Can I apply while already in Kenya?

Yes, if you're in Kenya on a valid visitor visa, you can apply and submit biometrics at Nyayo House in Nairobi. However, you cannot work until your permit is approved.

What if my documents aren't in English?

All documents must be in English or officially translated and notarized. Documents from some countries also need apostille certification before submission.

Can I change employers with a work permit?

No, work permits are employer-specific. You must apply for a new permit if changing jobs, even within the same company for different roles.

How long before expiry should I renew?

Apply for renewal 60-90 days before your current permit expires. Late renewals may result in penalties or requirement to leave the country.

How to Apply for a Kenya Work Permit

Apply for a Kenya work permit through the eCitizen portal with your job offer letter, passport, and supporting documents. The process takes 30-60 days and costs $200-500 depending on permit type. Class A permits are for professionals, Class B for skilled workers, and Class C for investors.

Determine your permit category. Class A is for professionals and managers earning over $24,000 annually. Class B is for skilled workers earning $12,000-24,000. Class C is for investors putting in at least $100,000. Class D is for specific skills Kenya needs. Check which category fits your job offer and salary.
Gather required documents. You need your original passport (valid 6+ months), job offer letter from Kenyan employer, academic certificates, professional certificates, police clearance certificate from your home country (dated within 6 months), medical certificate from approved doctor, passport photos, and CV. Get police clearance and medical certificate first as these take longest.
Create eCitizen account and apply online. Register at ecitizen.go.ke using your email and phone number. Navigate to Department of Immigration services, select 'Work Permit Application', choose your category, and upload all documents as PDFs under 2MB each. Fill in personal details, employer information, and job description exactly as stated in your offer letter.
Pay application fees online. Pay $200 for Class B permits, $300 for Class A, and $500 for Class C through the portal using credit card or mobile money. Save your payment receipt. The system generates an application reference number you'll need for tracking.
Submit biometric data. Book an appointment at the nearest Kenyan embassy or consulate within 30 days of online application. Bring printed application form, original documents, and payment receipt. They'll take fingerprints and photos. If you're already in Kenya on a visitor visa, visit Nyayo House in Nairobi.
Track application and collect permit. Check application status on eCitizen using your reference number. Processing takes 30-60 days. You'll receive an SMS when approved. Collect your work permit from the immigration office where you submitted biometrics, or it will be sent to the Kenyan embassy if applied from abroad.

Can I apply while already in Kenya?: Yes, if you're in Kenya on a valid visitor visa, you can apply and submit biometrics at Nyayo House in Nairobi. However, you cannot work until your permit is approved.
What if my documents aren't in English?: All documents must be in English or officially translated and notarized. Documents from some countries also need apostille certification before submission.
Can I change employers with a work permit?: No, work permits are employer-specific. You must apply for a new permit if changing jobs, even within the same company for different roles.
How long before expiry should I renew?: Apply for renewal 60-90 days before your current permit expires. Late renewals may result in penalties or requirement to leave the country.