Get Your Kenya Dual Citizenship – Learn How to Apply
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Eligibility Overview
- By Birth: You are a Kenyan citizen if born in Kenya to at least one Kenyan parent.
- By Descent: Individuals born outside Kenya to at least one Kenyan parent are eligible for citizenship by descent.
- By Marriage : Foreign spouses of Kenyan citizens may apply for citizenship after 7 years of marriage and legal residence.
- By Naturalization: Foreign nationals can apply after 7 years of continuous lawful residence, language fluency, and integration.
- Special Exception – Dual Citizenship Allowed: Kenya allows dual citizenship, but citizens who acquire another nationality must declare it within 3 months or risk losing their Kenyan status.
Step-by-Step Process
- Determine your path: descent, marriage, or naturalization.
- Submit application to the Directorate of Immigration Services or Kenyan embassy abroad.
- Provide required documents and pass background and eligibility checks.
- Take the oath of allegiance and receive citizenship certificate.
- If acquiring a second nationality later, file a dual citizenship declaration within 3 months.
Benefits of Kenyan Citizenship
- Live, work, and own land in Kenya
- Access public education, healthcare, and government services
- Vote and run for public office
- Keep your other nationality legally (with declaration)
Frequently asked questions.
Does Kenya allow dual citizenship?
Yes. Kenya permits dual citizenship, but you must file a declaration with immigration authorities within 3 months of acquiring or holding another nationality.
Can I get Kenyan citizenship through a parent?
Yes. Citizenship by descent is available to those born abroad to at least one Kenyan parent. You must register with immigration or a consulate to claim it.
Is citizenship through marriage automatic?
No. Foreign spouses can apply for citizenship after 7 years of legal residence in Kenya while married, but it is not automatically granted.
Do I have to give up my other nationality?
No. Kenya allows you to keep your other nationality. However, you must officially declare your dual status or you may risk revocation of Kenyan citizenship.
How long must I live in Kenya to naturalize?
You need 7 years of continuous legal residence, knowledge of Swahili or English, and integration into the local community.
Do dual citizens pay taxes in both countries?
Kenya taxes income earned within its borders. If you live abroad and are not tax-resident in Kenya, you typically aren’t taxed on foreign income. Double taxation treaties may apply.