Process for Sponsoring a Stepchild for Residency in Kenya

Blog
1

Process for Sponsoring a Stepchild for Residency in Kenya

Introduction

Kenya, a vibrant and welcoming nation in East Africa, offers a comprehensive legal framework for sponsoring stepchildren for residency. This article provides an in-depth guide to the process, covering all necessary details and requirements.

Eligibility

To sponsor a stepchild for residency in Kenya, the following eligibility criteria must be met:

  • The sponsor must be a Kenyan citizen or permanent resident.
  • The stepchild must be under 18 years of age.
  • The stepchild must be the biological or legally adopted child of the sponsor’s spouse.
  • The sponsor must have legal custody of the stepchild.
  • The sponsor must have sufficient financial means to support the stepchild.

Required Documents

The following documents are required for the sponsorship process:

  • Sponsor’s Documents:
    • Kenyan passport or national ID card
    • Proof of income (e.g., salary slips, bank statements)
    • Proof of accommodation (e.g., lease agreement, title deed)
  • Stepchild’s Documents:
    • Birth certificate
    • Passport
    • Proof of relationship to the sponsor (e.g., marriage certificate, adoption certificate)
    • Proof of legal custody (e.g., court order)
  • Other Documents:
    • Two passport-sized photographs of the stepchild
    • Medical report for the stepchild
    • Police clearance certificate for the sponsor and stepchild

Procedure

The sponsorship process involves the following steps:

1. Application Submission

  • The sponsor submits the required documents to the Directorate of Immigration Services (DIS).
  • The application can be submitted in person at the DIS headquarters in Nairobi or at designated regional offices.
  • An application fee is payable at the time of submission.

2. Document Verification

  • The DIS verifies the authenticity and validity of the submitted documents.
  • The sponsor may be required to provide additional documentation if necessary.

3. Interview

  • The sponsor and stepchild may be called for an interview with an immigration officer.
  • The interview assesses the sponsor’s suitability and the stepchild’s eligibility.

4. Decision

  • The DIS makes a decision on the application based on the submitted documents and the interview.
  • The sponsor will be notified of the decision in writing.

5. Issuance of Residency Permit

  • If the application is approved, a residency permit will be issued to the stepchild.
  • The residency permit is valid for a period of three years and can be renewed thereafter.

Duration of Residency

The residency permit issued to the stepchild is initially valid for three years. Upon expiration, the sponsor can apply for a renewal for an additional three years. After residing in Kenya for a total of six years, the stepchild may apply for permanent residency.

Rights and Responsibilities

Stepchildren granted residency in Kenya enjoy the following rights:

  • To live and work in Kenya
  • To attend school
  • To access healthcare
  • To apply for citizenship after meeting the necessary requirements

The sponsor is responsible for providing financial support, accommodation, and general well-being of the stepchild.

Conclusion

Sponsoring a stepchild for residency in Kenya is a multi-step process with specific eligibility criteria and documentation requirements. By following the outlined procedure and submitting all necessary documents, sponsors can navigate the process successfully and provide a stable and secure environment for their stepchildren in Kenya.