All non-Kenyan nationals must have a work/residence permit or exemption issued by the Office of the Director of Immigration before undertaking any form of employment in Kenya, whether paid or unpaid, or establishing long-term residency.
Kenya offers various types of work and residence permits to meet the varied needs of foreign nationals wishing to work or live in the country. These permits include:
Class A Work Permit
This category is for individuals with specific professional skills such as doctors, engineers and ICT (information and communications technology) experts. Class A permits are for professionals who bring specialized knowledge to Kenya.
Class B Work Permit
Foreign investors and business owners wishing to establish or operate a business in Kenya can apply for a Class B work permit. This category encourages foreign direct investment and entrepreneurship within the country.
Class C Work Permit
This category is for employees of companies registered in Kenya. It applies to foreign workers hired by Kenyan businesses and serves to facilitate the recruitment of international talent by local companies.
Class D Work Permit
Class D permits are issued to foreign domestic workers and employees of non-governmental organizations (NGOs) operating in Kenya. These permits are required for those working in a household or in NGO-related positions.
Special Pass
A Special Pass is a temporary permit required for foreigners undertaking short-term business assignments in Kenya, such as assembling or maintaining equipment. It allows individuals to legally carry out certain tasks for a limited period of time.
Student Pass
International students studying in Kenya, including internships and research, are required to obtain a Student Pass. This permit is vital for those seeking educational opportunities in the country at various academic levels.