Yes, a US citizen can live in Kenya in 2026, but they must obtain a valid residence permit (referred to as a "Pass" or "Permit"). The most common route for long-term stay is the Class K Permit, designed for people with an assured annual income of at least $24,000 USD from offshore sources (like a pension or investments) who do not intend to work locally. For those who want to work or start a business, Class D (Employment) or Class G (Investor) permits are required. In 2026, all permit applications are digitized through the eFNS portal. After living in Kenya legally for 7 consecutive years, US citizens are eligible to apply for Permanent Residency, which grants the right to live and work indefinitely without renewing permits. Kenya is a popular choice for 2026 "digital nomads" and retirees due to its favorable climate, high-quality private healthcare in Nairobi, and the vibrant expat communities in coastal areas like Diani and Watamu.