Moving to Kenya gives you a fresh mix of warm weather, business opportunities, and a lifestyle that’s surprisingly easy to enjoy once you know how everything works.

But before you settle in, you need the right paperwork — and that usually means getting the correct visa or work permit.

This guide breaks down the process in simple steps.

1. Understanding Kenya’s Visa and Work Permit System

Kenya separates visitors into two groups:

  1. Short-term visitors

  2. People planning to work or stay long-term

Your situation determines what you need.

If you’re coming for a short stay (tourism, business meetings, family visits), you’ll likely use an eVisa. But if you want to work, run a business, volunteer, or stay long-term, you need a work permit or pass.

Before you pick the right option, think about your purpose in Kenya. The immigration office looks at this first before anything else.

2. Types of Visas You Can Apply For

a) Kenya eVisa

Most visitors use the eVisa platform. It’s online, simple, and usually approved in a few days.
You’ll need it if you’re entering Kenya for tourism, conferences, short business trips, or visiting family.

b) East Africa Tourist Visa

If you plan to visit Kenya, Uganda, Tanzania, and any other East African country, you can use just one visa. It saves money and time.

c) Visa on Arrival

Kenya used to allow visa on arrival, but now almost all travelers must apply online before traveling. Check your country’s specific rules, but assume you need the eVisa.

3. Work Permits: What They Are and Who Needs Them

Work permits are for foreigners who:

  • Get a job in Kenya

  • Start a business

  • Join an NGO

  • Transfer to a Kenyan branch of an international company

  • Work as professionals (lawyers, teachers, pilots, engineers, etc.)

You cannot work in Kenya legally without a permit — even if the job is remote. If you’re living in Kenya long-term, immigration may still ask for documentation proving why you’re in the country.

There are 13 classes of Kenyan work permits, but the most common ones for expats are:

  • Class A: Mining and mineral extraction

  • Class D: Employment with a Kenyan employer

  • Class G: Investment/business

  • Class I: NGO/missionary work

  • Class K: Long-term residency without work

  • Special Pass: Temporary work while waiting for a permit

You’ll most likely apply for Class D or Class G.

4. Documents You Need Before Applying

The immigration office expects complete paperwork. Missing documents slow you down. Here’s what you should prepare:

  • Passport (valid for at least 6 months)

  • Passport-size photos

  • Completed work permit form

  • Detailed cover letter (from employer or from you if investing)

  • Company registration documents (for business permits)

  • Tax documents

  • CV and academic certificates

  • Clearance letters (depending on the type of work)

  • Payment receipts

  • Proof of funds (mainly for investors or long-term residents)

If you’re staying while waiting for work permit approval, book accommodation that immigration officers can verify easily.

Many foreigners prefer serviced apartments in safe areas like Westlands, Kilimani, Kileleshwa, and Lavington.
You can browse available furnished apartments on The Skyline Collection’s serviced apartments page.

You can also check specific locations directly:

5. Step-by-Step Guide to Applying for a Work Permit

Step 1: Create an Account on the eCitizen Portal

All Kenyan immigration services now run through eCitizen.
You’ll register with your email, passport details, and basic personal information.

Step 2: Choose the Correct Permit Class

Make sure you pick the correct category. Immigration rejects many applications simply because applicants used the wrong class.

If you’re unsure, match the class to your purpose:

  • Coming for a job → Class D

  • Starting or investing in a business → Class G

  • Working for a charitable or religious organization → Class I

  • Not working but want long-term residency → Class K

Step 3: Upload Your Documents

Scan everything clearly. Blurry images get rejected.

Before you upload, double-check:

  • Photo meets the size requirements

  • Passport scan shows all details

  • Certificates are readable

  • Cover letter is signed

  • Company documents include full registration pages

Step 4: Pay the Application Fee

Fees depend on the permit category. Payment is done directly on eCitizen.

Step 5: Wait for Approval

Approval timelines vary. Sometimes it takes a few weeks. Sometimes a few months. Immigration will update your eCitizen account if they need more information or if your documents have issues.

During this period, many expats use a Special Pass to stay in the country legally while waiting.

6. How to Apply for a Special Pass

A Special Pass lets you work temporarily while waiting for the main permit.

You need:

  • Passport

  • Employer or sponsor letter

  • Application letter

  • Payment

  • Passport photos

You can apply for it through the same eCitizen portal. It’s usually processed faster than a full work permit.

7. How Long Work Permits Take to Process

Here’s a realistic estimate:

  • Class D: 1–3 months

  • Class G: 2–4 months

  • Class I: 1–2 months

  • Class K: 2–3 months

  • Special Pass: 1–4 weeks

Immigration can take longer if:

  • Your documents are incomplete

  • Your employer has missing corporate paperwork

  • You upload low-quality scans

Stay on top of updates on your eCitizen dashboard.

8. Can You Work in Kenya Without a Permit?

Short answer: No.

Kenyan law is strict. If you work without a permit, even remotely, you risk:

  • Fines

  • Deportation

  • Being banned from re-entering Kenya

Always wait for permit approval or apply for a Special Pass.

9. Renewing Your Work Permit

If you plan to stay long-term, start your renewal process early — at least 3 months before expiry.

You’ll repeat most of the steps from the initial application:

  • Updated company documents

  • Recent tax records

  • Updated contract

  • Passport

  • Photos

If you’re living in Nairobi long-term and want convenience, furnished apartments in areas like Kilimani, Westlands, and Lavington make renewals easier because they give you a stable address. You can check listings on the serviced apartments page.

10. Additional Tips for a Smooth Application

a) Keep your documents organized

Immigration officers appreciate neat, complete files. It speeds up approval.

b) Make sure your employer or sponsor is cooperative

Many delays come from employers who submit documents late or forget required attachments.

c) Keep your passport valid

Renew early if it’s about to expire.

d) Save your receipts

You’ll need them if your application goes under review.

e) Stay legally in the country

Use a Special Pass if you need to remain in Kenya during the process.

11. Moving Around Nairobi While Handling Your Paperwork

When you’re dealing with immigration appointments and document submissions, having reliable transport helps. If you’re not ready to buy a car, you can rent one through The Skyline Collection’s car hire service.

You get:

  • Flexible rental periods

  • Well-maintained cars

  • Pickup and drop-off options

This makes it easier to move between immigration offices, banks, work meetings, and accommodation.

12. Final Thoughts

Getting a Kenya work permit is straightforward when you know the steps. You’ll need the right documents, a clear purpose for staying, and a bit of patience during the approval process. But once everything is sorted, living in Kenya becomes much easier. The country is friendly, fast-growing, and full of opportunities.