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Kenya replaced visa-on-arrival with a universal ETA in 2024 for all nationalities (including East African Community members). Costs USD 30, applied online before travel; most approved within 3 business days.
For foreign employees working for Kenyan companies; employer must demonstrate a Kenyan citizen could not fill the role. Includes a dependent pass for spouses and children; renewable in 2-year increments.
For foreign investors establishing or running a business in Kenya. Requires a minimum investment of KES 5 million (approx. USD 35,000) and a sound business plan. Renewable and can lead to permanent residency.
Short-term authorization allowing a foreign national to work while a formal work permit application is being processed. Renewable up to a maximum of 6 months total; used as a bridge permit only.
Kenya introduced an Electronic Travel Authorization (ETA) system in 2024 replacing traditional visas for most nationalities, making entry more streamlined. Long-term stays are facilitated through the Class G Work Permit, Class I Investment Permit, or a Special Pass for those awaiting permit approval. The Kenyan e-citizen portal handles most applications online.
Kenya issues Class G Work Permits tied to a specific employer, and the employer must demonstrate that no qualified Kenyan citizen was available for the role. Class M permits are available for self-employed foreigners running their own businesses. Intra-company transferees and NGO workers have dedicated permit classes (Class D and Class K respectively).
Dependents of work permit holders can obtain a Class I (Dependent Pass) which allows residence but not employment. Spouses wishing to work must apply for their own work permit. The process requires a marriage certificate and proof of the primary permit holder's status.
Kenya taxes residents on worldwide income using a PAYE system with rates from 10% to 35%. Non-residents are taxed only on Kenyan-sourced income at a flat rate of 20-30% depending on income type. Kenya has tax treaties with about 15 countries. The digital services tax and capital gains tax (5%) apply to relevant transactions.
Kenya's public healthcare system is limited and not suitable for most expats. Nairobi's private hospitals (Aga Khan Hospital, Nairobi Hospital, MP Shah) offer good quality care. International health insurance with medical evacuation coverage is strongly advised for all expats, especially outside Nairobi.
Kenya has a dynamic banking sector led by Equity Bank, KCB, Standard Chartered, and Barclays Kenya. Opening an account requires a passport, Kenyan PIN certificate, and proof of address. M-Pesa mobile money is ubiquitous and useful for daily transactions. Banking is straightforward for legal residents.
Kenya's Class I Investment Permit is available to foreign investors who invest a minimum of KES 10 million (approximately $77,000 USD) in a registered Kenyan company. There is no formal golden visa or passive investment residency program. Larger investors may qualify for permanent residence after 5+ years of continuous lawful residence.
| Program | Min. Investment | Residency | Citizenship |
|---|---|---|---|
| Class I Investment Permit | $77k+ | ✓ Yes | No |