Citizenship
Migrants
For people who voluntarily migrated to Kenya before 12 December 1963 and have lived here continuously since.
Who it is for
Under section 16 of the Kenya Citizenship and Immigration Act, 2011, a person who voluntarily migrated into Kenya before 12 December 1963 and has lived in Kenya continuously is deemed to have been lawfully resident, and may apply to be registered as a citizen if they:
- do not hold a passport or identification document of any other country
- have adequate knowledge of Kiswahili or a local dialect
- have not been convicted of an offence and sentenced to imprisonment for three years or longer
- intend, once registered, to continue to live permanently in Kenya or to maintain a close and continuing association with Kenya
- understand the rights and duties of a citizen
What you need
Have these ready before you apply. Incomplete applications are not accepted.
-
Printed online application Form 14, printed after you complete your application
-
Two passport-size photographs
-
Certificate of good conduct
-
Sworn affidavit that you do not hold a passport or identification document of any other country
-
Proof of residence in Kenya since 12 December 1963
-
A sworn affidavit of continuous residence in Kenya
-
Copy of your police clearance certificate
Fees
| Fee | Amount | When it is charged |
|---|---|---|
| Application fee Once your application is processed | KES 20,000 | Once your application is processed |
| Issuance fee When your application is approved | KES 10,000 | When your application is approved |
| Storage charge If a certificate is not collected within 3 months of notification | KES 2,000 a month | If a certificate is not collected within 3 months of notification |
| Duplicate certificate For a duplicate citizenship certificate | KES 5,000 | For a duplicate citizenship certificate |
Fees are set by the Department and can change: the amount on your invoice is the one that applies. Fees are non-refundable once paid.
How to apply
-
Step 1: Sign in with eCitizen
Use your Government of Kenya eCitizen account. If you do not have one yet, registration is free.
Create an eCitizen account -
Step 2: Complete the application
Fill in Form 14 online, for yourself or on behalf of someone else, and print it when you finish.
-
Step 3: Pay once it is processed
An invoice is raised once your application has been processed. Pay it through eCitizen by M-PESA, Airtel Money or card.
-
Step 4: Present your documents
Take your printed application and the documents listed above to the immigration office named under “Good to know”.
-
Step 5: Follow your application
You receive email and account notifications as your application moves through each stage.
Good to know
- Incomplete applications will not be accepted.
- The registration fee is non-refundable.
- Printed applications must be presented at Immigration headquarters.