Kenya
Kenya uses English for most official documents, but the application process for visas, family petitions, and civil record requests still involves specific procedures that trip people up. We help you gather the right documents, organize your packet in the correct order, and translate any Swahili-language records into certified English.
Country at a Glance
- Capital
- Nairobi
- Population
- 56 million
- Languages
- English, Swahili
- Columbus diaspora
- 8,000+
- Independence
- December 12, 1963
- Currency
- Kenyan Shilling (KES)
- Time Zone
- EAT (UTC+3)
US Travel Advisory — Level 2
Exercise Increased Caution
8,000+ Columbus Residents
Columbus has a well-established Kenyan community, with many residents working in healthcare, education, and technology sectors. Ohio State University has one of the largest Kenyan student populations in the Midwest. Kenya is also a transit country — many Somali Americans were born in Kenyan refugee camps (Dadaab, Kakuma) and have Kenyan-issued documents.
Why Columbus Residents Travel Here
- 1Family visits and ceremonies in Nairobi, Kisumu, Mombasa, and upcountry
- 2Business and investment opportunities
- 3Medical travel (NHIF, private hospitals)
- 4Property management and real estate
- 5Transitioning between US and Kenyan immigration status
Kenya Visa & Travel Overview
US State Department Level 2 — Exercise Increased Caution
US State Department Level 2 — terrorism concerns, particularly in border areas with Somalia. Nairobi and main tourist areas are generally accessible.
Columbus has a well-established Kenyan community, with many residents working in healthcare, education, and technology sectors. Ohio State University has one of the largest Kenyan student populations in the Midwest. Kenya is also a transit country — many Somali Americans were born in Kenyan refugee camps (Dadaab, Kakuma) and have Kenyan-issued documents.
Independence
December 12, 1963
Currency
Kenyan Shilling (KES)
Time Zone
EAT (UTC+3)
Driving Side
Left
Phone Code
+254
Visa System
eTA (Electronic Travel Auth.)
How Asal Helps With Kenya Documents
We are a document preparation and translation service — not an attorney or embassy. We make sure every document in your packet is correct before you submit.
Kenya Certificate of Good Conduct Assistance
The Kenya Certificate of Good Conduct (police clearance) is required for immigration applications, employment, and some visa processes. We walk you through the eCitizen portal application and help organize the supporting documents you need.
Civil Registry Document Requests
Kenya's civil registry holds birth certificates, marriage certificates, and death records. We help you prepare request letters and organize the certified copies needed for US immigration applications and visa filings.
Swahili Document Translation
Some older Kenyan civil records and local government documents are in Swahili. We provide certified English translations accepted by USCIS and US embassies.
Kenya eTA Application Assistance
Kenya now uses an electronic travel authorization (eTA) system for most visitors. We help Kenyan nationals in the US navigate the eTA portal and prepare supporting documents for family and tourist travel.
What You Typically Need
Every case is different — requirements vary by visa type and individual circumstances. We review your specific documents when you come in.
- 1Valid Kenyan passport (minimum 6 months validity)
- 2Kenya Certificate of Good Conduct (for immigration applications)
- 3Birth certificate from Kenya National Registration Bureau
- 4Marriage certificate (if applicable, certified copy)
- 5National ID card or Huduma Namba documentation
- 6Financial statements and proof of ties to Kenya or US
- 7Passport-style photos meeting embassy requirements
- 8Invitation letter if visiting family in the US
Navigating eCitizen and Kenya Government Portals from Abroad
Kenya has digitized many of its government services through the eCitizen portal, which is a great improvement — but using these systems from the US can be confusing, especially for older applications or when a family member in Kenya needs to assist. We help you understand exactly what to do, what documents to upload, and what to expect at each step. We also help draft request letters to the civil registry or county offices when in-person processes in Kenya are required.
Visa Types We Help With
Frequently Asked Questions — Kenya
How do I get my Kenya Certificate of Good Conduct from Columbus?+
Can you translate my Kenyan birth certificate into English?+
My family needs an invitation letter for a Kenya visa to visit me in the US. Can you help?+
Do Kenyans need a visa to visit the US?+
Consulate & Processing Information
The Kenya Embassy in Washington DC and the Consulate in Los Angeles handle consular services for Kenyan nationals in the US. Most Kenya civil record requests can now be initiated online through eCitizen.go.ke.
Kenya Document Assistance Near You
Serving all of Central Ohio from our office at 3185 Morse Rd, Suite 15, Columbus OH 43231.
Ready to Prepare Your Kenya Documents?
Walk in or call — we speak English, Somali, and Arabic.
3185 Morse Rd, Ste 15, Columbus, OH 43231 · Mon–Fri 10am–6pm · Sat 10am–6pm · Sun 10am–4pm