Guide to Residency in Kenya

Obtaining a residency visa in Kenya is not always easy, but our Guide to Residency in Kenya gives newcomers an overview of the steps involved and advice from others who have already navigated the process.

Obtaining Residency Status in Kenya

Here are the detailed steps to help a foreigner obtain residency status in Kenya:

• Understand the Types of Residency Permits
  • Class A: Income from sources other than employment
  • Class B: Investor in Agriculture
  • Class D: Employee of an organization registered in Kenya
  • Class G: Investor in specific trade or business
  • Class I: Member of a licensed missionary society
  • Class K: Ordinary resident
  • Class M: Refugee
• Check Eligibility and Requirements
  • Visit the official website of the Department of Immigration Services: immigration.ecitizen.go.ke
  • Select the type of residency permit that suits your purpose
  • Review the specific requirements and documents needed
• Register on eCitizen Portal
  • Go to the eCitizen portal: www.ecitizen.go.ke
  • Click on "Register" and follow the steps to create an account
  • Verify your account through the link sent to your email
• Apply for a Tax Number (PIN)
  • Visit the Kenya Revenue Authority (KRA) website: www.kra.go.ke
  • Click on "Services" and then "Individual PIN Registration"
  • Fill in the required details and submit the application
• Apply for the Residency Permit
  • Log in to your eCitizen account
  • Select "Department of Immigration Services"
  • Click on "Apply for a service" and select the desired residency permit
  • Fill in the application form and upload the required documents
  • Pay the application fee using the available payment methods
  • Submit the application and print the acknowledgment receipt
• Wait for Approval
  • You will receive notifications on the progress of your application through your eCitizen account
  • Once approved, you will be notified to pay the permit issuance fee
• Download and Print the Residency Permit
  • After paying the issuance fee, log in to your eCitizen account
  • Navigate to your application and download the permit
  • Print the permit and keep it safe for future reference
• Register as an Alien
  • Within 90 days of obtaining the residency permit, register as an alien at the Department of Immigration Services
  • Carry the original residency permit, valid passport, and two passport-sized photos for the registration process

It is essential to follow these steps carefully and ensure that you have all the required documents. If you encounter any challenges, consider seeking professional assistance or contacting the Department of Immigration Services for further guidance.

What tips do expats have about residency and visas in Kenya?

"In order to visit Kenya, foreign nationals must obtain a visa prior to arrival. The process of applying for a visa involves submitting an application form, a valid passport, two passport-sized photographs, and the applicable visa fee. Depending on the purpose of the visit, additional documents may be required. In order to obtain residency in Kenya, foreign nationals must submit an application form, a valid passport, two passport-sized photographs, and the applicable fee. They must also provide proof of employment, proof of sufficient funds, and a valid residence permit. Depending on the purpose of the residency, additional documents may be required," commented one member living in Kenya.