completion of the online application.
• Proof of Previous Kenya Citizenship-Copy of birth certificate/ Identity card or Passport
• 2 Recent passport size photographs (a soft copy will also be required during application)
• Police Clearance Certificate issued by the country of domicile
• Proof of current citizenship(Registration/naturalization certificate and Passport)
• Copy of the Police Clearance Certificate
• Copy of Checklist. click here to download
What are the requirements for registration of Permanent Residency by Holders of work permits (Category B)?
This applies to persons who have held Kenya work permits for at least seven (7) years and have been continuously resident in the country for three years immediately preceding the permanent residence application. It also includes their spouses and children.
Here are the requirements:
Applicants must provide proof of lawful residence on work permits for a minimum of 7 years and with continuous 3 years residency in Kenya preceding the application for permanent residency.
Applicants must demonstrate a strong position to make a tangible contribution to socio-economic development of the country hence priority will be given to investors and highly qualified professionals.
In, this framework, applicants may be required to appear in person for an interview to confirm or verify these facts. Applicants must fulfil the following documentation requirements:
• An application letter
• A print out of the duly filled permanent residence application form (form 23) signed and stamped by Magistrate/Commissioner for oaths. You can also access your previous applications by clicking here.
• A filled Category B - Questionnaire for Intending Applicants which is generated upon completion of the online application.
• Duly filled Residence status form which is generated automatically after completion of your application
• Copy of valid passport
• 2 passport size photographs (a soft copy will also be required during application)
• Police Clearance Certificate (Original)
• Copy of valid tax compliance certificate
• Copy of valid foreigner certificate (Allien card)
• Introductory letter from employer (applicable for employees)
• Copy of the Police Clearance Certificate
• Copy of Checklist. click here to download
If the applicant is a spouse of a permit holder then they must provide the following documentation:
• An application letter
• A print out of the duly filled permanent residence application form (form 23) signed and stamped by Magistrate/Commissioner for oaths. You can also access your previous applications by clicking here.
• A filled Category B - Questionnaire for Intending Applicants which is generated upon completion of the online application.
• Duly filled Residence status form which is generated automatically after completion of your application
• Certified copy of the marriage certificate
• Copy of dependent pass/work permit(s)
• 2 passport size photographs (a soft copy will also be required during application)
• Police Clearance Certificate (Original)
• Introductory letter from employer (applicable for employees)
• Copy of valid passport
• Copy of valid foreigner certificate (Allien card)
If the applicant is a Child of a work permit holder then they must provide the following documentation:
• An application letter
• A print out of the duly filled permanent residence application form (form 23) signed and stamped by Magistrate/Commissioner for oaths. You can also access your previous applications by clicking here.
• A filled Category B - Questionnaire for Intending Applicants which is generated upon completion of the online application.
• Certified copy of the birth certificate
• Certified copies of the parents birth certificates
• 2 passport size photographs (a soft copy will also be required during application)
• Copy of dependent pass
• Copy of valid passport
What are the requirements for registration of Permanent Residency by Children of Kenya Citizens (Category C)?
This applies to children of Kenya citizens born outside the country and have acquired foreign citizenship of their country of residence/domicile.
Here are the requirements:
• An application letter
• A print out of the duly filled permanent residence application form (form 23) signed and stamped by Magistrate/Commissioner for oaths. You can also access your previous applications by clicking here
• A filled Category C - Questionnaire for Intending Applicants which is generated upon completion of the online application.
• Certified copies of the birth certificate
• Certified copies of the parents birth certificates/ Kenya Passport(s)/ Identity Card(s) (proof of Kenya citizenship)
• Certified copy of the current passport
• 2 passport size photographs (a soft copy will also be required during application)
• Copy of the Police Clearance Certificate
• Copy of Checklist. click here to download
What are the requirements for registration of Permanent Residency by Spouses of Kenya Citizens (Category D)?
This applies to spouses of Kenya citizens married for at least three years. Applicants must give ample proof of marriage and family life besides documentation furnished. In this framework, applicants may be required to appear in person for an interview to confirm or verify these facts.
