List of Work Permits in Kenya for foreigners

WANT TO WORK IN KENYA? HERE’S THE TRUTH ABOUT WORK PERMITS THAT NO ONE TELLS YOU!”

Kenya is one of Africa’s fastest-growing hubs for business, trade, and professional opportunities. But if you’re a foreigner dreaming of starting your career or business here, there’s one golden key you must have in hand: a Kenya Work Permit.

Work permits are the legal bridge between you and your Kenyan opportunity. Without one, you risk hefty fines, deportation, and even a ban from re-entry. The law is very clear if you’re going to work, consult, or even run your own business in Kenya, you must have the right permit.

The main types of permits include:

1. Class A – Mining & prospecting
2. Class B – Agriculture & animal husbandry.
3. Class C – Prescribed professions (law, medicine, etc.).
4. Class D – Employment (for skills not readily available in Kenya).
5. Class F – Specific manufacturing.
6. Class G – Trade, business & consultancy.
7. Class I & Q – Religious or charitable activities.
8. Class K – Retirement visa for people above 35 with external income.
9. Class M – Refugees.
10. Class N – Digital Nomad permit
11. Class P – Diplomatic & NGO staff.
12. Class R – East African Community citizens (free of charge!).

The process may feel overwhelming job offers, professional registrations, police clearance certificates, and the endless paperwork. But the truth is, once you know the steps, it becomes much easier:

1️ . Secure a job offer or register your business.

2️. Collect all required documents (passport, job letter, clearance certificates).

3️. Apply online or through a licensed agent.

4️. Waiting for approvals can take weeks or months.

5️. Collect your permit from the Immigration Department.

Common mistakes many people make include: applying without the right qualifications, submitting incomplete documents, or forgetting to register with the relevant professional body.

NOTE: A Kenya Work Permit isn’t just a piece of paper, it’s your ticket to legally unlocking opportunities in one of Africa’s most vibrant economies. Get it right, and your Kenyan dream can take off without turbulence