How To Apply For A Work Permit In Kenya

This is a guide on how to apply for a work permit in Kenya. Foreign nationals who wish to work in Kenya are required by the law to obtain a work permit. A work permit is a document issued by the director of immigration services to enable foreign nationals to engage actively in trade, professional employment, farming, missionary activities and business.

There are different types of permits and we have simplified the application process for each of them in the table below complete with the requirements.

1. Class A: (For prospecting and miners.)

This permit is issued to a person who intends to engage, whether alone or in partnership, in prospecting for minerals or mining in Kenya.

• • Duly filled and signed Form 25 online form. You will print out the form at the end of the application. You can also access your previous applications by clicking here
  • Two copies of detailed and signed cover letter from the employer/organization addressed to the Director of Immigration Services
  • Copy of a valid national passport
  • Two(2) recent passport size coloured photos (for both new and renewal)
  • Current Immigration status if in the country
  • Documents in foreign languages should be translated into English by either the Embassy, Public Notary, or authorized /recognized institution
  • Copy of any previous permit(s) and or pass (es) held
  • Necessary licenses and registrations to prospect for minerals to mine.
  • Proof of funds to invest, at least USD 100,000/=
  • Current License held for prospecting minerals (for renewals
  • Copy of PIN certificate
  • Current, Signed audited accounts for the last 1 year (for renewals)
  • Tax compliance certificate from KRA(for renewals)
  • Copy of Checklist. click here to download
  • • Create a login account within the Government of Kenya Single Sign-On portal
    • Log in using the account you have created above to access eFNS portal
    • Once logged in the eFNS portal, select the “Apply now” Link
    • Click on the “Submit Applications” tab and select the Permit Issuance/Renewal tab. If you are already logged in to eFNS, you can click here to make an application.
    • After completing the application form, an invoice will be generated which you can see by clicking on the “Dashboard” then “Payments” Tab. If you have already logged in eFNS, you can click here to make a payment.
    • If unable to pay using any of the online modes, print your application form by clicking on “Dashboard” then “My Applications” Tab (or click here to print your application). Present your application with all the requirements at the Immigration headquarters (Nyayo house) for processing.
    • You shall receive automatic notifications via email and on your online account about the progress of your application.

    2. Class B: (Agriculture and animal husbandry (KEP/B)

    This permit is issued to a person who intends to engage, whether alone or in partnership, in the business of agriculture or animal husbandry in Kenya.

    • Duly filled and signed Form 25 online form. You will print out the form at the end of the application. You can also access your previous applications by clicking here
    • Two copies of detailed and signed cover letter from the Company/organization addressed to the Director of Immigration Services
    • Copy of a valid national passport
    • Two(2) recent passport size coloured photos (for both new and renewal)
    • Current Immigration status if in the country
    • Documents in foreign languages should be translated into English by either the Embassy, Public Notary, or authorized /recognized institution
    • Copy of any previous permit(s) and or pass (es) held
    • Proof of land ownership/leasehold
    • Proof of capital availability (USD 100,000)
    • Clearance/license from relevant bodies
    • Copy of PIN certificate
    • Current, Signed audited accounts for the last 1 year (for renewals)
    • Tax compliance certificate from KRA(for renewals)
    • Copy of Checklist. click here to download
    • Create a login account within the Government of Kenya Single Sign-On portal
    • Log in using the account you have created above to access eFNS portal
    • Once logged in the eFNS portal, select the “Apply now” Link
    • Click on the “Submit Applications” tab and select the Permit Issuance/Renewal tab. If you are already logged in to eFNS, you can click here to make an application.
    • After completing the application form, an invoice will be generated which you can see by clicking on the “Dashboard” then “Payments” Tab. If you have already logged in eFNS, you can click here to make a payment.
    • If unable to pay using any of the online modes, print your application form by clicking on “Dashboard” then “My Applications” Tab (If you have already logged in eFNS, you can click here to print your application). Present your application with all the requirements at the Immigration headquarters (Nyayo house), for payments and processing.

    3.Class C: (Prescribed profession (KEP/C)

    This permit is issued to a person who is a member of a prescribed profession who intends to practice that profession, whether alone or in partnership, in Kenya.