Here are the requirements:
• An application letter by Kenyan spouse
• A print out of the duly filled permanent residence application form (form 23) signed and stamped by Magistrate/Commissioner for oaths. You can also access your previous applications by clicking here
• A duly filled Category D - Questionnaire for Intending Applicants which is generated upon completion of the online application.
• Duly filled Residence status form generated automatically upon completion of the online application
• Police Clearance Certificate ( Original)
• Demonstrate marriage and family life
• Certified copy of the marriage certificate
• Copies of either passport/Identity card/ and birth certificate of Kenyan spouse
• Copy of passport /birth certificate/ of the foreign spouse
• Copies of work permit(s)/dependant pass of a spouse
• 2 passport size photographs (a soft copy will also be required during application)
• Copy of valid foreigner certificate (Allien card)
• Copy of the Police Clearance Certificate
• Copy of Checklist. click here to download
What is an Immigration Permit?
A Work Permit is a document issued by the Director of Immigration Services, under the provisions of section 40 of the Kenya Citizenship and Immigration Act, 2011, to enable foreign national (s) enter Kenya and engage in trade, prospecting, farming, business, professional employment, missionary activities or even reside in Kenya.
The Director issues Work/Residence permits upon the recommendation of the Permit Determination Committee, an inter-ministerial Committee appointed by the Cabinet Secretary Ministry of Interior and Coordination of National Government under section 40(1) of the Kenya Citizenship and Immigration Act, 2011.
Any person aggrieved by the decision of the Director regarding work/residence permit applications may appeal to the Cabinet Secretary, for review of the decision (section 22(1) of Kenya Citizens and Foreign Nationals Management Service Act, 2011).
There are various classes of permits as provided for under Section 36(1), as read with the seventh schedule of the Kenya Citizenship and Immigration Regulations, 2012 as listed below:-
What are the requirements for registration of Immigration permits?
• Duly filled and signed Form 25 online form. You will print out the form at the end of the application. You can also access your previous applications by clicking here
• Two copies of a detailed and signed cover letter from the employer/organization addressed to the Director of Immigration Services
• Copy of a valid national passport
• Two(2) recent passport size coloured photos (for both new and renewal)
• Current Immigration status if in the country
• Documents in foreign languages should be translated into English by either the Embassy, Public Notary, or authorized /recognized institution
• Copy of any previous permit(s) and or pass (es) held
• Necessary licenses and registrations to prospect for minerals to mine.
• Proof of funds to invest, at least USD 100,000/=
• Current License held for prospecting minerals (for renewals
• Copy of PIN certificate
• Current, Signed audited accounts for the last year (for renewals)
• Tax compliance certificate from KRA(for renewals)
• Copy of Checklist. click here to download
Application of Permit Class A: (For prospecting and miners.)
This permit is issued to a person who intends to engage, whether alone or in partnership, in prospecting for minerals or mining in Kenya, and who-
• Has obtained, prospecting or mining right or license that may be necessary for the purpose;
• Has in his own right and at his full and free disposition sufficient capital and other resources for the purpose;
• Whose engagement in the prospecting or mining will be of benefit to Kenya
Application of Permit Class B: (Agriculture and animal husbandry (KEP/B).)
This permit is issued to a person who intends to engage, whether alone or in partnership, in the business of agriculture or animal husbandry in Kenya, and who –
• Has acquired, or has received all permissions that may be necessary in order to acquire, an interest in land of sufficient size and suitability for the purpose;
• Has in his own right and at his full and free disposition sufficient capital and other resources for the purpose.
• And whose engagement in that business will be of benefit to Kenya.
Application of Permit Class C: (Prescribed profession (KEP/C).)
