All about Passes

A pass in Kenya is an immigration permit issued to foreign nationals wishing to enter or remain in Kenya for a short period of time. It is commonly referred to as a temporary permit. It generally gives legal status to foreign nationals wishing to enter or remain in Kenya for a short period of time. The various classes of passes as provided under the enabling regulations include:

Ø A dependant’s pass - Issued to a person whose spouse, parent or guardian is lawfully entitled to enter Kenya in accordance with Section 27 (1) of the Kenya Citizenship and Immigration Regulations, 2012. Generally issued to persons who are Dependants of: Kenya Citizens, Permit holders, Exempted persons or Permanent residents

Ø A student’s / Pupil’s pass – Issued to a student seeking to enter into and remain in Kenya for the purposes of receiving education or training at an educational or training institution in Kenya.

Ø An intern or researcher’s pass – Issued to a person who is seeking to enter or remain in Kenya for the purposes of internship or an academic research.  

Ø A visitor’s pass – Issued to a person who wishes to enter Kenya for the purpose of a holiday or as visitor or for any other temporary purpose.

Ø A transit pass – Issued to a person who intends to enter Kenya for the purpose of travelling to a destination that is outside Kenya.

Ø A special pass – Issued to a person who wishes to enter or remain in Kenya for temporarily conducting any business, trade or profession or any other purpose which an immigration officer considers suitable. This document is issued for a short duration not exceeding three(3) months