Everything You Need to Know Before Applying for a Kenyan Work Permit

A Work Permit is an official document granted by the Director of Immigration Services under Section 40 of the Kenya Citizenship and Immigration Act, 2011. It allows foreign nationals to enter Kenya and legally engage in activities such as trade, farming, business, professional employment, missionary work, or to reside in the country.

Work and Residence Permits are issued by the Director upon the recommendation of the Permit Determination Committee—an inter-ministerial body appointed by the Cabinet Secretary for the Ministry of Interior and Coordination of National Government, as outlined in Section 40(1) of the Act.

If an applicant is dissatisfied with the Director’s decision regarding a work or residence permit, they have the right to appeal to the Cabinet Secretary for a review under Section 22(1) of the Kenya Citizens and Foreign Nationals Management Service Act, 2011.

The Kenya Citizenship and Immigration Regulations, 2012, under Section 36(1) and the seventh schedule, outline various classes of permits that foreign nationals may apply for.

Application for Permit Class A: (For Prospectors and Miners)

A Class A work permit is issued to individuals intending to engage in prospecting or mining activities in Kenya, either independently or in partnership. The applicant must meet the following criteria:

Hold a valid prospecting or mining license or right required for the activities.
Have sufficient capital and resources fully at their disposal for the venture.
Demonstrate that their engagement in prospecting or mining will benefit Kenya.

Requirements for Application:

A duly completed and signed Form 25 (online form). Print the form at the end of the application. You can also view previous applications through your account.
Two copies of a detailed and signed cover letter from the employer, organization, or applicant, addressed to the Director of Immigration Services.
Copies of a valid national passport.
Two recent passport-sized colored photos (required for both new applications and renewals).
Proof of current immigration status if the applicant is already in Kenya.
Any documents in foreign languages must be translated into English by an authorized institution, Public Notary, or the relevant Embassy.
Copies of any previously held permits or passes.
Valid licenses and registrations for prospecting or mining.
Proof of available investment capital of at least USD 100,000.
Current prospecting license (for renewals).
Copy of current license and PIN certificate (for renewals).
Signed and audited accounts from the previous year (for renewals).
Non-refundable processing fee of Ksh 10,000.
Valid Tax Compliance Certificates: Organization certificate for new cases; both organization and individual certificates for renewals.
Copy of the application checklist (download here).

Fee

Processing fees (Non refundable) KES 20,000
Issuance Fees (Payable upon approval) KES 500,000 Per year

New or Renewal of Work Permit (Class B)

Application for Permit Class B: (For Agriculture and Animal Husbandry)

A Class B permit is issued to individuals intending to engage in agriculture or animal husbandry in Kenya, either independently or in partnership. Applicants must meet the following criteria:

Have acquired or obtained all necessary permissions to acquire land of sufficient size and suitability for the intended business.
Have sufficient capital and resources fully at their disposal for the venture.
Demonstrate that their business engagement will benefit Kenya.

Important Information Before You Apply:
Before applying, ensure that you meet the qualifications and have all the required documents. Incomplete or incorrect applications will not be processed.

Who Qualifies for a Class B Permit? An applicant who:

Has acquired, or has received all necessary permissions to acquire, an interest in land of adequate size and suitability for agricultural or animal husbandry purposes.
Has sufficient capital and resources at their full disposal for the project.
Whose business activities will positively contribute to Kenya’s economy.

Requirements for Application:

A duly completed and signed Form 25 (online form). Print the form at the end of the application, or access previous applications through your account.
Two copies of a detailed and signed cover letter from the company/organization, addressed to the Director of Immigration Services.
Copy of a valid national passport.
Two recent passport-sized colored photos (for both new applications and renewals).
Proof of current immigration status if the applicant is already in Kenya.
Documents in foreign languages must be translated into English by an authorized institution, Public Notary, or the relevant Embassy.
Copies of any previously held permits or passes.
Proof of land ownership or leasehold agreement.
Proof of available capital of at least USD 100,000.
Clearance or relevant licenses from applicable regulatory bodies.
Copy of the applicant’s PIN certificate.
Signed and audited financial accounts for the past year (for renewals).
A valid tax compliance certificate from the Kenya Revenue Authority (KRA) (for renewals).
Copy of the application checklist (download here).

