Frequently Asked Questions

What are my rights and obligations when I register my application for asylum?

You must answer with absolute sincerity all questions asked by the Registration staff. You must provide information that is completely true and correct. Failure to tell the truth or giving information that is false or misleading will have a negative effect on your application for asylum.

All information will be kept confidential and will be only shared with UNHCR, and if you authorize, with other NGOs to receive adequate assistance.

Where can I find the Refugee Affairs Secretariat (RAS) offices to register my application for asylum?

Refugee Affairs Secretariat (RAS) offices can be found in the following locations:

  • Dadaab
  • Eldoret: Public Works Building next to immigration, Oloo Street
  • Kakuma
  • Mombasa: Opposite St. Mary’s Academy, Bombolulu estate
  • Nairobi: Ambira Road (future: General Mathenge Road)
  • Nakuru: Farming Systems of Kenya Building, Kabarak Road, Kiamunyi

Registration centers are open from Monday to Friday from 8:00 to 16:00. Kindly note that most offices close the entry of asylum seekers and refugees at 10:00 am and process only persons inside the compound.

Visit this page for more information about the asylum process.

I would like to stay in an urban area, is that possible?

The 2006 Kenya Refugees Act requires all asylum seekers to live in either Kakuma, Kalobeyei or one of the camps in Dadaab. If you are unable to report to the camp, you MUST seek permission to stay in Nairobi and or other urban areas in Kenya. Requests for permission to stay in the urban area should in principle be made from the camps and in certain situations from Nairobi. Such requests are assessed against set criteria and can be granted or denied.

If you are allowed to reside in urban areas, you will be issued with an appointment slip for your interview during which your refugee status will be examined.

My family situation has changed, I have a newborn baby or I got married or a family member has joined my in Kenya?

If you wish to add babies, minors, and spouses, kindly approach RAS registration centers on Friday.


See also

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