This permit is issued to a person who is a member of a prescribed profession who intends to practice that profession, whether alone or in partnership, in Kenya, and who –
• Possesses the prescribed qualification (Eighth schedule of The Kenya Citizenship and Immigration Regulations, 2012)
• Has in his/her own right and at his/her full and free disposition sufficient capital and other resources
• Is registered with the professional body, association or institute to which he/she belongs in his/her own country; and
• Whose practice of that profession will be of benefit to Kenya
Note: The prescribed Professions, as provided for in the Kenya Citizenship and Immigration Regulations, 2012 are;
Medical profession, Dentists, Legal profession, Surveyors, Estate Agent, Valuer, and Land Agent, Architects or Quantity surveyors, Pharmacists, Veterinary Surgeons, Engineers, Nursing Profession, Physiotherapists, Accountants, Chartered Secretaries, Actuaries, Scientist, Information and Communication Technology Experts.
Application of Permit Class D: (Employment (KEP/D).)
This permit is issued to a person who is offered specific employment by a specific employer, the government of Kenya or any other person or authority under the control of the Government or an approved technical aid scheme under the United Nations Organization or some other approved Agency (not being an exempted person under section 34 (3), who is in possession of skills or qualifications that are not available in Kenya and whose engagement in that employment will be of benefit to Kenya.
Application of Permit Class F: (Specific manufacturing(KEP/F).)
This permit is issued to a person who intends to engage, whether alone or in partnership, in a specific manufacture in Kenya, and who:
• Has obtained any license, registration or other authority or permission that may be necessary for the purpose;
• Has in his own right and at his full and free disposition sufficient capital and other resources for the purpose;
• Whose engagement in that manufacture will be of benefit to Kenya.
Application of Permit Class G: (Specific trade, business or consultancy (KEP/G).)
This permit is issued to a person who intends to engage, whether alone or in partnership, in a specific trade, business, consultancy or profession (other than a prescribed profession) in Kenya, and who;
• Has obtained any license, registration or other authority or permission that may be necessary for the purpose;
• Has in his/her own right and at his/her full and free disposition sufficient capital and other resources for the purpose;
• Whose engagement in trade, business, consultancy or profession will be of benefit to Kenya.
Application of Permit Class I: (Approved religious or charitable activities (KEP/I).)
This permit is issued to a who is a member of an institution registered under the Society’s Act who is engaged as a missionary, Member of a company limited by guarantee, Member of a trust registered under the Trustees Act and is approved by the Government of Kenya, and whose presence in Kenya will be of benefit to Kenya.
• Member of an institution registered under the Society’s Act who is engaged as a missionary
• Member of a company limited by guarantee.
• Member of a trust registered under the Trustees Act and is approved by the Government of Kenya, and whose presence in Kenya will be of benefit to Kenya.
Application of Permit Class K: (Ordinary residents(KEP/K).)
This permit is issued to a person who;
• Is not less than thirty-five years of age
• Has in his own right and at his full and free disposition an assured annual income of not less than USD 24,000 amount that is derived from sources other than any such employment, occupation, trade, business or profession as is referred to in the description of any of the classes specified in this Schedule, and being an income that either; Is derived from sources outside, and will be remitted to Kenya; or Is derived from pension or annuity payable from, sources in Kenya/li>
• Undertakes not to accept employment, paid or unpaid, or engage in any income generating activity of any kind without a permit of the relevant class;
• Whose presence in Kenya will be of benefit to Kenya
Application for Permit Class M: (Refugees (KEP/M).)
This permit is issued to a person who has been granted refugee status in Kenya in accordance with the refugee law of Kenya and any spouse of such a refugee who intends to take up employment or engage in a specific occupation, trade, business or profession.
What are Immigration Passes?
There are three (3) main types of passes issued in Kenya i.e special pass, dependent pass and Student/Research/Internship pass. These are specified under Section 26 of the Kenya Citizenship and Immigration Regulations, 2012.
Who qualifies for a Special Pass?
This document is issued under regulation 34 of the Kenya Citizenship and Immigration Regulations, 2012 to person(s) who wishes to enter Kenya or remain in Kenya for:-
• A limited period for the purpose of applying a review of a decision denying a permit
• Applying for a permit or pass
• Temporarily conducting any business, trade or profession
What are the requirements for application of a Special Pass?
