The Foreign National Registration Certificate — commonly referred to as the Alien Card — is required for all foreign nationals aged 18 years and above who reside in Kenya under a valid work permit, Dependent’s Pass, or Permanent Residency. It enables the holder to access various government services in a manner similar to citizens who hold a National ID Card. Foreign nationals on a Special Pass or Visitor’s Pass are exempt.
The certificate is administered by the State Department for Immigration and Citizen Services and is applied for through the eCitizen portal.
Foreign National Registration Certificate Fee Summary Table
| Fee Type | Amount | Notes |
|---|---|---|
| Annual issuance fee | KES 5,000 per year | Revised from KES 1,000 under the 2024 fee revisions |
| Penalty for late registration | As prescribed | Confirm with Immigration |
The annual fee was revised from KES 1,000 to KES 5,000 under the immigration fee revisions effective 2024.
Key Requirements
Applicants submit a valid passport, their current valid immigration permit (work permit, Dependent’s Pass, or Permanent Residency certificate), and proof of residential address in Kenya. Applications are processed through the eCitizen portal or at Immigration headquarters. Foreign investors registered with KenInvest may obtain the Foreign National Registration Certificate directly through KenInvest’s one-stop facilitation service.
