Life in Europe for migrants from Kenya
For some migrants from Kenya, reaching Europe is seen as the final stage of a long migration journey. However, life in Europe may be different from what many people expect. Migrants can face various administrative, economic, and social challenges after arrival.
Life in Europe — Knowledge Check
Reaching Europe is not the end of the journey — it is the beginning of a new set of challenges. For Kenyans arriving irregularly, the gap between expectation and reality can be enormous. How well do you understand what life in Europe actually looks like? Answer all 8 questions.
1. Administrative and legal procedures
When migrants arrive in Europe, they often need to go through administrative procedures related to immigration status.
Depending on the situation, migrants may need to:
apply for asylum
request a residence permit
wait for decisions from immigration authorities
These procedures can take several months or even years, depending on the country and the complexity of the case.
During this time, migrants may face uncertainty about their future.
2. Access to employment
Finding stable employment in Europe can sometimes be difficult, especially for newcomers.
Migrants may encounter challenges such as:
recognition of foreign qualifications
language barriers
limited professional networks
administrative restrictions on employment
Although some migrants find work and build successful careers, others may initially work in temporary or low-paid jobs.
Studies show that many Kenyans who migrate to Europe often do so for education, employment opportunities, or family reunification, but access to stable work may still require time and adaptation.
3. Cost of living
The cost of living in many European countries can be significantly higher than in Kenya.
Migrants may need to manage expenses such as:
housing and rent
transportation
healthcare or insurance
daily living costs
These expenses can make it difficult to save money during the first years after arrival.
4. Social and cultural adaptation
Living in a new country may require adapting to a different culture, language, and social environment.
Migrants may experience:
language barriers
cultural differences
separation from family and friends
challenges integrating into local communities
However, many migrants also find support through diaspora communities and cultural associations.
According to migration studies, hundreds of thousands of Kenyans live abroad, including large communities in Europe, particularly in the United Kingdom.
5. Opportunities and contributions
Despite the challenges, many migrants are able to build stable lives in Europe over time.
Migration can also create opportunities such as:
access to education and professional training
employment and career development
financial support for families in Kenya through remittances
Remittances sent by Kenyans living abroad represent an important source of income for the Kenyan economy and support many households.