• A dully filled and signed Form 32 - Special Pass online application form (Stamped by Institution). You will print out the form at the end of the application for a special pass. In case you want to reprint your application form, you can do so by going to "My Applications" section here
• Detailed and Signed Cover letter addressed to the Director of Immigration Services from the applicant/organization
• Two (2) recent passport size colour photos.
• Copy of passport (the bio-data page)
• Current Immigration status if in the country
• Copy of Registration Certificate for the organization.
• Certified copies of academic and professional certificates
• Documents in foreign languages should be translated into English by either the Embassy, Public Notary, or authorized /recognized institution
• Copy of any permit or passes held.
• Copy of any official receipt or acknowledgement for those waiting for permits processing.
• Clearance letter from the relevant authorities.
• Copy of Checklist. click here to download
Note: Keep in mind that the institution is required to provide all information material regarding any previous permit/passes applied for and/or issued. It is an offence under section 53(1) (a) of the Kenya Citizenship and Immigration Act, 2011 laws of Kenya for a person to knowingly mislead an Immigration Officer.
Notification of approval is not an authority to engage in business, profession, employment or residence without first obtaining the Special Pass.
Failure to pay for the Special Pass within thirty (30) days from the date of notification will render the approval null and void under section 56 of the Immigration Regulation 2012.
What are the requirements for application of a Dependent Pass?
This document is issued to a person whose spouse, parent or guardian is lawfully entitled to enter Kenya ( 27 (1) of the Kenya Citizenship and Immigration Regulations, 2012).
Here are the requirements:
• A duly filled and signed Form 28 - Dependant Pass online form. You will print out the form at the end of the application for a dependent pass. In case you want to reprint your application form, you can do so by going to "My Applications" section here
• Detailed and Signed Cover letter from the applicant addressed to the Director of Immigration Services
• Two (2) recent coloured passport size photographs of the dependant
• Copy of a valid national passport / National ID (bio-data page) for both the applicant and the Dependant.
• Evidence of the relationship between the applicant and the dependant i.e. duly certified copies of marriage certificate, birth certificate, and death certificate, whichever applicable
• Proof of sufficient and assured income to sustain self and the dependant.
• Documents in foreign languages should be translated into English by either the Embassy, Public Notary, or authorized /recognized institution
• Documentary Proof of any other condition leading to dependency e.g. Medical condition, disability, age among others.
• A valid copy of the permit for those applicants holding a work permit (at least six months prior to the date of application).
• Copy of Checklist. click here to download
Note: Keep in mind that it is an offence for a person to knowingly mislead an Immigration Officer.
Notification of approval is not an authority to engage in business, profession, employment or residence without first obtaining the dependant Pass.
It is an offence while in possession of a dependant pass to engage in any form of trade or employment either for gain or not.
What are the requirements for application of a Kenya Student pass?
This is a document issued to applicants (foreign students) (section 30(1) of the Kenya Citizenship and Immigration Regulations 2012, who wish to pursue their education in Kenya's Education or Training Institutions where they have been accepted or admitted. The applicant (foreign student) must be accepted as a student by an approved Educational or Training Establishment.
