The Kenya Citizenship and Immigration Act, 2011 is a comprehensive legal framework that addresses various aspects related to citizenship, immigration, and travel documents in Kenya. Let’s delve into some key provisions of this act:
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Citizenship
- Citizenship by Birth: The act outlines provisions for acquiring Kenyan citizenship by birth.
- Limitation as to Descent: It specifies conditions related to citizenship based on descent.
- Dual Citizenship: The act allows for dual citizenship under certain circumstances.
- Citizenship by Presumption: Procedures for acquiring citizenship by presumption are defined.
- Regaining Citizenship: Individuals who lost their Kenyan citizenship can regain it through specific processes.
- Citizenship by Marriage: The act addresses citizenship through marriage.
- Widows and Widowers: Provisions related to citizenship for widows and widowers are included.
- Lawful Residence: Criteria for lawful residence leading to citizenship are outlined.
- Adopted Children: The act covers citizenship for adopted children.
- Stateless Persons: Measures to address the status of stateless individuals are provided.
- Migrants: Provisions related to migrants’ citizenship are included.
- Descendants of Stateless Persons and Migrants: The act addresses descendants of stateless persons and migrants.
- Effect of Registration: Implications of citizenship registration are specified.
- Voluntary Renunciation of Kenyan Citizenship: Procedures for voluntarily renouncing Kenyan citizenship are outlined.
- Voluntary Renunciation of Citizenship of Another Country: The act covers renunciation of foreign citizenship.
- Revocation of Citizenship: Grounds for revoking citizenship are defined.
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Rights and Duties of Citizens
- The act enumerates the rights and responsibilities of Kenyan citizens.
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Passports and Other Travel Documents
- It outlines who is entitled to passports and other travel documents.
- Different types of passports and their validity are specified.
- Procedures for application, issuance, replacement, and handling lost or damaged passports are detailed.
- Passports and travel documents serve as evidence of citizenship and domicile.
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Immigration Controls
- The act addresses prohibited immigrants, entry and removal of immigrants, issuance of visas, and various permits.
- Permanent residence rights and obligations are defined.
- Measures for removing persons unlawfully present in Kenya are outlined.
- Employers, carriers, institutions of learning, and accommodation providers have specific duties and obligations.
- Immigration officers have powers related to enforcement and arrest.
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Foreign Nationals Management
- The act covers the management of foreign nationals within Kenya.
- Review and appeal mechanisms are provided.
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Miscellaneous Provisions
- Electronic communication, regulations, and general penalties are included.
- Transitional provisions regarding re-entry, passports, and removal or deportation are specified.
- The act repeals certain previous laws.
For the full text of the Kenya Citizenship and Immigration Act, 2011, you can refer to the official document here.
Please note that this summary provides an overview, and for legal matters, it’s advisable to consult the complete act or seek legal advice.