Government to speed up dual citizenship applications for Kenyans abroad

Immigration and Citizen Services PS Julius Bitok addressing the media in Nairobi. [Denis Kibuchi, Standard]

The government has pledged to expedite dual citizenship applications for Kenyans in the diaspora, who were required to renounce their citizenship before the promulgation of the 2010 Constitution.

Immigration Principal Secretary Julius Bitok said the new policy aims to encourage Kenyans who moved abroad and acquired other nationalities to invest more in their home country.

Speaking at the COMESA grounds at the Kenyatta International Convention Centre (KICC) in Nairobi during this year’s International Migrants Day walk, Bitok said that the initiative would enable Kenyans abroad to utilize constitutional provisions on dual nationality while strengthening their ties with their homeland.

“By fast-tracking dual citizenship applications, we are enabling Kenyans abroad to reclaim their identity and contribute to the economic development of our nation,” he said.

According to Bitok, the government is committed to facilitating the migration of Kenyans seeking job opportunities abroad, while also attracting unique expertise and investments to the country.

“We are keen on attracting high-net-worth visitors and investors to Kenya through the introduction of the Electronic Travel Authorisation (eTA) system, which will simplify travel and enhance tourism and business opportunities,” he added.

Statistics estimate that approximately three million Kenyans live in the diaspora, with many holding dual citizenship. However, a significant number had to relinquish their Kenyan citizenship before the 2010 Constitution to qualify for other nationalities.

Section 16 of the Constitution provides for dual nationality.

Those wishing to reclaim their Kenyan citizenship must submit online applications through eCitizen and the Directorate of Immigration website.