Kenyan Citizenship

To become a citizen of Kenya, it depends on your circumstances. There are several pathways available. Kenyan Citizenship can be acquired by birth, descent, registration, or naturalization.

Those born in Kenya after 1963 automatically qualify for citizenship unless their parents were foreign diplomats or members of foreign armed forces at the time of birth. Similarly, individuals born outside Kenya can claim citizenship by descent if at least one parent was a Kenyan citizen when they were born.

Foreigners who wish to become Kenyan citizens may do so through registration or naturalization. Citizenship by registration is available to individuals who have legally resided in Kenya for seven continuous years. Applicants must demonstrate good moral character, be proficient in English or Kiswahili, have a lawful source of income, and renounce any other citizenship if required by law. Spouses of Kenyan citizens are also eligible to apply for citizenship by registration after seven years of marriage and residence in Kenya, provided they meet the stipulated requirements.

Naturalization is another route, though it is granted at the discretion of the Kenyan government. Applicants must have lived in Kenya for an extended period, typically seven years, and must demonstrate good character, the ability to contribute to Kenya's economic or social development, and proficiency in English or Kiswahili.

Applications for citizenship are handled by the Directorate of Immigration Services and involve submitting the required documentation, attending interviews, and obtaining approvals from relevant authorities.