The National Social Security Fund (NSSF) has explained how Kenyans permanently leaving the country can claim their savings through the Emigration Benefit.

🇰🇪 Breaking It Down

The benefit is available to eligible NSSF members who are relocating permanently to countries outside the East African Community (EAC) and have no intention of returning to Kenya.

In an update on Wednesday, September 9, NSSF said members planning to permanently move abroad may qualify for the benefit if they meet the required conditions.

"If you’re planning to permanently move from Kenya to a country outside the East African Community (EAC) with no intention of returning, you may be eligible to claim your NSSF Emigration Benefit," the Fund stated.

📌 What You Need to Know

Members seeking the benefit are required to provide their NSSF membership card and either a National ID, valid passport or Alien ID Card, alongside a certified copy of their retirement letter, certificate of service or termination letter.

Applicants must also provide evidence of a migration visa for a country outside the EAC to demonstrate their plans to relocate permanently, while Kenyan citizens are required to submit an affidavit declaring their permanent immigration from Kenya.

The clarification comes amid questions on when NSSF members can access their accumulated savings , particularly after leaving employment. NSSF has previously clarified that losing a job does not automatically allow a member to withdraw their benefits.

The explanation followed an online exchange between NSSF and a Kenyan who asked to access part of his savings after his employment contract was terminated without renewal.

NSSF responded that contributors can access their benefits after retiring from employment or upon reaching the age of 50 and no longer earning a salary.

"To claim your benefits from NSSF, you must have retired from employment or have reached the age of 50 and are no longer working," the Fund clarified.

📰 Source: Kenyans.co.ke