Immigration Lawyers in Kenya: Navigating Immigration Laws and Processes.

Introduction

Kenyan immigration laws are quite complex and challenging. A foreigner seeking to travel to Kenya for business, ordinary visit, residency, or education often needs the guidance of an immigration lawyer to answer a few questions: What type of visa or permit should apply for, what are the requirements, what are the application costs including legal representation, and how long does it take?

At PM Kithuka & Co. Advocates, we provide excellent legal representation to all foreigners throughout the immigration process. Through our networks and vast experience, we ensure that our client’s immigration status in Kenya is regularized in line with Kenya immigration legislation.

Understanding Kenyan Immigration Law

Kenyan immigration law is governed by the Kenya Citizenship and Immigration Act, which outlines the legal procedures, requirements, rights, and responsibilities for foreigners seeking to enter and reside in Kenya. The Department of Immigration Services operates under this act, ensuring that all immigration activities are conducted in accordance with the law. Nairobi, being the capital city, serves as a major hub for immigration activities, making it a focal point for individuals and businesses navigating the complex immigration process. Understanding Kenyan immigration law is crucial for anyone looking to successfully manage their immigration status, whether for short-term visits or long-term residency.

Scope of our immigration law services

As the leading immigration lawyers in Kenya, We provide a wide range of immigration legal services, customized to meet the needs of our clients throughout the application process. Our clientele includes refugees and asylum seekers, persons travelling for business and leisure and companies. We the provide the following services:

Immigration Strategies Advisory - We advise on immigration strategies in line with Kenyan immigration legislation and regulations.

Work permits and residence permits advisory and application - we advise on the various work and residence permits (including permanent residence applications) available under Kenya Citizenship and Immigration Regulations , 2012 and provide assistance in the application process.

Citizenship status advisory and strategic litigation - Our lawyers advise clients on whether they qualify for citizenship status under the Kenya Citizenship and Immigration Act, 2011. We also filing strategic litigation cases on behalf of our clients on citizenship status determination.

Appeals and waivers - our lawyers have vast experience in representing clients in work permits cancellation or denial or cancellation, investigations on permits and permanent residence applications and immigration law litigation where necessary.

Visa applications - we advise our clients on visa applications and provide expert assistance in compiling all supporting documents and filing the application.

Legal representation during arrests and deportation - our expert lawyers provide top-notch immigration services to clients who face arrests and possible deportation and related aspects.

Refugee and asylum representation - Provide assistance to refugees and asylum seekers. our services include submission of asylum claims and representation during refugee status determination hearing.

Immigration Options

Kenya offers a variety of immigration options tailored to meet the needs of individuals and families. These options include pathways to citizenship and naturalization, work permits and visas, and provisions for those seeking asylum.

Citizenship and Naturalization

Citizenship and naturalization are two primary routes to obtaining Kenyan citizenship. Citizenship can be acquired through birth, descent, or registration, while naturalization is the process of becoming a citizen through legal residence and meeting specific requirements. The Kenya Citizenship and Immigration Act outlines the eligibility criteria and application process for both citizenship and naturalization. For instance, individuals may qualify for citizenship by birth if they were born in Kenya to Kenyan parents, or by descent if they have Kenyan ancestry. Naturalization, on the other hand, requires a period of legal residence in Kenya, along with other criteria such as good character and knowledge of the Swahili language.

Work Permits and Visas

For foreigners seeking to work in Kenya, obtaining the appropriate work permits and visas is essential. The Kenya Citizenship and Immigration Act mandates that employers secure work permits for their foreign employees, while individuals must apply for visas to enter and work in the country. There are various types of work permits and visas available, including temporary and permanent residence permits. Temporary permits are typically issued for specific job assignments or projects, while permanent residence permits are granted to individuals who meet certain long-term residency criteria. Understanding the specific requirements and application processes for these permits is crucial for compliance with Kenyan immigration laws.

Seeking Asylum in Kenya

Kenya is committed to upholding international laws regarding asylum seekers and refugees. Individuals seeking asylum in Kenya can apply through the United Nations High Commissioner for Refugees (UNHCR) or the Department of Immigration Services. The Refugees Act outlines the eligibility criteria and application process for seeking asylum in Kenya. Applicants must demonstrate a well-founded fear of persecution in their home country due to race, religion, nationality, membership in a particular social group, or political opinion. The process involves submitting an asylum claim and undergoing a refugee status determination hearing. Kenya’s commitment to protecting refugees and asylum seekers ensures that those in need of protection can find safety and support within its borders.

Why you should choose PM Kithuka & Co. Advocates for legal representation

We bought of vast and unique immigration law and services experience and networks. we are among the leading immigration law firms in Kenya. Our lawyers will assist you in all aspects of immigration services, including specialized services. If you are looking for temporary residence, visas, permanent residence permits or Kenyan citizenship, contact us today for discussion. We will address you legal needs timeously.

Contact Us

If you are considering travelling to Kenya for employment, investment, tourism, education, marriage or tourism, contact us today to discuss and help you navigate the complex immigration processes in Kenya.