MasiboLaw

By Meshack Masibo and Joy Kawira

Wildlife, hospitality and warm and welcoming people are some of the things that make Kenya one of the top 5 travel destinations in Africa.  Additionally, the World Bank has projected an economic growth of  5.2% on average in Kenya in the years 2024-26. This makes Kenya a lucrative destination for people from all over the world to visit, work in and ultimately settle.

These factors make  Kenya a perfect destination for those looking to permanently relocate to Africa—whether for investment, residence, work, or other long-term purposes. One way to secure the ability to live in Kenya legally without the hassle of constantly renewing a visa or permit is by obtaining permanent residency.

You can apply for permanent residence in several ways, one is where you apply directly where you have already been living in Kenya lawfully for more than 7 years. In this case, you should also have to have stayed in Kenya for 3 years consecutively.

What documents will you need?

1. The online application is made on the EFNS Portal, where you can printout forms, and make the online payment the processing fee of 10,000 KES.
2. 2 current passport-size photos
3. Copies of all permits issued in Kenya
4. Copy of valid passport
5. Good conduct certificate
6. Copy of valid tax compliance certificate
7. Copy of valid foreigner certificate (Alien card)
8. Application letter by the applicant
9. Issuance fee of kshs 500,000

Another way to apply is through your Kenyan spouse. This applies to those married to a Kenya Citizen for a period exceeding three years and the marriage is still valid.

What documents will you need?

1. The online application is made on the EFNS Portal, where you can printout forms, and make the online payment the processing fee of 5,000 KES
2. 2 current passport-size photos
3. Copies of all permits or dependent passes issued in Kenya.
4. Copy of valid passports of the applicant and Kenyan spouse
5. Copy of marriage certificate
6. Copy of joint affidavit if marriage solemnized out of Kenya
7. Good conduct certificate
8. Copy of valid tax compliance certificate
9. Copy of valid foreigner certificate (Alien card)
10. Application letter by the spouse
11. Issuance fee of 50,000 KES

In conclusion, there are several ways to get permanent residence. Still, if you are not the child of a Kenyan citizen or ex-Kenyan, you will either have to apply directly or through your spouse. Applying through your spouse is cheaper but is not appropriate for those who are not legally married. The path you choose will depend on your specific situation.

The writers are lawyers based in Nairobi, Kenya, you can contact them through info@masibolaw.co.ke