Immigration & Work Permits
Navigate Kenya's immigration requirements with confidence. Expert guidance for work permits, visas, and residency applications.
Immigration Challenges
Navigating Kenya's immigration system can be confusing. Requirements change, applications get delayed, and one mistake can derail your plans.
Permit Categories
"Which work permit class do I need?"
Document Requirements
"What documents are needed for the application?"
Processing Times
"How long will the process take?"
Renewals & Extensions
"Can I extend my current permit?"
Family Relocation
"Can my spouse and children come with me?"
Our Expertise
End-to-end immigration services from application to approval. We handle the complexity so you can focus on your move to Kenya.
- Complete application preparation
- Document authentication
- Immigration liaison services
- Application tracking & updates
Work Permits
Legally work in Kenya with the correct permit. We guide employers and employees through the work permit application process.
Our Services Include:
- Permit class assessment
- Document checklist preparation
- Application form completion
- Immigration Department liaison
- Status tracking & updates
- Renewal processing
Work Permit Classes
Kenya has different work permit classes for different purposes.
General Employment
For professionals employed by Kenyan companies in roles where local expertise is unavailable.
- 2-year validity
- Renewable
- Employment-based
Specific Trade/Occupation
For foreigners with specific skills or trades needed in Kenya.
- 2-year validity
- Trade-specific
- Self-employment option
Specific Employment
For employment with a specific employer for a defined role.
- 3-year validity
- Employer-specific
- Transferable
Investor/Director
For foreign investors starting or managing businesses in Kenya.
- 3-year validity
- Investment-based
- Multiple dependents
Other Immigration Services
Special Pass
Short-term authorization to work while your work permit is being processed. Valid for up to 3 months, renewable once.
- Quick processing (7-14 days)
- Bridge while awaiting permit
- Limited validity
- Can work legally
Dependent Pass
Allows family members (spouse and children) of work permit holders to reside in Kenya legally.
- Spouse & children under 18
- Tied to main permit
- Study allowed for children
- Work endorsement available
Permanent Residence
Long-term residency status for foreigners who have lived in Kenya continuously for at least 7 years.
- 7 years residency required
- Good character certificate
- No work permit needed
- Renewable every 5 years
Visa Applications
Various visa categories including business visas, tourist visas, and transit visas for entry into Kenya.
- Single & multiple entry
- Business visas
- Tourist visas
- East Africa Tourist Visa
"Our company needed to bring in specialized engineers from abroad. Mwangi Kiai LLP handled all the work permit applications smoothly, keeping us informed at every step. All permits were approved within the expected timeframe."
How We Work
A streamlined approach to immigration applications.
Consultation
We assess your situation and recommend the appropriate permit category.
Document Preparation
We compile and verify all required documents for your application.
Submission & Tracking
We submit to Immigration and track your application progress.
Permit Collection
Once approved, we collect your permit and brief you on conditions.
Common Questions
Standard work permit processing takes 4-8 weeks after submission of complete documents. Special passes can be obtained in 7-14 days for urgent cases where you need to start work immediately.
No, it is illegal to work in Kenya on a tourist visa. You must obtain a valid work permit or special pass before engaging in any employment. Working without proper authorization can result in deportation and future entry bans.
Work permit fees vary by class. Class A and D permits cost approximately KES 200,000 for 2 years. Class G costs about KES 100,000 per year. Class I (Investor) costs KES 100,000 per year. These fees are subject to change.
Yes, your spouse and children under 18 can apply for dependent passes. These are tied to your main work permit and are valid for the same period. Dependents can study in Kenya, and spouses can apply for work endorsement to take up employment.
Ready to Start Your Immigration Journey?
Expert guidance through Kenya's immigration requirements.