Here are the requirements:
• A duly filled, signed and stamped application Form 30, by the institution's authorized personnel (Both new and renewal cases). You will print out the form at the end of the application for a Student pass. In case you want to reprint your application form, you can do so by going to "My Applications" section here
• Detailed and Signed Cover letter addressed to the Director of Immigration Services from the institution indicating the course to be pursued and the duration - both new and renewal cases
• Signed commitment letter from the sponsor - both new and renewal cases
• National passport copy of the sponsor - both new and renewal cases
• Proof of funds for self-sponsored students - both new and renewal cases
• For minors, consent letter from the parent - both new and renewal cases
• Copy of parent's national passport and a copy of birth certificate of the minor should be attached as proof of relationship (for minors). - both new and renewal cases
• Copy of a valid national passport both new and renewal cases (the bio-data page)
• Current immigration status for the pupil/student- both new and renewal cases (If in the country)
• Two (2) recent passport size colour photos. - both new and renewal cases
• Duly certified Copies of basic academic certificates for those joining Tertiary Institutions and Universities -new cases
• Documents in foreign languages should be translated into English by either the Embassy, Public Notary, or authorized /recognized institution -both new and renewal cases
• Copy of the school's/college registration certificate from the Ministry of Education - new cases
• Clearance letter from Department of Refugee Affairs for refugees. - both new and renewal cases
• Certified copies of progress report/transcripts obtained(by the issuing institution) -for renewal cases
• Copy of student's pass previously held -for renewal cases
• For minor attach a copy of parent's Kenya residence permit if not a boarder.
• Police Clearance Certificate from the country of origin, or if a resident, from the Kenya Police Service
• Copy of Checklist. click here to download
What are the requirements for application of a Kenya Internship/Research pass?
This is a document issued to person(s) seeking to enter and remain in Kenya for the purpose of undertaking an Internship or academic research within Kenya. The applicant must be accepted as an intern or researcher in an institution within Kenya.
Here are the requirements:
• A duly filled, signed and stamped application Form 30, by the institution's authorized personnel (Both new and renewal cases). You will print out the form at the end of the application for a Student pass. In case you want to reprint your application form, you can do so by going to "My Applications" section here
• Detailed and Signed cover letter from the institution indicating the internship or research topic to be pursued and the duration and should be addressed to the Director of Immigration Services
• Copy of a valid national passport (the bio-data page)
• The current immigration status of the pupil/student(if in the country)
• Two (2) recent passport size colour photos
• Duly certified copies of academic certificates and CV
• Documents in foreign languages should be translated into English by either the Embassy, Public Notary, or authorized /recognized institution
• Copy of research permit from the National Council for Science and Technology for those undertaking research programs
• Police Clearance Certificate from the country of origin, or if a resident, from the Kenya Police Service
• Copy of Checklist. click here to download
Note: Keep in mind that it is an offence for a person to knowingly mislead an Immigration Officer.
Notification of approval is not an authority to engage in business, profession, employment or residence without first obtaining the student's Pass.
It is an offence while in possession of a student's pass to engage in any form of trade or employment either for gain or not.
What are the requirements for the application of dual citizenship?
Section 8(3) of the Kenya Citizenship and Immigration Act, 2011 provides that: every dual citizen shall disclose his/her other citizenship in the prescribed manner within three months of becoming a dual citizen.
Section 8(4) of the Kenya Citizenship and Immigration Act, 2011 provides that: a dual citizen who fails to disclose the dual citizenship in the prescribed manner commits an offence and shall be liable, on conviction, to a fine not exceeding five million shillings or imprisonment for a term not exceeding three years or both.
Here are the requirements:
• A printed online application form 3 (Print the form after completing your application)
• 2 passport size photographs
• Copy of birth certificate
• Copy of Kenyan passport
• Copy of Kenyan identity card
• Copy of the other country’s passport
• Copy of the other country’s Citizenship certificate
• Copy of the Police Clearance Certificate
• Copy of Checklist. click here to download
What are the requirements for an endorsement on a dual citizenship on a non-Kenyan passport(s)?
Section 8(1) of the Kenya Citizenship and Immigration Regulation 2012 provides that the passport of any other country that is held by a dual citizen may, upon application by the holder, be endorsed to indicate that the holder is a citizen of Kenya.
Here are the requirements:
• A printed online application form 4 (Print the form after completing your application)
• 2 passport size photographs
• Copy of birth certificate
• Copy of applicant's Kenyan passport or Parent's Kenyan Passport
• Copy of Kenyan identity card
• Copy of the other country’s passport
• Copy of the other country’s Citizenship certificate
• Copy of the Police Clearance Certificate
• Copy of Checklist. click here to download
What are the requirements for the application to regain Kenya citizenship?
