How to Apply for Kenyan Citizenship: Rules and Regulations

Kenya is a land of opportunity, and many people from all over the world are looking to call it home. If you are among them, then you will want to get citizenship. Here’s how to apply for Kenyan citizenship, what the rules and regulations are and what you need to do to make it happen.

Types of Citizenship in Kenya

There are three types of Citizenship in Kenya, as defined by the Constitution:

1. Citizenship by Birth: If you are born in Kenya, or born to a Kenyan parent, you are eligible for Kenyan citizenship.
2. Citizenship by Registration: This type of Citizenship applies to foreign nationals who have been accepted by the Kenyan government to live and work in the country.
3. Citizenship by Naturalization: This type of Citizenship applies to foreign nationals who have lived in Kenya for a certain period of time and meet certain criteria.

Rules and Regulations for Kenyan Citizenship

The rules and regulations for Kenyan Citizenship are strict and enforced. The Kenyan Constitution has laid down strict guidelines that an applicant must meet. Some of them include;

1. Age: The minimum age for Kenyan Citizenship is 18 years.
2. Residency: For Citizenship by Naturalization, the applicant must have lived in Kenya for at least seven years before submitting their application.
3. Good Conduct: An applicant must not have a criminal record or any other blemish on their record that could cause them to be denied citizenship. Conduct is assessed by the relevant authorities.
4. Language Proficiency: An applicant must be proficient in at least one national language i.e., English and Swahili.
5. Renunciation of Previous Citizenship: An applicant must renounce any previous citizenship before they can receive Kenyan citizenship.

Applying for Kenyan Citizenship

To apply for Kenyan Citizenship, an applicant must follow a series of steps:

1. Residency: The applicant must first establish a minimum period of residency in Kenya, as required for their category of citizenship.
2. Documentation: The applicant must provide all relevant documentation, including a passport, identity documents, and any other relevant documents required by the government.
3. Application: The applicant must complete the appropriate application forms and pay the requisite fees. The application is submitted to the relevant authority – either the Immigration Department or the Ministry of Interior.
4. Interview: An interview or interrogation must be conducted with the applicant to assess their suitability for Citizenship.
5. Approval: If the applicant meets all the requirements and is approved, they will be issued with a certificate of Citizenship.

Conclusion

Acquiring Kenyan Citizenship is a rigorous process, but it is possible for those who meet the requirements. It is important to note that Kenyan Citizenship has its benefits, including the ability to own property and vote in elections. By following the rules and regulations, you could become a proud Kenyan citizen in no time.