Work Permits for Kenya

If you are a non-Kenyan wishing to remain in the country for over six months, you need a Kenyan work residence permit, usually obtained before arriving.

To obtain a work permit before arriving in Kenya, you must apply online through the Kenyan Immigration portal. The process involves setting up an account on the portal, filling out the relevant application form based on the class of permit needed, providing required documents such as a cover letter from your employer, copies of your passport, two passport photos and paying the application fees. Once the application is submitted online, you may need to appear in person at the immigration office in Nairobi to complete the process and provide biometrics.

Work permits are often granted for two years, with the opportunity for renewal. To renew a permit, you should apply three months prior to expiry to allow time for verification. If your employment ends before the permit expires, you must surrender the permit and leave Kenya.

If you have been hired to work in Kenya, you are likely to have some level of support from your employer when it comes to arranging your visa and work permit, including covering visa-related costs. Aid agencies in Kenya also assist their volunteers and employees with their visa applications. If you are starting your own business in Kenya, you must secure licences and demonstrate earning potential to receive a work and business permit.

Companies in certain sectors are prioritised and allocated more work permits than others, such as telecommunications, information and communication technology, oil and gas and exploration and production.

The application processing takes time – up to three months – so we encourage you to start planning as early as possible. This gives you more time to search for accommodation in Kenya before leaving.

After your work permit has been processed, you will receive an Alien Card. The Alien Card allows you to register with the Kenya Revenue Authority (KRA) to get a tax number known as a KRA PIN.

There are various classes of work and residency permits to suit your motives for settling in Kenya, covering everyone, from short-term assignees to retirees. The main permits you may require are outlined below and are for prescribed professions (Class C), employment permits (Class D) and trade and business (Class G).

There are also permit classes for prospecting and mining, agriculture and animal husbandry, specific manufacturing, and religious or charitable activities.

Useful links

• Kenyan Immigration Portal

Work permits for Kenya

Class C – Prescribed profession permits

Kenya’s immigration regulations classify certain jobs as ‘prescribed professions’. These include medical professionals, legal professionals, architects, engineers, accountants and ICT experts. If you're in one of these fields, you'll need to register with a relevant professional body in Kenya.

To be formally registered, you must possess the relevant academic qualifications, complete any required training or internships and submit a filled application form along with supporting documents. These may include certified copies of your academic and professional certificates, proof of work experience and payment of a membership application fee.

Like with other classes of work permits, it is best that you seek guidance from a relocation professional and the nearest embassy. Doing this ensures you know exactly which category to apply for and what is needed from you. There are several excellent relocation agencies in Kenya that can assist with the relocation process.

Class D – Employment permits

This permit covers those moving to Kenya for a specific job with a single employer. It's intended for individuals with skills and qualifications that may not be available in the local workforce and will benefit the country.

If you already have a job in place, consider the Class D permit. You may need to submit contractual details, a cover letter signed by you and your employer, and your curriculum vitae and professional certificates. The application process involves completing Form 25 and providing documents such as a copy of your passport, two recent passport-sized photos, your current immigration status (if already in Kenya), tax compliance certificates and any additional job-specific documents.

Class G – Specific trade, business or consultancy permits

This permit is issued to those looking to invest in a specific trade or set up a business or consultancy in Kenya. The requirements include submitting a completed application Form 25, a signed cover letter, a valid business plan and proof of business registration. You'll also need to demonstrate proof of capital investment (a minimum of USD 100,000), tax compliance certificates and audited financial statements for renewals.

Expats have successfully established various businesses in Kenya, including hospitality and tourism ventures, technology startups focusing on mobile applications and software development and agribusinesses involved in organic farming and exporting agricultural products. If you're looking to invest in Kenya, ensuring you meet the capital requirement through bank statements or other financial documents is essential.

Residence permits for Kenya

Certain work permit holders can apply for permanent residence in Kenya, along with ordinary residents who meet specific criteria and spouses of Kenyan citizens.

Permanent residence for work permit holders

If you have held work permits for at least seven years and have resided continuously in Kenya for three years, you can apply for permanent residency. This status, known as Category B, allows you to live and work in Kenya without a work permit. To qualify, you must demonstrate good conduct, including a clean criminal record, and provide proof of financial stability to support yourself without relying on public funds.

Holding permanent residence in Kenya provides several benefits:

• You can live and work in Kenya without needing to apply for a work permit.
• Enjoy access to various public services and benefits, similar to Kenyan citizens.
• Your residency status is secure and does not require renewal like temporary permits.
• You may apply for Kenyan citizenship after fulfilling specific residency requirements.

Permanent residence for spouses of Kenyan citizens

Spouses of Kenyan nationals who have been married for at least three years are entitled to apply for permanent residency. To prove your marriage, you will need to provide documents such as a certified copy of your marriage certificate, proof of cohabitation (e.g., joint bank accounts, utility bills, lease agreements), copies of both spouses' passports and the Kenyan citizen's national ID or passport.

Additional benefits for spouses of Kenyan citizens holding permanent residence include:

• You can work in Kenya without needing a separate work permit.
• You may apply for Kenyan citizenship after meeting the residency requirements.
• Easier processes for family reunification, allowing children and dependents to join you in Kenya.

Class K – Ordinary residents permits

This type of permit, Class K, is for ‘ordinary residents’ above the age of 35 and is highly exclusive and limited to wealthier applicants. The income must meet the following criteria:

• Minimum Amount: At least USD 24,000 per annum.
• Source of Income: Derived from sources outside Kenya or from a pension or annuity payable from sources in Kenya.

If you hold a Class K permit and wish to work, you have a couple of options:

• Obtain a work permit if you wish to engage in employment or business activities.
• Engage in volunteer work, provided it does not generate income without the appropriate permits.

*Visa regulations are subject to change at short notice, and you should contact your respective embassy or consulate for the latest details.