What is a Special Pass in Kenya
An immigration special Pass in Kenya is a immigration permit issued to Foreign Nationals or Foreign Business representatives wishing to work, conduct Business, consult, volunteer or generally to carry on business activities in the country for a short period of time.
A special Pass may be issued for a duration not exceeding three Months and is generally not renewable or transferable after three months.
Requirements for Special Pass Application
Submit the following documents through the eFNS (Foreign Nationals) portal on eCitizen:
Mandatory documents
- Form 32 (Special Pass Application) — completed, signed and stamped by the sponsor
- Cover letter to the Director General of Immigration Services explaining purpose & duration
- Copy of passport bio-data page (valid ≥ 6 months)
- Two recent passport-size color photos (white background)
- Copy of current visa/immigration status (if applicant already in Kenya)
- Certificate of Incorporation or registration of sponsoring Kenyan company
- KRA Tax Compliance Certificate for sponsor (where applicable)
- Certified copies of academic/professional certificates
- Applicant CV / resume
- Invitation letter or contract from the Kenyan host / employer
- Any required regulatory clearances for regulated sectors (medical, engineering, NACOSTI, etc.)
Supporting documents (if applicable)
- Translations for documents not in English
- Evidence of a pending work permit application (if relevant)
- Copies of any current Kenyan permits or passes
Practical tip: Include a clear invitation letter from the Kenyan host explaining the business activities and duration — this accelerates approval in most cases.
Cost of Special Pass in Kenya (2025 Fees)
| Fee type | Amount | Notes |
|---|
| Processing fee | Fee | No payment on application) |
| Issuance fee | USD 200 per month | Charged per month of validity for non-EAC nationals |
| Prohibited Immigrant/inadmissible person |
KES 100,000 per month | charged monthly |
| East African nationals | Free | Reciprocity — usually no USD issuance fee |
Payment must be made within 30 days of approval or the approval will lapse.
Special pass Application Procedure
- The application for a Special Pass in Kenya, with all the requirements is made to the Director of Immigration Services Kenya
- The Application form is submitted via a Foreign National services account.
- The special pass application alongside the supporting documents are then processed.
- If the Kenya Special pass application is successful, a Special Pass Approval certificate is issued with the terms of payment for the Permit.
- Upon payment, The certificate of special pass is issued.
Special Pass Kenya Processing Time (2025 Update)
The processing time for a Special Pass in Kenya typically ranges between 2 to 6 weeks, depending on the completeness of your application and approval from the Directorate of Immigration Services.
Applicants are advised to ensure all required documents are submitted correctly on the eFNS portal to avoid delays.
For urgent cases, Biz Brokers Kenya offers professional assistance to help expedite your Special Pass application in Kenya.
Renewal or Extension of special pass in Kenya
Generally a special pass cannot be extended or renewable beyond three months. However it may be extended in certain circumstances Such as
- Where the applicant has a pending permit application in process. Such as a Class D Work permit or a Class G Investor Permit in process.
- Where the objective or purpose of issuance of the Special pass is incomplete and upon application to immigration department in writing.
FAQs - Kenya Special pass Frequently Asked Questions
Foreign nationals who need to work in Kenya on a short-term basis, particularly those awaiting the processing of their work permits, require a Special Pass. This includes expatriates involved in projects or contracts that demand immediate labor.
A Special Pass in Kenya is generally valid for a maximum of 90 days. However, it can be renewed or extended under certain circumstances EG. Where you have a work permit application pending.
Yes, a Special Pass allows you to work legally in Kenya for the duration of its validity.
No, it is not possible to convert a Special Pass to a work permit in Kenya. They are entirely different permits. You may however apply for a work permit while on a special pass permit.
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Yes. Employers who require a foreigner employee to start work in Kenya immediately can first apply for a special pass.
A special pass is a Temporary Work or Business Permit that allows foreign nationals to work or conduct Business in Kenya for a limited period, typically up to 90 days.
Yes, a Special pass can be applied for Online via the fns portal. We can assist you with this process.