Section 10(1) of the Kenya Citizenship and Immigration Act, 2011 provides :
• A person who was a citizen of Kenya by birth and who ceased to be a citizen of Kenya because he or she acquired the citizenship of another country may apply in the prescribed manner, to the Cabinet Secretary to regain Kenyan citizenship.
• The application under subsection (1) shall be accompanied by:
o proof of applicant’s previous Kenyan citizenship;
o proof of citizenship of the other country;
Here are the requirements:
• A printed online application form 1 (Print the form after completing your application)
• 2 passport size photographs
• Copy of Kenyan ID
• Copy of Kenyan passport
• Copy of the other country’s passport
• Copy of the other country’s citizenship certificate
• Copy of the Police Clearance Certificate
• Copy of Checklist. click here to download
What are the requirements for registration as a Kenyan citizenship by a spouse of a Kenyan citizen?
Section 11 of the Kenya Citizenship and Immigration Act, 2011 provides for a person who has been married to a citizen of Kenya for a period of at least seven years shall be entitled, on the application, in the prescribed manner to be registered as a citizen of Kenya, if
• the marriage was solemnized under a system of law recognized in Kenya, whether solemnized in Kenya or outside Kenya;
• the applicant has not been declared a prohibited immigrant under this Act or any other law;
• the applicant has not been convicted of an offence and sentenced to imprisonment for a term of three years or longer;
• the marriage was not entered into for the purpose of acquiring a status or privilege in relation to immigration or citizenship; and
• the marriage was subsisting at the time of the application.
Here are the requirements
• A printed online application form 8 (Print the form after completing your application)
• 2 passport size photographs
• Copy of marriage certificate
• Certificate of good conduct
• A joint sworn affidavit
• Copy of dependants pass/permit
• Copy of applicant’s passport
• Copy of spouses Kenyan passport
• Questionnaire for intending applicants (Print the questionnaire after completing your application)
• Copy of the Police Clearance Certificate
• Copy of Checklist. click here to download
What is the requirement for the application of Kenyan citizenship by widows and widowers of a Kenyan citizen?
Section 12(1) of the Kenya Citizenship and Immigration Act, 2011 provides for :
A foreign national who has been married to a citizen who but for the death of the citizen would have been entitled, after a period of seven years, to be registered as a citizen of Kenya under section 11, shall be deemed to be lawfully present in Kenya for the unexpired portion of the seven years and shall be eligible for registration as a citizen on application in the prescribed manner upon expiry of the seven-year period.
The conditions for registration provided in section 11 shall apply to a widow or widower who has applied for registration under this section.
A widow or widower who marries a non-citizen before the expiry of the period of seven years shall not be entitled to acquire citizenship by registration under this section.
Here are the requirements
• A printed online application form 9 (Print the form after completing your application)
• 2 passport size photographs
• Copy of marriage certificate
• Copy of death certificate of spouse
• Certificate of good conduct
• A sworn affidavit
• Copy of dependants pass/permit
• Copy of applicant’s passport
• Copy of the Police Clearance Certificate
• Copy of Checklist. click here to download
What are the requirements for the application of a Kenyan citizenship by lawful residents?
Section 13(1) of the Kenya Citizenship and Immigration Act, 2011 provides :
• A person who has attained the age of majority and capacity who has been lawfully resident in Kenya for a continuous period of at least seven years may on application be registered as a citizen if that person
o Has been ordinarily resident in Kenya for a period of seven years, immediately preceding the date of application;
o Has been a resident under the authority of a valid permit or has been exempted by the Cabinet Secretary, in accordance with section 34(3)(h) and who is not enjoying the privileges and immunities under the Privileges and Immunities Act (Cap. 179);
o Has resided in Kenya throughout the period of twelve months immediately preceding the date of the application;
o Has adequate knowledge of Kenya and of the duties and rights of citizens as contained in this act;
o Is able to understand and speak Kiswahili or a local dialect;
o Understands the nature of the application under subsection (1);
o Has not been convicted of an offence and sentenced to imprisonment for a term of three years or longer;
o Satisfies the Cabinet Secretary that he or she intends to reside in Kenya after registration;
o Has been determined, through an objective criterion, and the justification made, in writing, that he or she has made or is capable of making a substantive contribution to the progress or advancement in any area of national development within Kenya; and
o Is not an adjudged bankrupt.
