What you need to know about living and moving to Kenya: country guide

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What you need to know about living and moving to Kenya: country guide

It is well known that many second-citizenship buyers favor visa-free access to the so-called "first world". Kenyan passports have nothing to boast of in this regard. Kenyan citizenship ranks 72nd in the world passport index.

But at the same time, Kenya is home to the first intelligent life forms on Earth, crossing the equator and meeting the friendly African tribes, and it's all doable in exotic Kenya. The state's scenic reserves are home to Africa's famous 'big five' animals, such as lions, leopards, rhinos, buffalo, and elephants.


What do I need to do to get citizenship?

Kenya can apply for permanent residency by:

1. Former Kenyan citizens - applicants who were citizens of Kenya at birth.

2. Legal residents of Kenya - applicants who have held a work permit for at least 7 years.

3. Children of Kenyan citizens - children of Kenyan citizens who were born outside the country and acquired foreign citizenship of the country of residence.

4. Spouses of Kenyan citizens - applicants who are spouses of Kenyan citizens and have been married for at least 3 years.




Naturalization as a pathway to citizenship

Conditions:

1. Age 21+;

2. An excellent reputation;

3. Have lived in Kenya for more than 12 months, and legally;

4. Have intentions to continue living in the country;

5. Good knowledge of the Kiswahili language.


Business

You can obtain Kenyan citizenship if you are an investor or a Kenyan businessman.

Documents needed:

  • Application form (completed in English);
  • Photo (recent, color, on white background, passport size);
  • Passport (it must be valid for more than three months on the date of registration). Note that the passport must have more than two blank pages;
  • A document confirming a flight reservation or a ticket with a specified date;
  • Power of attorney (handwritten) for the employee to collect the passport and decision from the embassy;
  • Invitation from a Kenyan company (choice: fax, scan, or original) on the inviting party's letterhead. Generally, there are no other special requirements for the letter. But it should indicate the following: address of residence, period of stay in this state, and that the company is ready to cover all necessary expenses during the trip. It is obligatory to have it notarized.
  • A document that confirms the availability of enough money for the period of stay in this state (it can be: a certificate from the place of employment about the business trip of a citizen).


Types of visas to Kenya:

- Business;

- Tourist;

- Student; Student;

- Work visas.

Special visas can be issued if you are in Kenya for more than 3 months or if you want to work or enter the country more than once. 

 

Important

It is customary to tip (in local currency) in Kenya - 1 dollar per suitcase on arrival and departure from the hotel, about 10% of the bill in a bar or restaurant, 2-3 dollars for a driver-guide who drives you on safari, ensures your safety and introduces you to wild animals. Keep in mind that the locals' earnings are very low, and tips tend to be the main item of income. Airport charges were until recently USD 40 on international flights and KSh 200 on domestic flights. Tropical malaria medication must be taken while in Kenya.


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