1. What countries offer citizenship for Kenya passport holders by investment programs?
There are several countries that offer citizenship or residency by investment programs for Kenyan passport holders. These include:1. St. Kitts and Nevis
2. Vanuatu
3. Dominica
4. Antigua and Barbuda
5. Grenada
6. Turkey
7. Montenegro
8. Moldova
9. Bulgaria (with accelerated citizenship option)
10. Cyprus (with investment in real estate option)
2. Can dual citizenship be obtained in Kenya?
Yes, dual citizenship is allowed in Kenya. The Kenyan constitution provides for the possibility for individuals to hold multiple citizenships.3. How can one obtain dual citizenship in Kenya?
To obtain dual citizenship in Kenya, a person must first have a valid Kenyan passport or identification document. They must also meet the requirements set out in the Kenya Citizenship and Immigration Act, such as:
– Being over 18 years of age
– Being of sound mind
– Not being declared bankrupt
– Having resided in Kenya for at least seven years preceding the application (or shorter periods if married to a citizen or parent/child of a citizen)
– Taking an oath of allegiance to Kenya
Additionally, one must renounce any other foreign citizenship that they may hold. The process of obtaining dual citizenship can be initiated by applying at any Kenyan embassy, high commission, or consulate abroad.
4. Can a non-Kenyan become a citizen through marriage?
Yes, a non-Kenyan can acquire Kenyan citizenship through marriage to a Kenyan citizen. The Citizenship and Immigration Act recognizes two types of marriages for this purpose: customary marriages (recognized under customary law) and statutory marriages (recognized under statute law). In both cases, the non-Kenyan spouse must have been married to their Kenyan partner for at least three years before applying for citizenship.
5. Can foreigners own property in Kenya?
Foreigners are legally allowed to own property in Kenya. However, there are restrictions on land ownership for individuals who are not citizens or permanent residents of Kenya.
According to the Land Control Act and the Constitution of Kenya 2010, non-citizens can only own land on leasehold basis for a maximum period of 99 years. This type of ownership requires permission from relevant government authorities before it can be transferred or sold.
Foreigners with permanent residency status or those married to Kenyan citizens are exempt from these restrictions and can own land without any limitations. It is important for foreigners to consult with a lawyer before purchasing property in Kenya to ensure compliance with the relevant laws and regulations.
3. How long does it take to obtain a second passport in Kenya?
Unfortunately, Kenya does not offer a second passport program. One can only obtain one Kenyan passport at a time. If you lose your current passport or need to renew it, it typically takes 10 working days to obtain a new one.
4. Are there any language or residency requirements for obtaining a second passport in Kenya?
Yes, there are language and residency requirements for obtaining a second passport in Kenya.According to the Kenyan Citizenship and Immigration Act, a person must have been a resident of Kenya for at least seven years before they can be eligible for citizenship. This period is reduced to two years for spouses of Kenyan citizens.
Additionally, the applicant must demonstrate an ability to speak and understand Swahili or any other local language used in Kenya. However, this requirement may be waived if the Minister responsible for immigration finds that there are enough exceptional circumstances justifying it.
Furthermore, applicants must also demonstrate an understanding of the responsibilities and privileges of being a Kenyan citizen and have no criminal record in their country of origin or any other country.
The language and residency requirements may be waived under certain circumstances, such as if the applicant has made significant economic investments in Kenya or has provided exceptional services to the country. These waivers are subject to the discretion of the Minister responsible for immigration.
Overall, language proficiency and residency in Kenya play important roles in obtaining a second passport in Kenya. It is advisable to consult with a lawyer or immigration specialist to fully understand all requirements and procedures for obtaining a second passport in Kenya.
5. What is the cost of obtaining a second passport in Kenya?
The cost of obtaining a second passport in Kenya will depend on various factors such as processing fees, application fees, and any additional services or documents required. Generally, the cost can range from about $100 to $200 for a standard passport, with expedited services costing extra. Additionally, dual citizens may be subject to other fees and requirements depending on their country of citizenship. It is recommended to contact the Kenyan embassy or consulate in your country for more specific information on costs.
6. Can spouses and children also obtain a second passport through citizenship by investment in Kenya?
Yes, spouses and dependent children under the age of 18 are eligible to apply for citizenship by investment in Kenya if they meet all the requirements and fulfill the necessary financial obligations. However, they must be included in the main applicant’s investment and application process.
7. Does Kenya allow for visa-free travel to popular destinations with a second passport?
Yes, Kenya allows dual citizenship and therefore allows for visa-free travel to certain destinations with a second passport. Citizens of Kenya can hold more than one passport and can use either one to enter other countries that recognize dual citizenship, such as the United States, Canada, and most European countries. However, citizens should always check the entry requirements of their destination country before traveling with a second passport.
8. How does the taxation system work for citizens with two passports in Kenya?
In Kenya, taxation is based on residency rather than citizenship. This means that individuals who are considered to be tax residents of Kenya are subject to income tax on their worldwide income, regardless of their citizenship.
If a person holds two passports and is a tax resident of Kenya, they will be subject to the same tax laws and rates as any other Kenyan resident. This includes paying taxes on all income earned both within Kenya and abroad.
However, if a person is not a tax resident of Kenya but has one of their passports from the country, they may still be liable for certain taxes on income earned in Kenya. Non-residents are only taxed on their Kenyan sourced income, which includes employment income, business profits, rental income, and capital gains from the sale or transfer of property located in the country.
