Entry Permits

In the last few years, Kenya has issued strict immigration laws for foreigners to obtain work permits and visas for working in the Country. From submitting applications to limiting the number of hired foreign employees in favour of Kenyans, the native Companies have to abide by the Country’s policies. This can make it a more tedious process for people to start hiring a foreign team.

To legally work in Kenya, one must have an approved work permit or a work visa. This essentially means that, the person must have an approved work permit and visa before entering the country for work. Skilled people who want to work or invest in Kenya have to apply for permits that are generally based on the skills or education background. The various classes of permit as provided under the enabling regulations include:

v Class A – This work permit is issued to persons who intend to engage in prospecting for minerals or mining.

v Class B - This work permit is issued to people who intend to invest in Agriculture or Animal Husbandry.

v Class C – This permit is issued to persons wishing to practice certain prescribed professions, e.g. Journalism, Doctor, etc. One must have proof of membership to the prescribed profession here in Kenya including the necessary licenses.

v Class D - This is issued to people offered a specific role by a specific employer who is qualified to take that employment.  

v  Class F – Issued to investors in the manufacturing sector.

v Class G - This work permit is issued to investors involved in a specific trade, business, or consultancy.

v Class I – This permit is issued to a member of a missionary society (church) approved by the Government of Kenya and whose presence is beneficial to the country.

v Class K – This permit is issued to a foreign national who has an assured income derived from multiple sources outside. The foreign national should also undertake to not accept paid employment of any other kind.  One must be at least 35 years of age to apply for this permit.

v Class M - This work permit is issued to the Conventional Refugees.