    • Duly filled and signed Form 25 online form. You will print out the form at the end of the application. You can also access your previous applications by clicking here
    • Two copies of detailed and signed cover letter from the employer/organization addressed to the Director of Immigration Services
    • Copy of a valid national passport
    • Two(2) recent passport size coloured photos (for both new and renewal)
    • Current Immigration status if in the country
    • Documents in foreign languages should be translated into English by either the Embassy, Public Notary, or authorized /recognized institution
    • Copy of any previous permit(s) and or pass (es) held
    • Tax compliance certificate from KRA (for renewals)
    • Proof of membership to a prescribed profession
    • Copies of certified academic and professional certificates
    • Curriculum vitae (CV)
    • Copy of PIN certificate
    • Copy of Checklist. click here to download
    • Create a login account within the Government of Kenya Single Sign-On portal
    • Log in using the account you have created above to access eFNS portal
    • Once logged in the eFNS portal, select the “Apply now” Link
    • Click on the “Submit Applications” tab and select the Permit Issuance/Renewal tab. If you are already logged in to eFNS, you can click here to make an application.
    • After completing the application form, an invoice will be generated which you can see by clicking on the “Dashboard” then “Payments” Tab. If you have already logged in eFNS, you can click here to make a payment.
    • If unable to pay using any of the online modes, print your application form by clicking on “Dashboard” then “My Applications” Tab (or click here to print your application). Present your application with all the requirements at the Immigration headquarters (Nyayo house), for payments and processing.

    4. Class D: (Employment (KEP/D)

    This permit is issued to a person who is offered specific employment by a specific employer, the government of Kenya or any other person or authority under the control of the Government or an approved technical aid scheme under the United Nations Organization or some other approved Agency who is in possession of skills or qualifications that are not available in Kenya and whose engagement in that employment will be of benefit to Kenya.

    • Duly filled and signed Form 25 – Issuance/permit renewal online form. You will print out the form at the end of the application. You can also access your previous applications by clicking here
    • Two copies of detailed and signed cover letter from the employer/organization/ self, addressed to the Director of Immigration Services
    • Copy of a valid national passport
    • Two(2) recent passport size coloured photos (for both new and renewal)
    • Current Immigration status if in the country
    • Documents in foreign languages should be translated into English by either the Embassy, Public Notary, or authorized /recognized institution
    • Copy of any previous permit(s) and or pass (es) held
    • Duly certified copies of academic and professional certificates.
    • Curriculum vitae.
    • Duly filled Form 27(Report on Employment)
    • Name of the Kenyan understudy
    • Certified copies of academic/professional certificates of the Kenyan understudy
    • Curriculum vitae (CV) for the Kenyan understudy.
    • Full contact-address, email, cell phone, of the Kenyan understudy
    • Clearance letter from relevant institutions.
    • Certificate of company/organization registration.
    • Copy of Checklist. click here to download
    • • Create a login account within the Government of Kenya Single Sign-On portal
      • Log in using the account you have created above to access eFNS portal
      • Once logged in the eFNS portal, select the “Apply now” Link
      • Click on the “Submit Applications” tab and select the Permit Issuance/Renewal tab. If you are already logged in to eFNS, you can click here to make an application.
      • After completing the application form, an invoice will be generated which you can see by clicking on the “Dashboard” then “Payments” Tab. If you have already logged in eFNS, you can click here to make a payment.
      • If unable to pay using any of the online modes, print your application form by clicking on “Dashboard” then “My Applications” Tab (If you have already logged in eFNS, you can click here to print your application). Present your application with all the requirements at the Immigration headquarters(Nyayo house), for payments and processing.

      5.Class F: (Specific manufacturing(KEP/F)

      This permit is issued to a person who intends to engage, whether alone or in partnership, in specific manufacture in Kenya.

      • Duly filled and signed Form 25 online form. You will print out the form at the end of the application. You can also access your previous applications by clicking here
      • Two copies of detailed and signed cover letter from the Company/organization addressed to the Director of Immigration Services
      • Copy of a valid national passport
      • Two(2) recent passport size coloured photos (for both new and renewal)
      • Current Immigration status if in the country
      • Documents in foreign languages should be translated into English by either the Embassy, Public Notary, or authorized /recognized institution
      • Copy of any previous permit(s) and or pass (es) held
      • Copy of license held
      • Proof of funds for investment (manufacturing) at least USD 100,000)
      • Registration certificate of the Company
      • Memorandum of Understanding
      • Articles of Association
      • Signed audited accounts for the last 1 year (for renewals)
      • Copy of PIN certificate
      • Tax compliance certificate from KRA (for renewals)
      • Certificate of Incorporation of the company
      • Copy of Checklist. click here to download
      • • Create a login account within the Government of Kenya Single Sign-On portal
        • Log in using the account you have created above to access eFNS portal
        • Once logged in the eFNS portal, select the “Apply now” Link
        • Click on the “Submit Applications” tab and select the Permit Issuance/Renewal tab. If you are already logged in to eFNS, you can click here to make an application.
        • After completing the application form, an invoice will be generated which you can see by clicking on the “Dashboard” then “Payments” Tab. If you have already logged in eFNS, you can click here to make a payment.
        • If unable to pay using any of the online modes, print your application form by clicking on “Dashboard” then “My Applications” Tab (Or click here to print your application). Present your application with all the requirements at the Immigration headquarters (Nyayo house), for payments and processing.

