Permanent Residence

Eligibility for Permanent Residence

Category A: Ex-Citizens of Kenya

Individuals who were born as Kenyan citizens but lost or renounced their citizenship. Those who cannot hold dual citizenship due to restrictions from their current country. Their children and spouses are also eligible.

Category C: Children of Kenyan Citizens

Children born outside Kenya to Kenyan citizens but who have acquired foreign citizenship.

Required Documents

Permanent Residence Requirements Spouses: Marriage certificate, dependent pass, or work permit. Children: Birth certificates of both the child and parents. Rights of Permanent Residents Enter, remain, and move freely within Kenya. Work, own property, and attend educational facilities. Access social services. Comply with residency rules and regulations. Issuance of a permanent residence certificate. Loss of Permanent Residence Acquiring Kenyan citizenship. Failing to comply with residency obligations. Removal order issued. Voluntary relinquishment of PR status. Fraudulent marriage to a Kenyan citizen.

Category B: Lawful Residents of Kenya

Applicants who have held work permits for at least 7 years and resided in Kenya continuously for 3 years immediately before applying for PR. Their children and spouses are eligible as well.

Category D: Spouses of Kenyan Citizens

Spouses of Kenyan citizens who have been married for at least 3 years. Proof of marriage and family life is required, and a joint affidavit may be needed if the marriage wasn’t solemnized in Kenya. Required Documents: Spouses: Marriage certificate, dependent pass, or work permit. Children: Birth certificates of both the child and parents. Rights of Permanent Residents:

Summary

The Permanent Residence framework in Kenya allows various categories of individuals to apply for long-term residency, including former citizens, lawful residents, spouses, and children of Kenyan citizens. PR holders have many rights, such as the ability to work and own property, but must comply with residency obligations. PR status can be revoked under certain conditions, including acquiring citizenship or violating residency regulations.