Your Complete Guide to Kenya Work Permits: Fast-Track Your Move to East Africa’s Economic Hub
Planning to work in Kenya? You’re joining thousands of professionals who’ve discovered why Kenya is Africa’s gateway for business and career growth. From the new Digital Nomad visa to comprehensive EAC permits, Kenya now offers more pathways than ever for international talent.
Whether you’re a tech entrepreneur eyeing Nairobi’s Silicon Savannah, a digital nomad seeking the perfect work-life balance, a healthcare professional seeking new opportunities, or an investor ready to tap into Kenya’s $100 billion economy, this guide will walk you through everything you need to know.
Quick Facts: What You Need to Know First
- Application Portal: All applications submitted online via eFNS Portal (https://fns.immigration.go.ke)
- Processing Time: Typical processing 4-12 weeks, but may vary significantly based on documentation and current workload
- Validity: Most permits valid for 1 year (renewable)
- Cost Range: Varies significantly by category – confirm current rates on eFNS portal
- EAC Citizens: Many permits are FREE (Gratis) for East African Community members
The Complete Work Permit Categories Explained
Class A – Mining & Mineral Exploration
For prospecting and mining activities
- Requirements: Mining licenses, proof of investment (min. $100,000)
- Cost: Processing KES 20,000 + Issuance KES 500,000/year
- EAC Citizens: FREE
Class B – Agriculture & Animal Husbandry
For farming and livestock ventures
- Requirements: Land ownership/lease, capital proof (min. $100,000)
- Cost: Processing KES 20,000 + Issuance KES 250,000/year
- EAC Citizens: FREE
Class C – Prescribed Professions
For regulated professionals (doctors, lawyers, engineers, etc.)
- Requirements: Professional registration, certified qualifications
- Cost: Processing KES 250,000 issuance + 20,000 processing (rates vary by profession)
- Covered Professions: Medical, dental, legal, engineering, nursing, IT, accounting, and more
- EAC Citizens: Significant discounts apply
Class D – Employment Permit
Most common – for specific job offers
- Requirements: Job offer, skills unavailable locally, Kenyan understudy
- Cost: Processing KES 20,000 + Issuance KES 500,000/year
- Special Requirement: Must train a Kenyan understudy
- EAC Citizens: FREE
Class F – Manufacturing
For manufacturing businesses
- Requirements: Manufacturing license, capital proof (min. $100,000)
- Cost: Processing KES 20,000 + Issuance KES 250,000/year
- EAC Citizens: FREE
Class G – Business & Consultancy
For entrepreneurs and consultants
- Requirements: Business registration, capital proof (min. $100,000)
- Cost: Processing KES 20,000 + Issuance KES 250,000/year
- EAC Citizens: FREE
Class I – Religious & Charitable Activities
For missionaries and charity workers
- Requirements: Organization registration under Societies Act
- Cost: Processing KES 5,000 + Issuance KES 50,000/year
- EAC Citizens: FREE
Class K – Ordinary Residents (Retirees)
For residents without employment
- Requirements: Age 35+, assured income $24,000/year from external sources
- Cost: Processing KES 20,000 + Issuance KES 250,000/year
- EAC Citizens: FREE
Class M – Refugees
For recognized refugees seeking employment
- Requirements: Valid refugee certificate, UNHCR recognition
- Cost: FREE for all applicants
Class N – Digital Nomad Permit ⭐ ANNOUNCED 2024 (Pending official gazette notice and implementation by Immigration)
For remote workers and digital nomads
- Status: Kenya has announced a forthcoming Class N Digital Nomad Permit (expected launch 2024/2025)
- Proposed Requirements: Remote work proof, minimum income $24,000/year, accommodation proof
- Purpose: Live and work remotely in Kenya for foreign employers
- Benefits: No local employer needed, pathway to residency
- Cost: Official fee structure and application process are pending
Enhanced EAC Privileges
Expanded opportunities for East African Community citizens
- Status: Kenya has introduced expanded privileges for EAC citizens, including streamlined work and business permits
- Practice: Most EAC applicants are granted Gratis permits across various classes
- Coverage: All EAC member states (Kenya, Uganda, Tanzania, Rwanda, Burundi, South Sudan, DRC)
- Benefits: Simplified documentation and FREE processing
Special Pass
Temporary permit (up to 6 months)
- Purpose: Short-term business, trade, or professional activities
- Cost: $200/month for non-EAC citizens
- EAC Citizens: FREE
Special Advantages for Africans
East African Community (EAC) Citizens
If you’re from Kenya, Uganda, Tanzania, Rwanda, Burundi, South Sudan, or DRC:
- FREE permits: Most work permits are completely FREE (Gratis)
- Class R Special Permit: Comprehensive permit covering residence, employment, and business
- Regional mobility: Enhanced freedom of movement under EAC Common Market Protocol
- Simplified documentation: Reduced requirements across all categories
Digital Nomads & Remote Workers ⭐ ANNOUNCED
Kenya’s announced Class N Digital Nomad Permit (expected launch 2024/2025):
- Official fee structure and application process are pending
- Proposed to allow remote work for foreign employers while living in Kenya
- Expected to offer pathway to permanent residency
- Part of Kenya’s strategy to attract global digital talent
- Applications expected to open soon
Other African Nationals
- Standard process applies
- Bilateral agreements may speed processing
- Growing continental cooperation benefits
Essential Documents Checklist
✓ Online Application: Complete Form 25 (or specific form) via eFNS Portal
✓ Valid passport (bio-data page copy)
✓ Recent passport photos (colored)
✓ Academic certificates (certified copies)
✓ Professional licenses/credentials
✓ Tax compliance certificate (from KRA)
✓ Current immigration status (if already in Kenya)
✓ Cover letter addressed to Director General of Immigration
✓ Investment proof (for business permits – min. $100,000)
✓ Company registration documents (for business permits)
Additional for Class D (Employment): ✓ Form 27 (Kenyan understudy details)
✓ Evidence of local recruitment attempts
✓ Kenyan understudy’s qualifications and contacts
Important Application Details
Application Process:
- Submit online via eFNS Portal (https://fns.immigration.go.ke)
- Upload all documents as digital copies
- Pay processing fees (non-refundable)
- Wait for processing and approval
- Print approved permit from portal
- Present to immigration office for endorsement
Key Requirements for Business Permits:
- Minimum investment: $100,000 USD for most business categories
- Tax compliance: Must have current KRA certificates
- Company registration: Full incorporation documents required
- Audited accounts: Required for renewals
Special Note for Class D (Employment):
- Must demonstrate skills unavailable locally
- Mandatory: Train a Kenyan understudy
- Evidence of competitive local recruitment required
Why Choose Professional Assistance?
The difference between a smooth approval and months of frustrating delays often comes down to local expertise. Here’s what professional support provides:
What Come Travel Kenya Delivers:
- Document Review – Ensuring applications are fully compliant with immigration requirements
- Direct Connections – Access to immigration offices and relevant authorities
- Regulatory Guidance – Up-to-date information on current permit requirements
- Process Acceleration – Streamlined handling through established relationships
- Relocation Support – Assistance with housing, settling-in, and orientation
- Ongoing Services – Follow-ups for renewals and family permits
Your Next Steps
Ready to start your Kenya journey?
- Free Consultation – We assess your situation and recommend the right permit
- Document Preparation – We guide you through the requirements
- Application Submission – We guide you through the submission process with immigration authorities
- Arrival Support – We help you settle in Kenya smoothly
CTK is a licensed Destination Management Company. With our experience, extensive network, and dedication, we work tirelessly to ensure securing your work permit is seamless, compliant, and hassle-free.