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Republic of Kenya Department of Immigration Services

Department of Immigration Services eFNS Foreign Nationals Services
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Citizenship

Stateless persons

For people with no enforceable claim to any citizenship who have lived in Kenya continuously since 12 December 1963.

Form 13 Invoice after processing
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Who it is for

Under section 15 of the Kenya Citizenship and Immigration Act, 2011, a person who has no enforceable claim to the citizenship of any recognised state and has lived in Kenya continuously since 12 December 1963 is deemed to have been lawfully resident, and may apply to be registered as a citizen if they:

  • 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 13, printed after you complete your application

  • Two passport-size photographs

  • Certificate of good conduct

  • 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

  1. 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

  2. Step 2: Complete the application

    Fill in Form 13 online, for yourself or on behalf of someone else, and print it when you finish.

  3. 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.

  4. Step 4: Present your documents

    Take your printed application and the documents listed above to the immigration office named under “Good to know”.

  5. 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.