Discover the essential steps to secure Kenyan citizenship through lawful residency in this comprehensive guide by Mr. Festus, Managing Partner of F.M. Muteti & Company Advocates. Learn about the legal requirements, application processes, and expert tips to successfully navigate your journey to becoming a Kenyan citizen.
Introduction
Besides Kenya being a world renown tourist destination due to its rich culture, wildlife heritage, pristine beaches and savanna and mountain ranges, tropical climate and location, it is fast becoming a residential destination due to its political stability, world class education, dynamic business opportunities including agriculture, information and technology, engineering and professional services.
In recognition and appreciation of Kenya’s existing demand and potential for attracting long term residency, F.M. Muteti & Co. Advocates has a vibrant Immigration Services Department in which we act for both local and international corporate and individual Clients. One of the Immigration services we offer is advisory and representation to Clients who are residing in Kenya and are desirous of acquiring Kenyan citizenship.
The Constitution of Kenya and the Kenya Citizenship & Immigration Act provides for the requirements and conditions that must be met by an individual before he is eligible for citizenship. Specifically, Section 13 of the Kenya Citizenship and Immigration Act provides that an individual MUST have lawfully resided in Kenya for at least seven (7) years immediately preceding the application for citizenship by registration. Further, the applicant must have been resident in Kenya throughout the twelve (12) months preceding the application. This entails maintaining a valid pass or permit during this period.
Step-by-Step: Gaining Kenyan Citizenship via Lawful Residency
As such, based on the provisions of the Citizenship & Immigration Act, to be eligible for Kenyan citizenship by lawful residence, an applicant must also meet the following criteria:
- Knowledge of Kenya: The applicant should possess and demonstrate adequate knowledge about Kenya, including its rights and the duties and duties of a Kenyan citizen. In addition, the applicant must be able to understand and speak Kiswahili or another local language.
- Criminal record: The applicant must not have been convicted of an offence punishable by imprisonment or more.
- Intent to reside and national contributions: The applicant must demonstrate an intention to continue residing in Kenya. The applicant must also show that they have made a substantial contribution to the development and/or progress of any sector or industry within Kenya
- Financial stability: The applicant must not have been adjudged bankrupt.
To ascertain the above requirements, the following are the necessary documents and information that are required to make an application for citizenship on account of lawful residence:-
- A duly filled application form;
- Two passport size photographs of the applicant;
- A filled questionnaire;
- Copies of the applicant’s academic certificates;
- A copy of the applicant’s passport and proof of residence which is basically documentation from the applicant’s residential address in Kenya
- Copies of all residency permits held by the applicant in the preceding 7 years;
- Police Clearance Certificate;
- A letter by the applicant detailing their contribution towards national development;
- A copy of the applicant’s certificate of marriage (if married);
- Details of the applicant’s children and their certificates of birth;
- A letter of recommendation from an individual or organization attesting to the applicant’s contribution towards national development;
- A letter of recommendation from previous or current employer here in Kenya;
- The applicant’s certified personal bank account statement; and
- 3 names of referees well known to the applicant together with copies of their National IDs and KRA Pin Certificates and specific physical addresses.
The best immigration lawyers in Kenya at F.M. Muteti & Co. Advocates are ready and wiling to assist you in all immigration services including acquiring Kenyan citizenship in the manner prescribed above. Contact us today to schedule a consultation and learn how we can support you, your company, business or organization in matters immigration law.
Disclaimer: The information provided in this article is provided for information purposes only and does not constitute a legal advisory. We advise prospective Clients to get in touch with us for more comprehensive and contextualized legal advice.