Here are the requirements
• A printed online application form 10 (Print the form after completing your application)
• 2 passport size photographs
• Questionnaire (Print the questionnaire after completing your application)
• Permit held for the last 7 years
• Certificate of good conduct
• Letter of proof of contribution made in national development
• Personal bank statement
• Applicant’s passport copy
• Declaration Concerning Residence (Form N)
• Oath of allegiance
• Copy of the Police Clearance Certificate
• Copy of Checklist. click here to download
What are the requirements for the application of Kenyan citizenship for a child?
Section 13(3) of the Kenya Citizenship and Immigration Act, 2011 provides :
• A child of a citizen by registration who was born before the parent acquired citizenship may on application by the parent or legal guardian be registered as a Kenya Citizen upon:
o Production of documents conferring Kenyan Citizenship to any of the parents;
o Production of the child's birth certificate; and
o Proof of lawful residence of the child in Kenya.
Section 14 of the Kenya Citizenship and Immigration Act, 2011 provides :
• A child who is not a citizen, but is adopted by a citizen, is entitled on the application in the prescribed manner by the adopting parent or legal guardian to be registered as a citizen upon:
o the production of proof of the Kenyan citizenship of the adopting parent;
o the production of a valid adoption certificate issued in a reciprocating state or other jurisdiction whose orders, decrees are recognized in Kenya; and
o proof of lawful residence of the child in Kenya.
Here are the requirements
• A printed online application form 11 (Print the form after completing your application)
• 2 passport size photographs
• Copy of birth certificate or local adoption certificate
• Copy of parents Kenyan passport and Certificate of Registration
• Copy of dependants pass
• Copy of parent’s identity card
• Copy of applicant’s passport
• Certificate of good conduct for children 18 years and above
• Copy of the Police Clearance Certificate
• Copy of Checklist. click here to download
What are the requirements for the application of Kenyan citizenship for a person with a disability?
Section 13(4) of the Kenya Citizenship and Immigration Act, 2011 provides :
• A child or person with a disability who is a dependant of any biological parent or legal guardian who is a citizen of Kenya by registration shall upon an application made on their behalf in a prescribed manner be registered as a citizen, upon—
o production of documents conferring Kenyan citizenship to any of the parents or the legal guardian;
o production of the child’s or the person with a disability’s birth certificate; and
o proof of lawful residence of the child or person with disability in Kenya
Here are the requirements
• A printed online application form 12 (Print the form after completing your application)
• Copy of Passport
• Copy of Birth Certificate
• Proof of lawful residence in Kenya
• Copy of parent’s/legal guardian certificate of registration
• Medical certificate on disability
• Certificate of good conduct for children above 18 Years
• Copy of the Police Clearance Certificate
• Copy of Checklist. click here to download
What are the requirements for the application of Kenyan citizenship by a stateless person?
Section 15 of the Kenya Citizenship and Immigration Act, 2011 provides :
• A person who does not have an enforceable claim to the citizenship of any recognized state and has been living in Kenya for a continuous period since 12th December, 1963, shall be deemed to have been lawfully resident and may, on application, in the prescribed manner be eligible to be registered as a citizen of Kenya if that person:
o has adequate knowledge of Kiswahili or a local dialect;
o has not been convicted of an offence and sentenced to imprisonment for a term of three years or longer;
o intends upon registration as a citizen to continue to permanently reside in Kenya or to maintain a close and continuing association with Kenya; and
o the person understands the rights and duties of a citizen
Here are the requirements
• A printed online application form 13 (Print the form after completing your application)
• 2 passport size photographs
• Certificate of good conduct
• Proof of residence in Kenya since 12/12/1963
• A sworn affidavit of the continuous residence in Kenya
• Copy of the Police Clearance Certificate
• Copy of Checklist. click here to download
What are the requirements for the application of Kenyan citizenship by migrants?
