How to Obtain Kenyan Citizenship: A complete Guide
Obtaining Kenyan citizenship involves meeting specific eligibility criteria and following a formal application process. Here’s a complete guide to help you understand the steps:
Eligibility for Kenyan Citizenship
Kenyan citizenship can be acquired in the following ways:
- By Birth
- If you were born in Kenya before or after the promulgation of the 2010 Constitution and one of your parents was a Kenyan citizen at the time of your birth, you are automatically a Kenyan citizen.
- By Descent
- If you were born outside Kenya and one of your parents was a Kenyan citizen by birth, you are eligible for citizenship by descent.
- By Registration (Naturalization)
Kenyan citizenship by registration can be granted to:- Foreign nationals who have lived in Kenya lawfully for at least 7 years.
- Spouses of Kenyan citizens who have been married for at least 7 years and meet specific conditions.
- Stateless persons, children, or adults who meet criteria outlined in Kenyan law.
- By Dual Citizenship
- Kenya permits dual citizenship. Kenyan citizens who hold another nationality must declare their status.
Requirements for Application
Depending on the mode of citizenship, you’ll need the following documents:
General Requirements
- A completed application form (e.g., Form 8, Form 9, or Form 13 depending on your case).
- A certified copy of your current passport or identification.
- Proof of lawful residence or stay in Kenya (work permits, residency permits, etc.).
- Birth certificate or proof of ancestry (if applicable).
- Police clearance certificates from Kenya and your home country.
- Marriage certificate (for spousal applications).
- Two passport-sized photographs.
Application Process
Step 1: Complete the Application Form
Visit the Kenyan Department of Immigration Services website or the relevant embassy/consulate if applying from abroad. Choose the correct form depending on the type of citizenship you’re applying for.
Step 2: Gather and Authenticate Documents
Ensure all required documents are certified and translated into English or Kiswahili if in another language.
Step 3: Submit the Application
- Submit the completed form and required documents to:
- The Department of Immigration Services (in Kenya).
- The Kenyan embassy/consulate in your country (if applying abroad).
- Pay the applicable fees (which vary depending on the type of citizenship).
Step 4: Attend an Interview (if required)
In some cases, you may need to attend an interview to verify your eligibility and intent to become a Kenyan citizen.
Step 5: Wait for Approval
The processing time for citizenship applications can vary. You will be notified of the outcome by the Department of Immigration Services or the Kenyan embassy/consulate.
Step 6: Take the Oath of Allegiance
Once approved, you will be required to take an oath of allegiance to the Republic of Kenya.
Special Considerations
- Children and Stateless Persons: Kenya has provisions to grant citizenship to stateless persons and children found in Kenya under certain conditions.
- Loss and Reinstatement of Citizenship: If you previously lost Kenyan citizenship (e.g., before dual citizenship was permitted), you can apply for reinstatement under Article 15 of the Kenyan Constitution.
Key Contacts
- Department of Immigration Services, Kenya
Website: immigration.go.ke
Phone: +254 (0)20 222 2022 - Kenyan Embassies/Consulates Worldwide
Check with your local Kenyan diplomatic mission for assistance.