Introduction

Are you planning to move to Kenya for work, business, remote employment, or education? Whether you’re a foreign investor, skilled employee, digital nomad, student, or missionary, understanding the different types of work permits and passes in Kenya is crucial for lawful entry and residence. Kenya’s immigration system, as governed by the Ministry of Interior and the Directorate of Immigration Services, requires all non-citizens engaging in gainful activity to hold a valid permit or pass.

This guide by our experienced global immigration attorney at F.M Muteti & Co. Advocates explains the latest Kenyan work permit requirements, application process via the eFNS portal, and the updated government fees. It also highlights new permit classes like the Digital Nomad Visa (Class N) and EAC work authorization (Class R) introduced to support modern workforce trends.

If you’re searching for “how to apply for a work permit in Kenya” or “Kenya immigration rules for foreigners,” this article is for you.

What are the Common Work Passes in Kenya?

Special Pass (Short-Term Work/Stay)

A Special Pass allows foreigners to engage in short-term work, business, or stay for a period not exceeding 6 months. It’s commonly used while waiting for a work permit or for brief consultancy assignments.

Requirements:

  1. Application through eFNS
  2. Sponsoring institution or employer
  3. Passport copy, photos, and reason for stay

Government Fee:
KES 15,000 per month
KES 1,000 eFNS application fee

Student Pass

Issued to foreign students enrolled in registered Kenyan educational institutions.

Requirements:

  1. Admission letter from institution
  2. Valid passport
  3. Financial support documents
  4. Passport-size photo

Government Fee:
KES 5,000 per year

Internship / Research Pass

For foreigners undertaking unpaid internships, academic research, or volunteer work in Kenya.

Requirements:

  1. Host institution letter
  2. Proof of activity duration
  3. Passport and academic documents

Government Fee:
Varies (typically KES 10,000–15,000)

Dependant Pass

Issued to spouses and children of valid Kenyan work permit holders or Kenyan citizens.

Requirements:

  1. Relationship evidence (marriage/birth certificates)
  2. Copy of sponsor’s work permit or Kenyan ID
  3. Valid passport of applicant

Government Fees:

  • Spouse/child of citizen: KES 20,000
  • Spouse/child of permit holder: KES 10,000

WORK PERMITS IN KENYA (By Class)

Class A Work Permit: Mining and Mineral Prospecting

This is for foreigners involved in mining, prospecting, or geological exploration.

Requirements:

  1. Valid prospecting or mining license
  2. Evidence of investment capital
  3. Detailed business plan

Government Fees:
KES 500,000 annually
KES 20,000 processing fee

Class B Work Permit: Agriculture and Animal Husbandry

Granted to individuals intending to invest in large-scale farming or livestock production.

Requirements:

  1. Proof of land ownership or lease
  2. Capital investment plan
  3. Local employment projections

Government Fees:
KES 250,000 annually
KES 20,000 processing fee

Class C Work Permit: Prescribed Professions

This applies to professionals such as engineers, doctors, architects, lawyers, etc., licensed to practice in Kenya.

Requirements:

  1. Professional license from Kenyan body
  2. Academic credentials
  3. Contract or job offer

Government Fees:
KES 250,000 annually
KES 20,000 processing fee

Class D Work Permit: Employment Permit

The most common permit for foreign employees hired where no local Kenyan can fill the role.

Requirements:

  1. Valid job offer letter
  2. Detailed job description
  3. Understudy plan for skill transfer
  4. Academic and professional certificates

Government Fees:
KES 500,000 annually
KES 20,000 processing fee

Class F Work Permit: Manufacturing Sector

Designed for foreigners investing in manufacturing, processing, or industrial production in Kenya.

Requirements:

  1. Business registration documents
  2. Investment capital proof
  3. Operational license from relevant authorities

Government Fees:
KES 250,000 annually
KES 20,000 processing fee

Class G Work Permit: Trade, Consultancy, or Business Investment

Issued to individuals intending to engage in business, consultancy, or entrepreneurship.

Requirements:

  1. Minimum investment of USD 100,000 (or equivalent)
  2. Company registration documents
  3. Bank statements and business plan

Government Fees:
KES 250,000 annually
KES 20,000 processing fee

Class I Work Permit: Missionaries and Religious Workers

For religious ministers, missionaries, and charity workers affiliated with registered religious institutions.

Requirements:

  1. Approval from relevant religious authority
  2. Proof of religious or charitable affiliation
  3. Criminal record clearance

Government Fees:
KES 50,000 annually
KES 5,000 processing fee

Class K Work Permit: Retirees and Ordinary Residents

For foreigners over 35 years of age who wish to reside in Kenya without engaging in employment.

Requirements:

  1. Proof of steady income or pension
  2. Bank statements
  3. No intention to work

Government Fees:
KES 250,000 annually
KES 20,000 processing fee

Class M Work Permit: Refugees

Reserved for recognized refugees wishing to engage in gainful employment or business.

Requirements:

  1. UNHCR or Commissioner of Refugees recognition
  2. Work proposal or job offer

Government Fees:
Fees vary based on activity
KES 20,000 processing fee

Class N Work Permit (NEW): Digital Nomads

Introduced in 2024 for remote workers with no local Kenyan employer.

Requirements:

  1. Proof of remote employment
  2. Minimum annual income of USD 24,000
  3. Health and background checks

Government Fees:
USD 1,000 issuance fee
USD 200 processing fee

Class P Work Permit (NEW): UN, Diplomatic, and INGO Staff

Covers staff working for UN agencies, diplomatic missions, or international NGOs, especially in hardship areas.

Requirements:

  1. Employer confirmation letter
  2. Work description
  3. Proof of assignment location

Government Fees:
USD 1,000 issuance fee
USD 200 processing fee

Class Q (NEW): Professionals in Charitable Organizations

Introduced in 2024 to accommodate non-religious professionals working in NGOs and charitable institutions.

Requirements:

  1. NGO or charity registration documents
  2. Job description and contract
  3. Academic and professional documents

Government Fees:
KES 100,000 annually
KES 20,000 processing fee

Class R (NEW): East African Community Nationals

This class allows EAC citizens to live and work in Kenya under regional integration arrangements.

Requirements:

  1. EAC nationality proof
  2. Job offer or investment plan
  3. No criminal record

Government Fees:
Free of charge (no issuance or processing fees)

Conclusion

Navigating the immigration process in Kenya requires careful planning and compliance with the country’s legal requirements. With multiple work permits in Kenya classes tailored to diverse professions and situations, ranging from Class D (employment) to Class N (digital nomads), Kenya continues to open its borders to skilled individuals, investors, and humanitarian workers.

If you’re exploring options to immigrate to Kenya, start a business, or apply for the digital nomad visa in Kenya, understanding the correct work permit class, required documentation, and updated government charges is essential. The eFNS portal makes it easy to apply online, but working with a reputable immigration lawyer in Kenya can help avoid delays and ensure compliance.

Whether you’re seeking a Kenya student pass, retirement permit, or East African Community work permit, Kenya’s immigration framework provides flexibility and opportunity.