Kenyan residency for non-workers?

marcuswestberg · 2010-10-12T08:48:36+02:00

Explore residency options in Kenya for non-workers. Get insights on Alien Registration and temporary residency applications for foreigners conducting research.

marcuswestberg New member

Member since 12 October 2010

marcuswestbergNew member12 October 2010 06:48:36

Hi all,

My wife and I will be spending most of 2011 in Kenya, where I will be conducting research in tourism/conservation. I've got a research permit, and KWS are granting us access to some of the parks and reserves at student rates. These are still quite high for non-residents, however. I've tried to get the Dept of Immigration on the phone (from Australia, where I live) but without luck. Does Alien Registration entitle us to some for of temporary residency? If not, can we apply for it somehow? I've also tried the Kenyan High Commission here in Australia, but they know nothing of these things. Any help much appreciated - feel free to reply here or email: marcusw@utas.edu.au. Thanks!!

Marcus

kenyandesi Active member

Member since 11 May 2010

kenyandesiActive member12 October 2010 07:46:36

Greetings Marcus and karibu!
Kenya has over 1000 researchers from around the world at any given time.
If you have the pass then you are entitled to come and stay in Kenya, provided your not working for monetary gain (employment) - for that you will need a work permit.
However as you have already established contact with the KWS I know for a fact that they can assist you with any documentation once your here. You can come on either a regular visa and then apply for an extension once your here.
I would advise this rather than trying to apply for a pass from Australia. Just ensure you have a place to stay, enough funds, proper medical documents, transport and a plan before you come. I have seen many researchers really struggle because of poor planning / preparation. If you need any further advice do let me know.
I specialize in consultancy and work very closely with organizations like Action for Cheetahs Kenya, Sporting Conservation, East African Whale Shark Trust Fund to name a few, so I am sure I will be able to assist you.
email me on info@zenoadvisory.com if you need anything else.

marcuswestberg New member

Member since 12 October 2010

marcuswestbergNew member12 October 2010 08:36:04

Hi kenyandesi,

Thans! I finally got through to Immigration, and yes, it does look like Pupil's Pass for me and then adding my wife as a Dependent is the way to go. Because I have an affiliation with a Kenyan university, USIU, Immigration suggested that they hand in my application before I arrive so that it has already been granted. It is good to know that it can be done in person when I get there if all else falls through, however. Yes, I suspected as much, so I have been planning, preparing and arranging whatever paperwork seems necessary for the past six months - time that was certainly needed! I've got another five months before I arrive in Kenya, so hopefully that'll be enough to sort most of this out...

Thanks again for your help and advice!

Marcus

Kenyandoc New member

Member since 08 October 2010

KenyandocNew member17 October 2010 00:11:00

Kindly note once you land in nairobi you automatically get a tourist visa at the airport. As you settle in accomodation,transport and other essentials have to be taken care yourself. The Kenya wildlife services are very helpful in assisting you in your projects. Go seek an appointment with the training manager at the Nairobi Headquarters of the Kenya Wildlife services. The gentleman is called Mr John Karenu who is very helpful, I have interacted with him professionally.
E-mail me at rk3136@gmail.com if you are stuck anywhere and we will look for a solution