        6. Class G: (Specific trade, business or consultancy (KEP/G)

        This permit is issued to a person who intends to engage, whether alone or in partnership, in a specific trade, business, consultancy or profession (other than a prescribed profession) in Kenya.

        • • • Duly filled and signed Form 25 online form. You will print out the form at the end of the application. You can also access your previous applications by clicking here
            • Two copies of detailed and signed cover letter from the Company/organization addressed to the Director of Immigration Services
            • Copy of a valid national passport
            • Two(2) recent passport size coloured photos (for both new and renewal)
            • Current Immigration status if in the country
            • Documents in foreign languages should be translated into English by either the Embassy, Public Notary, or authorized /recognized institution
            • Copy of any previous permit(s) and or pass (es) held
            • Documentary proof of capital to be invested at least USD 100,000
            • Certificate of incorporation of the company
            • Memorandum of understanding
            • Articles of association
            • Shareholding certificate (CR 12)
            • Copies of PIN certificate
            • Signed audited accounts for the last 1 year (for renewals)
            • Tax compliance certificate from KRA (for renewals)
            • List of Kenyans already employed (for renewals)
            • Clearance letter from relevant institutions.
            • Two copies of bank statement verification form (For new cases). Click here to download the verification form.
            • Provide proof of offshore transaction receipt/slip.
            • Copy of Checklist. click here to download
            • • Create a login account within the Government of Kenya Single Sign-On portal
              • Log in using the account you have created above to access eFNS portal
              • Once logged in the eFNS portal, select the “Apply now” Link
              • Click on the “Submit Applications” tab and select the Permit Issuance/Renewal tab. If you are already logged in to eFNS, you can click here to make an application.
              • After completing the application form, an invoice will be generated which you can see by clicking on the “Dashboard” then “Payments” Tab. If you have already logged in eFNS, you can click here to make a payment.
              • If unable to pay using any of the online modes, print your application form by clicking on “Dashboard” then “My Applications” Tab (or click here to print your application). Present your application with all the requirements at the Immigration headquarters(Nyayo house), for payments and processing.

              7.Class I: (Approved religious or charitable activities (KEP/I)

              This permit is issued to a who is a member of an institution registered under the Society’s Act who is engaged as a missionary, Member of a company limited by guarantee, Member of a trust registered under the Trustees Act and is approved by the Government of Kenya, and whose presence in Kenya will be of benefit to Kenya.

              • Duly filled and signed Form 25 online form. You will print out the form at the end of the application. You can also access your previous applications by clicking here
              • Two copies of detailed and signed cover letter from the employer/organization addressed to the Director of Immigration Services
              • Copy of a valid national passport
              • Two(2) recent passport size coloured photos (for both new and renewal)
              • Current Immigration status if in the country
              • Documents in foreign languages should be translated into English by either the Embassy, Public Notary, or authorized /recognized institution
              • Copy of any previous permit(s) and or pass (es) held
              • Copy of registration certificate of the organization
              • Certified copies of academic and professional certificates of the applicant
              • Certificate of registration of the organization.
              • Copy of Checklist. click here to download
              • Create a login account within the Government of Kenya Single Sign-On the portal
              • Log in using the account you have created above to access eFNS portal
              • Once logged in the eFNS portal, select the “Apply now” Link
              • Click on the “Submit Applications” tab and select the Permit Issuance/Renewal tab. If you are already logged in to eFNS, you can click here to make an application.
              • After completing the application form, an invoice will be generated which you can see by clicking on the “Dashboard” then “Payments” Tab. If you have already logged in eFNS, you can click here to make a payment.
              • If unable to pay using any of the online modes, print your application form by clicking on “Dashboard” then “My Applications” Tab (or click here to print your application). Present your application with all the requirements at the Immigration headquarters(Nyayo house), for payments and processing.