Fee

Processing fees (Non refundable) KES 20,000
Issuance Fees (Payable upon approval) KES 250,000 Per year

New or Renewal of Work Permit (Class C)

Application for Permit Class C: (For Members of Prescribed Professions)

A Class C permit is issued to individuals who are members of a prescribed profession and intend to practice that profession in Kenya, either independently or in partnership. Applicants must meet the following criteria:

Possess the necessary qualifications as outlined in the Eighth Schedule of The Kenya Citizenship and Immigration Regulations, 2012.
Have sufficient capital and resources fully at their disposal.
Be registered with a professional body, association, or institute in their country of origin.
Demonstrate that their practice will be beneficial to Kenya.

Prescribed Professions
The professions covered under the Kenya Citizenship and Immigration Regulations, 2012 include:

Medical professionals
Dentists
Legal professionals
Surveyors
Estate agents
Valuers and land agents
Architects or quantity surveyors
Pharmacists
Veterinary surgeons
Engineers
Nurses
Physiotherapists
Accountants
Chartered secretaries
Actuaries
Scientists
Information and communication technology experts

Important Information Before You Apply:
Ensure that you meet the qualifications and have the required documents. Incomplete or incorrect applications will not be processed.

Who Qualifies for a Class C Permit?
An applicant who:

Possesses the prescribed qualifications for their profession.
Has sufficient capital and resources at their full disposal.
Is registered with the professional body, association, or institute to which they belong in their home country.
Demonstrates that their professional practice will benefit Kenya.

Requirements for Application:

A duly completed and signed Form 25 (online form). Print the form at the end of the application, or access previous applications through your account.
Two copies of a detailed and signed cover letter from the employer, organization, or applicant, addressed to the Director of Immigration Services.
Copy of a valid national passport.
Two recent passport-sized colored photos (required for both new applications and renewals).
Proof of current immigration status if the applicant is already in Kenya.
Documents in foreign languages must be translated into English by an authorized institution, Public Notary, or the relevant Embassy.
Copies of any previously held permits or passes.
Tax compliance certificate from the Kenya Revenue Authority (KRA) (for renewals).
Proof of membership in a prescribed professional body.
Copies of certified academic and professional certificates.
A detailed curriculum vitae (CV).
Copy of the applicant’s PIN certificate.
Copy of the application checklist (download here).

Fee

Processing fees (Non refundable) KES 20,000
Issuance Fees (Payable upon approval) KES 250,000 Per year

New or Renewal of Work Permit (Class D)

Application for Permit Class D: (For Specific Employment)

A Class D permit is issued to individuals offered specific employment by a particular employer, the Government of Kenya, or another authority under the government’s control. This also includes those engaged under an approved technical aid scheme with the United Nations or other recognized agencies. The applicant must meet the following conditions:

Possess skills or qualifications not available in Kenya.
The employment must benefit Kenya.

Important Information Before You Apply:
Ensure that you have all the necessary qualifications and documents before starting the application process. Incomplete applications will not be processed.

Who Qualifies for a Class D Permit?
An applicant who:

Has been offered specific employment by an employer, the Government of Kenya, or a recognized organization under an approved technical aid scheme.
Possesses skills or qualifications that are not readily available in Kenya.
Demonstrates that their employment will contribute positively to Kenya.