Section 16 of the Kenya Citizenship and Immigration Act, 2011 provides :
• A person who voluntarily migrated into Kenya before the 12th December 1963, and has been continuously living in Kenya shall be deemed to have been lawfully resident and may, on the application in a prescribed manner, be eligible to be registered as a citizen of Kenya if that person:
o does not hold a passport or an identification document of any other country;
o has adequate knowledge of Kiswahili or a local dialect;
o has not been convicted of an offence and sentenced to imprisonment for a term of three years or longer;
o intends upon registration as a citizen to continue to permanently reside in Kenya or to maintain a close and continuing association with Kenya; and
o the person understands the rights and duties of a citizen.
Here are the requirements:
• A printed online application form 14 (Print the form after completing your application)
• 2 passport size photographs
• Certificate of good conduct
• Sworn affidavit of not holding a passport or an identification document of any other country
• Proof of residence in Kenya since 12/12/1963
• A sworn affidavit of the continuous residence in Kenya
• Copy of the Police Clearance Certificate
• Copy of Checklist. click here to download
What are the requirements for the application of a Kenyan citizenship descendant of stateless persons and migrants?
Section 17 of the Kenya Citizenship and Immigration Act, 2011 provides :
• A person who has attained the age of eighteen years and whose parents are or in the case of deceased parents were eligible to be registered as a citizen under sections 15 and 16 may, upon application in the prescribed manner be registered as a citizen of Kenya if—
o there is sufficient proof that the parents of that person fall within the class of persons referred to in section 15 and 16 of this Act;
o the person was born in Kenya and has been continuously living in Kenya since birth;
o the person does not hold and has never held a passport or identification documents of any other country;
o the person understands and speaks Kiswahili or a local dialect;
o has not been convicted of an offence and sentenced to imprisonment for a term of three years or longer;
o the person intends upon registration as a citizen to continue to permanently reside in Kenya or to maintain a close and continuing association with Kenya; and
o the person understands the rights and duties of a citizen
Here are are the requirements
• A printed online application form 15 (Print the form after completing your application)
• 2 passport size photographs
• Certificate of good conduct
• Copy of birth certificate
• Proof of residence in Kenya since birth
• A sworn affidavit of the continuous residence in Kenya
• Copy of the Police Clearance Certificate
• Copy of Checklist. click here to download
What are the requirements for the Renunciation of Kenyan Citizenship?
Section 19 (1) of the Kenya Citizenship and Immigration Act, 2011 provides :
• Where a Kenyan citizen by birth voluntarily makes a declaration of renunciation of Kenyan citizenship, in the prescribed manner, the Cabinet Secretary shall cause the declaration to be registered.
Here are the requirements
• A printed online application form 6 (Print the form after completing your application)
• 2 passport size photographs
• Original and copies of Kenyan passport and ID
• Copy of other country’s passport or proof of citizenship
• Copy of Checklist. click here to download
Immigration department in Kenya Contacts:
Directorate of Immigration and Registration of Persons Nyayo House 20th floor, Kenyatta Avenue P.O Box 30191-00100 Nairobi. Phone: +254-20-2222022, +254-20-2217544, +254-20-2218833 Email: infomirp@kenya.go.ke
Department of Immigration Services Nyayo House 9th floor, Kenyatta Avenue P.O Box 30191,00100 Nairobi. Phone: +254-20-2222022, +254-20-2217544, +254-20-2218833 Email: dis@immigration.go.ke
National Registration Bureau NSSF Building, Block B 8th Floor P.O Box 57007-00200 Nairobi. Tel: +254-20-2722526, +254-20-2720069 Email: director.nrb@kenya.go.ke Fax: 2716205