It is important for individuals with two passports in Kenya to consult with a tax professional to determine their exact tax obligations and ensure compliance with the country’s tax laws.
9. Are there any restrictions on the types of investments that can lead to citizenship in Kenya?
Yes, there are restrictions on the types of investments that can lead to citizenship in Kenya. According to the Kenyan Citizenship and Immigration Act of 2011, a foreigner may obtain citizenship by investment if they make a significant economic contribution to the country. This can be done through one of the following options:
1. Investing at least $100,000 in an agricultural enterprise or manufacturing industry.
2. Investing at least $200,000 in a property or real estate development project.
3. Creating employment for at least 50 Kenyan citizens.
4. Making a substantial financial investment as determined by the Cabinet Secretary responsible for immigration.
Additionally, the Act specifies that any investment made must be legal and not involve activities such as gambling, prostitution, illegal mining or trafficking of drugs or persons.
Furthermore, applicants for citizenship through investment must also meet other requirements such as having a clean criminal record and demonstrating sufficient knowledge of the Swahili language and Kenya’s culture and customs.
10. Can individuals apply for a second passport without renouncing their current citizenship status in Kenya?
No, individuals cannot apply for a second passport without renouncing their current citizenship status in Kenya. According to the Kenyan Constitution, dual citizenship is not recognized and those who acquire another citizenship automatically lose their Kenyan citizenship. Thus, one must renounce their current Kenyan citizenship in order to obtain a second passport from another country.
11. Are citizens of certain countries restricted from applying for a second passport in Kenya?
No, there are no restrictions on citizens of specific countries from applying for a second passport in Kenya. However, all applicants must meet the eligibility criteria and submission requirements set by the Kenyan government.
12. Are there any additional benefits to holding a second passport from Kenya, such as business opportunities or access to education and healthcare systems?
Yes, there are some additional benefits to holding a second passport from Kenya:
1) Ease of travel: With a Kenyan passport, you can travel visa-free or obtain a visa on arrival to many countries, including most African and Caribbean nations.
2) Investment opportunities: Holding a Kenyan passport can open up new investment opportunities in the country, as dual citizens may have more access to certain industries or sectors.
3) Access to education: Dual citizens may also have access to educational opportunities in both their home country and Kenya, which can broaden their knowledge and skills.
4) Healthcare privileges: As a dual citizen with a Kenyan passport, you can enjoy the benefits of both healthcare systems. This includes access to medical facilities and specialized treatments.
5) Business opportunities: Holding dual citizenship can facilitate business partnerships and collaborations between Kenya and your other home country. It also allows for easier establishment of businesses in both countries.
6) Property ownership: Dual citizenship allows individuals to own property in Kenya without any restrictions or additional taxes that may apply to foreign investors.
13. Is there an age limit for obtaining a second passport through citizenship by investment in Kenya?
There is no specific age limit for obtaining a second passport through citizenship by investment in Kenya. However, applicants must be over 18 years old and in good health. Individuals under the age of 18 may be considered for citizenship by investment with special approval from the Cabinet Secretary in charge of immigration.
14. How can I start the process of obtaining a second passport from Kenya?
There is no specific process for obtaining a second passport from Kenya. However, individuals can apply for a second passport at the Immigration Department in Kenya by submitting an application form, supporting documents such as proof of citizenship and reason for needing a second passport (e.g. frequent international travel), and paying the required fees.
1. Gather Required Documents: The first step to obtaining a second passport from Kenya is to gather all the necessary documents. This includes your current valid passport, birth certificate, national identity card, two recent passport-size photos, proof of citizenship such as National Identity Card or Birth Certificate among others.
2. Obtain Application Form: Once you have gathered all the required documents, you will need to obtain an application form from the immigration office in Kenya or download it from their official website.
3. Fill out the Application Form: Fill out the application form accurately and legibly with all relevant information required.
4. Attach Supporting Documents: You will need to attach all the supporting documents mentioned above along with your application form.
5. Pay Fees: There are different fees for processing a second passport depending on various factors such as urgency and validity period. Make sure to pay the appropriate fee according to your needs.
6. Submit Your Application: After completing these steps, you can submit your completed application form and supporting documents at the immigration office or mail it in if applying from abroad.
7. Wait for Processing: The processing time for a second passport may vary but generally takes 6-12 weeks after submitting your application.
8. Collect Your Second Passport: Once your application has been approved, you will be notified to collect your new second passport either personally or through a designated representative at the immigration office.
It is important to note that each case may be different and additional documentation may be required depending on individual circumstances or special cases. It is recommended to consult with an immigration lawyer or contact the relevant authorities at the immigration department for more information and assistance in the application process.
15. Can naturalized citizens also apply for a second passport in Kenya?
Yes, naturalized citizens can also apply for a second passport in Kenya. The process and requirements may vary slightly from those for citizens by birth, but naturalized citizens are entitled to the same rights and privileges as other citizens.
16. Is proof of financial stability required when applying for a residency and potential citizenship through an investor program in Kenya?
Yes, proof of financial stability is usually required when applying for residency and potential citizenship through an investor program in Kenya. This can include a minimum investment amount, demonstrating the source of funds for the investment, providing bank statements or other financial documents, and possibly showing proof of additional income or assets. These requirements may vary depending on the specific investor program being applied to.
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