              8.Class K: (Ordinary residents(KEP/K)

              This permit is issued to a person who is not less than 35 years of age, has in his own right and at his full and free disposition an assured annual income of not less than USD 24,000 amount that is derived from sources other than any such employment, occupation, trade, business or profession as is referred to in the description of any of the classes specified in this Schedule, and being an income that either; Is derived from sources outside, and will be remitted to Kenya; or Is derived from pension or annuity payable from, sources in Kenya and whose presence in Kenya will be of benefit to Kenya.

              • • • Duly filled and signed Form 25 online form. You will print out the form at the end of the application. You can also access your previous applications by clicking here
                  • Two copies of detailed and signed cover letter from self, addressed to the Director of Immigration Services
                  • Copy of a valid national passport
                  • Two(2) recent passport size coloured photos (for both new and renewal)
                  • Current Immigration status if in the country
                  • Documents in foreign languages should be translated into English by either the Embassy, Public Notary, or authorized /recognized institution
                  • Copy of any previous permit(s) and or pass (es) held
                  • Documentary proof of annual assured income of at least USD 24,000 per annum
                  • • Create a login account within the Government of Kenya Single Sign-On portal
                    • Log in using the account you have created above to access eFNS portal
                    • Once logged in the eFNS portal, select the “Apply now” Link
                    • Click on the “Submit Applications” tab and select the Permit Issuance/Renewal tab. If you are already logged in to eFNS, you can click here to make an application.
                    • After completing the application form, an invoice will be generated which you can see by clicking on the “Dashboard” then “Payments” Tab. If you have already logged in eFNS, you can click here to make a payment.
                    • If unable to pay using any of the online modes, print your application form by clicking on “Dashboard” then “My Applications” Tab (Or click here to print your application). Present your application with all the requirements at the Immigration headquarters (Nyayo house), for payments and processing.

                    9.Class M: (Refugees (KEP/M)

                    This permit is issued to a person who has been granted refugee status in Kenya in accordance with the refugee law of Kenya and any spouse of such a refugee who intends to take up employment or engage in a specific occupation, trade, business or profession.

                    • Duly filled and signed Form 25 online form. You will print out the form at the end of the application. You can also access your previous applications by clicking here
                    • Two copies of detailed and signed cover letter from the employer/organization/ self, addressed to the Director of Immigration Services
                    • Copy of a valid national passport
                    • Two(2) recent passport size coloured photos (for both new and renewal)
                    • Current Immigration status if in the country
                    • Documents in foreign languages should be translated into English by either the Embassy, Public Notary, or authorized /recognized institution
                    • Copy of any previous permit(s) and or pass (es) held
                    • Recommendation letter from the Department of Refugee Affairs
                    • Copy of Checklist. click here to download
                    • Create a login account within the Government of Kenya Single Sign-On portal
                    • Log in using the account you have created above to access eFNS portal
                    • Once logged in the eFNS portal, select the “Apply now” Link
                    • Click on the “Submit Applications” tab and select the Permit Issuance/Renewal tab. If you are already logged in to eFNS, you can click here to make an application.
                    • Print your application form by clicking on “Dashboard” then “My Applications” Tab (If you have already logged in eFNS, you can click here to print your application). Present your application with all the requirements at the Immigration headquarters(Nyayo house) for processing.

                    10. Exemption

                    This permit is issued to any person or class or description of persons, exempted by the cabinet secretary from provisions of obtaining a work permit by notice in the Gazette.

                    • • Duly filled and signed Form 25 – Issuance/permit renewal online form. You will print out the form at the end of the application. You can also access your previous applications by clicking here
                      • Two copies of detailed and signed cover letter from the employer/organization/ self, addressed to the Director of Immigration Services
                      • Copy of a valid national passport
                      • Two(2) recent passport size photos (for both Renewal and New Cases)
                      • Current Immigration status if in the country
                      • Documents in foreign languages should be translated into English by either the Embassy, Public Notary, or authorized /recognized institution
                      • Copy of the Gazette notice
                      • Copy of duly signed host country agreement
                      • Copy of Checklist. click here to download
                      • • Create a login account within the Government of Kenya Single Sign-On portal
                        • Log in using the account you have created above to access eFNS portal
                        • Once logged in the eFNS portal, select the “Apply now” Link
                        • Click on the “Submit Applications” tab and select the Permit Issuance/Renewal tab. If you are already logged in to eFNS, you can click here to make an application.
                        • Print your application form by clicking on “Dashboard” then “My Applications” Tab (If you have already logged in eFNS, you can click here to print your application). Present your application with all the requirements at the Immigration headquarters (Nyayo house), for processing.