Requirements for Application:

A duly completed and signed Form 25 (online form). Print the form at the end of the application or access previous applications through your account.
Two copies of a detailed and signed cover letter from the employer/organization, addressed to the Director of Immigration Services.
Copy of a valid national passport.
Two recent passport-sized colored photos (required for both new applications and renewals).
Proof of current immigration status if the applicant is already in Kenya.
Documents in foreign languages must be translated into English by an authorized institution, Public Notary, or the relevant Embassy.
Copies of any previously held permits or passes.
Duly certified copies of academic and professional certificates.
Detailed curriculum vitae (CV).
A duly filled Form 27 (Report on Employment).
Name of the Kenyan understudy.
Certified copies of academic and professional certificates of the Kenyan understudy.
Curriculum vitae (CV) for the Kenyan understudy.
Full contact details (address, email, cell phone) of the Kenyan understudy.
Clearance letter from relevant institutions.
Certificate of company/organization registration.
Copy of the application checklist (download here).

Fee

Processing fees (Non refundable) KES 20,000
Issuance Fees (Payable upon approval) KES 500,000 Per year

New or Renewal of Work Permit (Class F)

Application for Permit Class F: (For Specific Manufacturing Business)

A Class F permit is issued to individuals who intend to engage in specific manufacturing activities in Kenya, either alone or in partnership. Applicants must meet the following criteria:

Have obtained any necessary licenses, registrations, or permissions required for the manufacturing business.
Possess sufficient capital and resources to engage in the manufacturing sector.
Demonstrate that their manufacturing activities will benefit Kenya.

Important Information Before You Apply:
Ensure that you have all required licenses and permissions before applying. Incomplete applications will not be accepted.

Who Qualifies for a Class F Permit?
An applicant who:

Has obtained all the necessary licenses, registrations, and permissions for the manufacturing business.
Has sufficient capital and resources fully at their disposal.
Demonstrates that their engagement in the manufacturing business will benefit Kenya.

Requirements for Application:

A duly completed and signed Form 25 (online form). Print the form at the end of the application, or access previous applications through your account.
Two copies of a detailed and signed cover letter from the company or organization, addressed to the Director of Immigration Services.
Copy of a valid national passport.
Two recent passport-sized colored photos (required for both new applications and renewals).
Proof of current immigration status if the applicant is already in Kenya.
Documents in foreign languages must be translated into English by an authorized institution, Public Notary, or the relevant Embassy.
Copies of any previously held permits or passes.
Copy of the license held for manufacturing activities.
Proof of funds for investment in manufacturing (at least USD 100,000).
Registration certificate of the company.
Memorandum of Understanding and Articles of Association.
Signed audited accounts for the last one year (for renewals).
Copy of the applicant’s PIN certificate.
Tax compliance certificate from the Kenya Revenue Authority (KRA) (for renewals).
Certificate of Incorporation of the company.
Copy of the application checklist (download here).

Fee

Processing fees (Non refundable) KES 20,000
Issuance Fees (Payable upon approval) KES 250,000 Per year

New or Renewal of Work Permit (Class G)

Application for Permit Class G: (For Trade, Business, Consultancy, or Non-Prescribed Professions)

A Class G permit is granted to individuals intending to engage in trade, business, consultancy, or a profession (other than a prescribed profession) in Kenya, either alone or in partnership. Applicants must satisfy the following criteria:

Have obtained the necessary licenses, registrations, or permissions for their business or professional activities.
Have sufficient capital and resources at their full disposal for the business or profession.
Demonstrate that their engagement in these activities will benefit Kenya.

Important Information Before You Apply:
Ensure that you have all required documentation and approvals before applying. Incomplete applications will not be processed.

Who Qualifies for a Class G Permit?
An applicant who:

Has obtained all required licenses, registrations, or permissions for the specific trade, business, consultancy, or profession.
Has sufficient capital and resources at their full disposal.
Can demonstrate that their business or professional activities will be beneficial to Kenya.

