How to apply for a dependant pass in Kenya

A dependant pass is issued to a person whose spouse, parent or guardian is lawfully entitled to enter Kenya. A Kenyan citizen, a permanent resident or a valid permit holder (“the Applicant”) who intends to live in Kenya over a long period of time may make an application to the Kenyan Immigration Officer on behalf of their spouse, child or disabled adult living under their care (“the Dependant”) so that the dependant is legally allowed to live with the person in the country.

A dependant is an individual who has little or no income or is otherwise unable to take care of themselves because of age, medical condition or lack of income. The dependant is thus reliant on the applicant for maintenance during the duration of their stay in Kenya. When making an application for a dependant’s pass, the applicant needs to prove that he/she has sufficient income to support the dependant for the duration of stay in the country.

The applicant must also provide proof of his/her relationship with the dependant by the presentation of a birth certificate, a marriage certificate or a death certificate. In case the dependant has a disability due to a medical condition, the applicant may produce a medical certificate as proof of incapacity.

The Director of Immigration shall upon receipt of the applicant’s application issue the dependant with a pass (“Dependant’s Pass”) upon being satisfied that the dependant is reliant on the applicant and that the applicant has sufficient income to support their livelihood while in Kenya. The dependant pass allows the dependant to enter and live in Kenya for the duration the pass remains valid.

Requirements to apply for a dependant pass in Kenya

In order to be granted a dependant pass in Kenya, you must fulfill the following requirements.

1. A duly filled and signed Form 28 – Dependant Pass online form. You will print out the form at the end of the application for a dependant pass. In case you want to reprint your application form, you can do so by going to “My Applications” section here.
2. Detailed and signed cover letter from the applicant addressed to the Director of Immigration Services.
3. Two (2) recent colored passport size photographs of the dependant.
4. Copy of a valid national passport/National ID (bio-data page) for both the applicant and the dependant.
5. Evidence of the relationship between the applicant and the dependant i.e. duly certified copies of marriage certificate, birth certificate, and death certificate, whichever applicable.
6. Proof of sufficient and assured income to sustain self and the dependant.
7. Documents in foreign languages should be translated into English by either the embassy, public notary, or authorized/recognized institution.
8. Documentary proof of any other condition leading to dependency e.g. medical condition, disability, age, among others.
9. A valid copy of permit for those applicants holding a work permit (at least six months prior to date of application).
10. Copy of checklist. Click here to download.

How to apply for a dependant pass in Kenya

To apply for a dependant pass, you need to follow these steps.

1. Create a log in account within the Government of Kenya Single Sign On portal.
2. Log in using the account you have created above to access eFNS portal.
3. Once logged in the eFNS portal, select the “Apply Now” link.
4. Click on the “Submit Applications” tab and select the dependant pass tab. If you are already logged in to eFNS , you can click here to make an application.
5. After your application is approved, an invoice will be generated which you can see by clicking on “Dashboard” then “Payments” tab. If you have already logged in eFNS, you can click here to make a payment.
6. If unable to pay using any of the online modes, print your invoice by clicking on “Dashboard” then “Payments” tab (If you have already logged in eFNS, you can click here to print your invoice).
7. Present your invoice and banker’s cheque at the Immigration Counter at Nyayo House, Nairobi for payments.
8. You shall receive automatic notifications via email and on your online account about the progress of your application.