Immigration Passes Issued in Kenya

Immigration Passes in Kenya: A Detailed Guide

Immigration passes in Kenya are permits issued by the Directorate of Immigration Services to individuals who seek temporary residency or specific privileges to remain in the country. These passes cater to various needs, from dependents of Kenyan residents to students, interns, and visitors. Below is a breakdown of key immigration passes in Kenya and their requirements.

1. Dependant’s Pass

A Dependant’s Pass is granted to individuals whose spouse, parent, or guardian is lawfully entitled to enter Kenya. This pass may also be issued to those who are disabled or incapacitated and rely on someone else for support.

Who qualifies?

• Dependants of Kenyan citizens
• Dependants of work permit holders, exempted persons, and permanent residents

Exempted Persons:

• Accredited representatives and envoys to Kenya
• Diplomatic staff and their dependants
• Domestic staff of diplomatic personnel
• Persons exempted by the Cabinet Secretary

Documents Required:

• Duly filled application form (Form 28)
• Detailed cover letter addressed to the Director of Immigration Services
• Copy of valid national passport (bio-data page)
• Current immigration status of both applicant and dependant
• Two recent passport-sized photos
• Proof of relationship and financial support
• Sworn affidavit of incapacity, if applicable
• Valid work permit (if held by the sponsor)
• Police clearance certificate

Nigerian nationals must provide an original National Drug Law Enforcement Agency (NDLEA) clearance certificate.

2. Special Pass

This temporary pass allows individuals to stay in Kenya for a limited period, often for applying for a permit, conducting short-term business, or awaiting permit processing.

Who qualifies?

• Individuals temporarily conducting business or awaiting a decision on their permit application

Documents Required:

• Completed application form (Form 32)
• Cover letter from applicant or organization
• Two recent passport-sized photos
• Copy of valid passport
• Proof of immigration status
• Registration certificate of the organization
• Academic and professional certificates (if applicable)
• Any previous permits or passes

Professionals may need clearance from relevant regulatory bodies (e.g., doctors require clearance from the Medical and Dentist Board).

3. Student’s Pass

The Student’s Pass is issued to foreign students who have been accepted into an educational or training institution in Kenya.

Documents Required:

• Application form (Form 30) signed by the institution
• Cover letter from the institution
• Copy of valid passport
• Immigration status of the student (if already in Kenya)
• Two recent passport-sized photos
• Academic certificates for tertiary institution applicants
• Proof of sponsorship or financial support
• Consent letter from parents (for minors)
• Birth certificate (for minors)
• Institution’s registration certificate
• Police clearance certificate

4. Internship or Research Pass

This pass is for individuals undertaking internships or research in accredited Kenyan institutions for up to 12 months.

Documents Required:

• Completed application form (Form 30)
• Cover letter from the institution specifying the internship or research topic
• Copy of valid passport
• Immigration status (if already in Kenya)
• Two passport-sized photos
• Certified academic certificates and CV
• Research permit (if applicable)
• Police clearance certificate

5. Visitor’s Pass

A Visitor’s Pass is issued to individuals entering Kenya for a short-term visit, holiday, or other approved temporary purposes. The maximum validity is six months.

6. Re-Entry Pass

This pass allows a holder of a dependant’s pass to temporarily leave Kenya and return. The re-entry pass is valid for the expected period of absence, up to a maximum of two years.

7. Transit Pass

The Transit Pass permits entry into Kenya to travel to a destination outside the country. This pass is valid for up to three days.

8. Prohibited Immigrants or Inadmissible Persons Pass

This pass allows individuals classified as prohibited immigrants or inadmissible persons to enter or remain temporarily in Kenya. Prohibited immigrants are non-citizens with criminal records or suspected criminal activity, as outlined in Section 33 of the Act. Inadmissible persons include those incapable of supporting themselves, insolvent individuals, or rejected asylum seekers.

Each immigration pass in Kenya has specific eligibility criteria and requirements, aimed at facilitating short- to medium-term stays in the country. Whether you are a student, intern, or visitor, understanding these passes ensures a smoother legal process when entering or remaining in Kenya.

Please contact us on info@swkadvocates.com for assistance with immigration passes in Kenya.