Requirements for Application:

A duly completed and signed Form 25 (online form). You will print the form at the end of the application process. Previous applications can be accessed through your online account.
Two copies of a detailed and signed cover letter from the company or organization, addressed to the Director of Immigration Services.
Copy of a valid national passport.
Two recent passport-sized colored photos (required for both new applications and renewals).
Proof of current immigration status if already in Kenya.
Documents in foreign languages must be translated into English by an authorized institution, Public Notary, or the relevant Embassy.
Copies of any previously held permits or passes.
Proof of capital investment (at least USD 100,000).
Certificate of incorporation of the company.
Memorandum of Understanding and Articles of Association.
Shareholding certificate (CR12).
Copies of PIN certificates.
Signed audited accounts for the last year (for renewals).
Tax compliance certificate from the Kenya Revenue Authority (KRA) (for renewals).
List of Kenyans already employed by the company (for renewals).
Clearance letter from relevant institutions.
Two copies of the bank statement verification form (for new applications). [Click here to download the verification form].
Proof of offshore transaction receipt or slip for the capital invested.

Fee

Processing fees (Non refundable) KES 20,000
Issuance Fees (Payable upon approval) KES 250,000 Per year

New or Renewal of Work Permit (Class I)

Application for Permit Class I: (For Missionaries and Members of Certain Organizations)

A Class I permit is issued to individuals who are members of institutions registered under the Society’s Act, engaged as missionaries, members of a company limited by guarantee, or members of a trust registered under the Trustees Act, provided these entities are approved by the Government of Kenya. The presence of the applicant in Kenya must be beneficial to the country.

Important Information Before You Apply:
Ensure all documentation is complete and accurate before starting your application. Incomplete applications will not be processed.

Who Qualifies for a Class I Permit?
An applicant who:

Is a member of an institution registered under the Society’s Act and is engaged as a missionary.
Is a member of a company limited by guarantee.
Is a member of a trust registered under the Trustees Act and approved by the Government of Kenya.
Demonstrates that their presence in Kenya will be beneficial to the country.

Requirements for Application:

A duly completed and signed Form 25 (online form). Print the form at the end of the application or access previous applications through your account.
Two copies of a detailed and signed cover letter from the employer or organization, addressed to the Director of Immigration Services.
Copy of a valid national passport.
Two recent passport-sized colored photos (required for both new applications and renewals).
Proof of current immigration status if the applicant is already in Kenya.
Documents in foreign languages must be translated into English by an authorized institution, Public Notary, or the relevant Embassy.
Copies of any previously held permits or passes.
Copy of the registration certificate of the organization.
Certified copies of the applicant’s academic and professional certificates.
Certificate of registration of the organization.

Fee

Processing fees (Non refundable) KES 20,000
Issuance Fees (Payable upon approval) KES 50,000 Per year

New or Renewal of Work Permit (Class K)

Application for Permit Class K: (For Individuals with Assured Annual Income)

A Class K permit is issued to individuals who are at least 35 years old and have an assured annual income of no less than USD 24,000, derived from sources other than employment, trade, business, or profession. This income must either come from sources outside Kenya and be remitted to Kenya or be derived from a pension or annuity payable from sources within Kenya.

Important Information Before You Apply:
Ensure that you meet all eligibility requirements and have all necessary documentation. Incomplete applications will not be processed.

Who Qualifies for a Class K Permit?
An applicant who:

Is at least 35 years old.
Has an assured annual income of at least USD 24,000 from sources other than employment, trade, business, or profession. This income must either be from outside Kenya and remitted to Kenya or from a pension or annuity from within Kenya.
Undertakes not to accept employment, paid or unpaid, or engage in any income-generating activity without a relevant permit.
Demonstrates that their presence in Kenya will be beneficial to the country.

Requirements for Application:

A duly completed and signed Form 25 (online form). Print the form at the end of the application or access previous applications through your account.
Two copies of a detailed and signed cover letter from yourself, addressed to the Director of Immigration Services.
Copy of a valid national passport.
Two recent passport-sized colored photos (required for both new applications and renewals).
Proof of current immigration status if you are already in Kenya.
Documents in foreign languages must be translated into English by an authorized institution, Public Notary, or the relevant Embassy.
Copies of any previously held permits or passes.
Documentary proof of an assured annual income of at least USD 24,000.

