New Legal Aid and Resettlement Routes Open for Refugees in Kenya’s Camps
Kakuma, 19 June 2026
Refugees in Kakuma and Kalobeyei can now access free legal aid and explore resettlement to third countries beyond traditional quotas. This groundbreaking initiative, led by the Refugee Consortium of Kenya and UNHCR, offers critical support for documentation, work permits, and protection—while providing a lifeline to those seeking new beginnings abroad.
Who Can Access These New Services?
The legal aid and resettlement programmes are open to refugees and asylum seekers registered in Kakuma and Kalobeyei camps. Priority is given to vulnerable groups, including women at risk, unaccompanied minors, survivors of violence, and individuals with medical needs [1][2]. Refugees from South Sudan, Somalia, Ethiopia, and the Democratic Republic of Congo constitute the majority of the camp populations and are explicitly encouraged to apply [1]. To qualify for legal aid, refugees must demonstrate a specific legal need, such as documentation issues, work permit applications, or protection concerns [1]. For complementary pathways, eligibility depends on the requirements of the third country, which may include family links, labour market needs, or educational opportunities [2].
How to Apply for Legal Aid
Refugees seeking legal assistance must visit the Refugee Consortium of Kenya (RCK) offices located in Kakuma 1, Kakuma 2, Kakuma 3, Kakuma 4, and Kalobeyei Settlement [1]. RCK operates legal aid clinics from Monday to Friday, between 08:00 and 17:00 East Africa Time [1]. Applicants should bring their refugee registration documents, any relevant legal papers, and a brief description of their issue [1]. RCK provides services in English, Swahili, Somali, Amharic, French, and Arabic to ensure accessibility [1]. The organisation also offers Alternative Dispute Resolution (ADR) for conflicts that do not require formal court proceedings, such as family disputes or landlord-tenant issues [1]. There are no deadlines for legal aid applications, as services are provided on an ongoing basis [1].
Exploring Complementary Pathways for Resettlement
UNHCR’s complementary pathways programme offers refugees alternative routes to resettlement in third countries, beyond traditional refugee quotas [2]. These pathways include family reunification, labour mobility schemes, and educational opportunities [2]. For example, refugees with family members already resettled in countries like Canada, Australia, or the United Kingdom may qualify for family reunification [2]. Labour mobility schemes target refugees with skills in high-demand sectors, such as healthcare, engineering, or IT, and may lead to work visas in countries like Germany or Sweden [2]. Educational pathways, such as scholarships or student visas, are available for refugees pursuing higher education [2].
Steps to Apply for Complementary Pathways
Refugees interested in complementary pathways must first register their interest at the UNHCR offices in Kakuma or Kalobeyei [2]. UNHCR staff will conduct an initial assessment to determine eligibility and identify the most suitable pathway [2]. For family reunification, refugees must provide proof of their relationship to the family member in the third country, such as birth or marriage certificates [2]. Labour mobility schemes require evidence of qualifications, work experience, and language proficiency [2]. Educational pathways may require academic transcripts, letters of acceptance from educational institutions, and proof of financial support [2]. Deadlines for applications vary depending on the pathway and the third country’s requirements [2]. Refugees are advised to consult UNHCR as early as possible to avoid missing opportunities [2].
What Happens After Applying?
For legal aid, RCK will assign a caseworker to each applicant within 7 to 14 days of registration [1]. The caseworker will provide legal advice, represent the refugee in administrative or court proceedings if necessary, and follow up on the case until resolution [1]. For complementary pathways, UNHCR will refer eligible refugees to partner organisations or embassies for further processing [2]. Processing times vary significantly depending on the pathway and the third country’s procedures [2]. For example, family reunification applications may take 6 to 12 months, while labour mobility schemes can take 3 to 6 months [2]. UNHCR and RCK will provide regular updates to applicants and offer support throughout the process [1][2]. Refugees are encouraged to keep their contact information up to date to avoid missing important communications [1][2].
Additional Support and Resources
Both RCK and UNHCR offer additional resources to help refugees navigate these new opportunities. RCK provides community legal education sessions in the camps to raise awareness about refugee rights and the services available [1]. UNHCR organises information sessions on complementary pathways, including testimonials from refugees who have successfully resettled through these routes [2]. Refugees can also access psychosocial support, language classes, and vocational training to improve their chances of qualifying for resettlement or local integration [1][2]. For urgent protection issues, such as threats of violence or exploitation, refugees can contact RCK’s 24-hour hotline at +254 700 000 000 [1].