Work Permits for Kenya

If you’re planning to stay in Kenya for more than six months, whether for employment, business, or volunteering, you’ll need a Kenyan work residence permit. This permit is essential for legally living and working in the country, and it’s typically something you must secure before you arrive.

A work residence permit in Kenya isn’t just a formality; it’s a crucial document that authorises your stay and allows you to contribute to the local economy. Depending on your profession or the nature of your business, there are various classes of permits designed to cater to different needs, from short-term assignments to long-term business ventures.

Anyone who is not a Kenyan citizen and intends to stay in Kenya for an extended period (usually over six months) will need to apply for a work residence permit. This includes professionals, entrepreneurs, volunteers, and even retirees looking to settle in the country. Without the appropriate permit, your stay in Kenya could be cut short, and you may face penalties.

How to apply for a work permit

Applying for a work permit before arriving in Kenya is a straightforward but detailed process:

• Create an account: Start by setting up an account on the Kenyan Immigration portal.
• Complete the application: Fill out the relevant application form, choosing the class of permit that fits your situation, such as employment (Class D) or business (Class G).
• Gather your documents: You’ll need several documents, including a cover letter from your employer, copies of your passport, two passport-sized photos, and any other required materials specific to your permit class.
• Submit and pay: Once your application is complete, submit it online and pay the necessary fees. You may also be required to visit the immigration office in Nairobi to provide biometrics and complete the process.

Work permits are typically issued for two years, with the possibility of renewal. To renew, you should apply at least three months before your permit expires. Keep in mind that if your employment ends before the permit’s expiry date, you’ll need to surrender your permit and leave Kenya.

Other considerations

If you’re fortunate enough to have secured employment in Kenya, your employer might assist with the work permit process, possibly covering associated costs. For those starting their own business in Kenya, be prepared to demonstrate your business’s earning potential as part of the permit application process.

Some sectors in Kenya, like telecommunications, ICT, oil and gas, receive priority in work permit allocation, making it slightly easier to obtain the necessary documents in these fields.

The application process can take up to three months, so it’s wise to start early. This also gives you ample time to arrange accommodation in Kenya and sort out other logistics before your move.

Once your work permit is approved, you’ll receive an Alien Card, which is your key to registering with the Kenya Revenue Authority (KRA) for a tax number (KRA PIN).

Useful links

• Kenyan Immigration Portal

Types of 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 dependants 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.