Fee

Processing fees (Non refundable) KES 20,000
Issuance Fees (Payable upon approval) KES 250,000 Per year

Application for Permit Class M: (For Refugees and Their Spouses)

A Class M permit is issued to individuals who have been granted refugee status in Kenya under the refugee law of Kenya. It is also available to the spouse of such a refugee who intends to take up employment or engage in a specific occupation, trade, business, or profession.

Important Information Before You Apply:
Ensure you meet all eligibility requirements and have all necessary documentation. Incomplete applications will not be processed.

Who Qualifies for a Class M Permit?
An applicant who:

Has been granted refugee status in Kenya in accordance with the refugee law of Kenya.
Is the spouse of a refugee and intends to take up employment or engage in a specific occupation, trade, business, or profession.

Requirements for Application:

A duly completed and signed Form 25 (online form). Print the form at the end of the application or access previous applications through your account.
Two copies of a detailed and signed cover letter from the employer, organization, or yourself, addressed to the Director of Immigration Services.
Copy of a valid national passport.
Two recent passport-sized colored photos (required for both new applications and renewals).
Proof of current immigration status if you are already in Kenya.
Documents in foreign languages must be translated into English by an authorized institution, Public Notary, or the relevant Embassy.
Copies of any previously held permits or passes.
Recommendation letter from the Department of Refugee Affairs.

Special Pass Application Requirements

A Special Pass is issued under Regulation 34 of the Kenya Citizenship and Immigration Regulations, 2012, for individuals who wish to:

Remain in Kenya temporarily while applying for a review of a decision denying a permit.
Apply for a permit or pass.
Temporarily conduct business, trade, or professional activities.

What You Need to Know Before You Apply: Ensure you understand the purpose and limitations of the Special Pass. Incomplete applications or failure to comply with regulations can result in delays or denial of your application.

Who Qualifies for a Special Pass? Any foreign national who:

Needs to remain in Kenya temporarily to apply for a review of a decision denying a permit.
Is applying for a permit or pass.
Intends to temporarily conduct business, trade, or professional activities.

Requirements for Application:

A duly completed and signed Form 32 (Special Pass online application form). Print the form at the end of your application or reprint it from the “My Applications” section [here](eFNS link).
A detailed and signed cover letter addressed to the Director of Immigration Services from the applicant or organization.
Two recent passport-sized color photos.
A copy of the passport (bio-data page).
Proof of current immigration status if already in Kenya.
Copy of the Registration Certificate for the organization, if applicable.
Certified copies of academic and professional certificates.
Documents in foreign languages must be translated into English by an authorized institution, Public Notary, or relevant Embassy.
Copies of any previously held permits or passes.
An official receipt or acknowledgment for those awaiting permit processing.
Clearance letter from relevant authorities.

Fee

Processing fees: Nil
Issuance Fees (Payable upon approval) :Special Pass: $ 200 per month or part thereof, Prohibited Immigrant/inadmissable persons: Kshs 100,000 per month or part thereof

Student/Internship/Research Pass Application Requirements

Kenya Student Pass

A Student Pass is issued to foreign students who wish to pursue their education in approved educational or training institutions in Kenya. The applicant must be accepted by an approved institution.

Who Qualifies?

Foreign students accepted or admitted to educational or training institutions in Kenya.

