A PRACTICAL LEGAL GUIDE FOR LONG TERM RESIDENTS SEEKING CITIZENSHIP
INTRODUCTION
Citizenship extends beyond legal status; it constitutes formal recognition of belonging, loyalty, and participation within a nation. In Kenya, citizenship may be acquired by birth, registration, or naturalization. Citizenship by naturalization is particularly significant as it provides long-term foreign residents the
opportunity to become citizens of Kenya upon demonstrating contributions to national development.
However, while the law provides this opportunity, the process itself is detailed, discretionary, and often misunderstood. Applications may take time, require extensive documentation, and involve rigorous background checks.
The Legal Foundation of Citizenship by Naturalization Constitutional Basis Citizenship in Kenya is anchored in Chapter 3 of the Constitution of Kenya 2010. Article 15(2) of the Constitution provides that: A person who has been lawfully resident in Kenya for a continuous period of at least seven years, and who satisfies the
conditions prescribed by an Act of Parliament, may apply to be registered as a citizen.
Statutory Framework The primary legislation governing naturalization is the Kenya Citizenship and Immigration Act, No. 12 of 2011. Naturalization, therefore, is a formal application assessed by the state, guided
by statutory criteria and exercised at the discretion of the Cabinet Secretary. Under Section 13(1) of the Act, an
applicant must satisfy several cumulative conditions:
1. Lives in Kenya continuously for 7 years;
2. Be a resident with a valid permit or get an exemption from the Cabinet Secretary;
3. Has resided in Kenya for 12 months before making the application;
4. Has adequate knowledge of Kenya;
5. Speak Kiswahili or a local dialect;
6. Has not been criminally convicted; and
7. The Cabinet Secretary has to be satisfied that the applicant will reside in Kenya after the registration.
Requirements process
1. Duly completed application Form (10) attested to by a Commissioner for Oaths. This form is available on the eFNS portal.
2. Duly filled Questionnaire.
3. Passport size photographs.
4. Copies of Permits held for the last 7 years or the number of years the applicant has resided in Kenya.
5. Original certificate of good conduct/Police Clearance Certificate.
6. Letter of proof of contribution made in national development.
7. Personal Bank statement.
8. Passport Copy.
9. Application processing Fee – Kshs. 20,000/=.
Important Note: Section 13(2) of the Kenya Citizenship and Immigration Act provides that the Cabinet Secretary cannot register an applicant if the applicant’s country is at war with Kenya at the date of making the
application.
The Process of Naturalization
Step 1: Create an Account
This step involves creating an account
with the Kenyan electronic Foreign
Nationals Services (eFNS) portal which is
under the Department of Immigration
Services or an e-citizen account.
Step 2: Log-in
Log into the eFNS account and select the “Apply now” link
Step3: Application
Click on the “Submit Applications” tab and select the Lawful Residence tab. After the application is processed, an invoice will be generated which can be seen by clicking on “Dashboard” then “Payments” Tab. You shall receive automatic notifications via email and on your online account about the progress of your application.
Step 4: Background checks
Under this process, the department of immigration conducts criminal background, immigration history and
any security.
Step 5: Interview and Evaluation
Applicants are invited for interviews where they are tested on their knowledge about Kenya and the language.
Step 6: Decision by the Cabinet
Secretary The Cabinet Secretary exercises discretion to approve or reject the application.
Step 7: Oath of Allegiance
Upon approval, the applicant takes the oath of allegiance.
Step 8: Issuance of Certificate of Naturalization
A Certificate of Naturalization is issued, officially conferring Kenyan citizenship.
Conclusion
Citizenship by naturalization in Kenya is a carefully regulated process grounded in constitutional and statutory law. By requiring lawful residence, good character, cultural integration, and allegiance to the Republic, the law
ensures that naturalized citizens are genuinely committed to Kenya’s values and future. The process of naturalization is extremely thorough however, successful applicants are given full citizenship rights and responsibilities.
Our Team at ESK Advocates LLP is equipped with the knowledge and extensive network to assist foreign clients in the process of acquiring Kenyan citizenship through naturalization; from filling out the relevant forms,
procuring the requisite documents to interview preparation. Visit our office or call the number below for further assistance. Article by : Joyce Nduta Holding-Over Associate
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