Requirements:

Form 30: Duly filled, signed, and stamped by the institution’s authorized personnel. Print the form at the end of your application. For reprints, access the “My Applications” section [here](eFNS link).
Cover Letter: Detailed and signed, addressed to the Director of Immigration Services from the institution. It should indicate the course to be pursued and its duration.
Commitment Letter: Signed by the sponsor (for new and renewal cases).
Sponsor’s Passport: A copy of the national passport of the sponsor.
Proof of Funds: For self-sponsored students.
Consent Letter: For minors, a consent letter from a parent or guardian.
Parent’s Documents: Copy of the parent’s national passport and birth certificate of the minor to prove relationship.
Passport Copy: Copy of a valid national passport (bio-data page).
Current Immigration Status: If the student is already in the country.
Photos: Two recent passport-sized color photos.
Academic Certificates: Duly certified copies for those joining tertiary institutions and universities.
Translation: Documents in foreign languages must be translated into English by an authorized institution, Public Notary, or Embassy.
School Registration Certificate: Copy of the institution’s registration certificate from the Ministry of Education (new cases).
Clearance Letter: From the Department of Refugee Affairs for refugees.
Progress Reports/Transcripts: Certified copies for renewal cases.
Previous Student Pass: Copy of any previous student pass held (for renewals).
Police Clearance Certificate: From the country of origin or, if a resident, from the Kenya Police Service.

Kenya Internship/Research Pass

An Internship/Research Pass is issued to individuals seeking to undertake an internship or academic research in Kenya. The applicant must be accepted by a Kenyan institution for the internship or research.

Who Qualifies?

Individuals accepted for an internship or academic research in Kenya. Interns or researchers can stay for up to twelve months.

Requirements:

Form 30: Duly filled, signed, and stamped by the institution’s authorized personnel. Print the form at the end of your application. For reprints, access the “My Applications” section [here](eFNS link).
Cover Letter: Detailed and signed, addressed to the Director of Immigration Services from the institution. It should indicate the internship or research topic and its duration.
Passport Copy: A copy of a valid national passport (bio-data page).
Current Immigration Status: If already in the country.
Photos: Two recent passport-sized color photos.
Academic Certificates and CV: Duly certified copies of academic certificates and CV.
Translation: Documents in foreign languages must be translated into English by an authorized institution, Public Notary, or Embassy.
Research Permit: Copy of the research permit from the National Council for Science and Technology (for research programs).
Minor’s Documentation: For minors, attach a copy of the parent’s Kenyan residence permit if not a boarder.
Police Clearance Certificate: From the country of origin or, if a resident, from the Kenya Police Service.

Fee

Processing fees :Nil
Issuance Fees (Payable upon approval): Research : $100 per year , Student Pass: $100 per year, and Internship: $100 per year

Dependant Pass Application Requirements

A Dependant Pass is issued to individuals who are dependants of persons lawfully entitled to enter Kenya. This includes the spouse, parent, or guardian of a Kenya citizen, permit holder, exempted person, or permanent resident.

Who Qualifies?

Dependants of:
- Kenya citizens
- Permit holders
- Exempted persons
- Permanent residents

Requirements:

Form 28: Duly filled and signed online application form for a Dependant Pass. Print the form at the end of the application. For reprints, access the “My Applications” section [here](eFNS link).
Cover Letter: Detailed and signed, addressed to the Director of Immigration Services from the applicant.
Photographs: Two recent passport-sized colored photos of the dependant.
Passport/ID Copy:
- Copy of a valid national passport or National ID (bio-data page) for both the applicant and the dependant.
Evidence of Relationship:
- Duly certified copies of relevant documents such as marriage certificate, birth certificate, or death certificate to prove the relationship.
Proof of Income:
- Evidence of sufficient and assured income to sustain both the applicant and the dependant.
Translation of Documents:
- Documents in foreign languages must be translated into English by an authorized institution, Public Notary, or Embassy.
Proof of Dependency:
- Documentary proof of any condition leading to dependency, such as medical condition, disability, or age.
Permit Copy:
- A valid copy of the permit for those applicants holding a work permit (at least six months prior to the date of application).

Fee

Processing fees:Nil
Issuance Fees (Payable upon approval):Dependant Pass for spouse and children of a Kenyan Citizen: Kshs20,000, and Dependant Pass for Work Permit and Permanent Residents holders: Kshs10,000

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