Requirements for Special Pass Application in Kenya: Complete Document Checklist

Below is a practical checklist for a Special Pass application in Kenya. Applications are submitted online through the government eFNS portal using Form 32. Missing or inconsistent documents are the #1 cause of deferrals.

Submission platform: fns.immigration.go.ke (sign in using eCitizen credentials via account.ecitizen.go.ke).

Quick overview of Special Pass requirements

Sponsor (Kenyan entity): Company/organization documents, KRA PIN & Tax Compliance, signed cover letter, and authorized Form 32.
Applicant (foreign national): Valid passport, photo, CV, relevant certificates, and statutory clearances (if applicable).

Part A: Sponsor / Employer Documents

• Form 32 (Special Pass) — completed online via eFNS (ensure sponsor details are accurate).
• Cover letter — addressed to the Director General of Immigration Services, signed and stamped, explaining:
  • Purpose and scope of the assignment (what will be done, for whom, where)
  • Exact period requested (start and end dates)
  • Why a Special Pass is required (short assignment / bridging while permit is pending)
  • Brief background of the sponsor company and project
• Certificate of Incorporation / Registration — copy (certified preferred).
• Company KRA PIN — copy.
• Valid KRA Tax Compliance Certificate — current and non-expired.
• Contract / engagement letter / invitation — role, deliverables, and duration.
• Proof of signatory authority — board resolution/authorization if signatory is not a director.
• Sector approvals — where applicable (NGO, research, medical, telecom, etc.).

Part B: Applicant Documents

• Passport biodata page — at least 6 months validity recommended.
• Passport photo — recent color (45mm × 35mm), white background.
• Proof of status in Kenya — visa / entry stamp / current pass (if already in Kenya).
• CV — relevant to the assignment.
• Academic/professional certificates — relevant to the role.
• Prior Kenya permits/passes — if previously held (where applicable).
• Evidence of pending permit — receipt/acknowledgement where Special Pass is a bridge.
• Contacts — email/phone/address for sponsor and applicant.
• Regulatory clearances — if the role is regulated (examples):
  • KMPDC for medical practice
  • EBK for engineers
  • NACOSTI for research
  • Other statutory bodies depending on sector

Common causes of deferral

• Mismatched passport details or inconsistent spelling of names
• Missing sponsor cover letter, missing stamp, or unclear signatory authority
• Unreadable scans / incomplete pages
• Missing statutory clearance for regulated professions

How Much Is a Special Pass in Kenya? (2026 Fees & Cost Examples)

The Kenya Special Pass fee is USD 200 per month (or part of a month) for most applicants. This means if Immigration approves you for 1 day into a new month, it is commonly treated as a full month. The online application submission is usually free, and you pay after approval via eFNS/eCitizen.

How to Apply for a Special Pass in Kenya (Official eFNS Form 32 Steps)

The sponsor submits a Special Pass application online via eFNS, completes Form 32, uploads documents, tracks status, then pays after approval. A well-prepared submission can be completed in under an hour.

How Long Does It Take to Get a Special Pass in Kenya? (2026 Processing Time)

A complete Special Pass application is commonly processed within 2 to 6 weeks. Timelines vary depending on completeness, regulated-profession clearances, and Immigration workload.

What affects processing time

• Completeness: Missing items often trigger deferrals and reset timelines.
• Regulated professions: Medical/engineering/research roles may require additional approvals.
• Response speed: Slow replies to portal queries can extend the timeline significantly.

Duration, Validity & Extensions

Special Pass approvals are case-dependent. Many applicants receive 1–3 months initially, based on the assignment scope and the justification provided. In suitable cases, Immigration may grant extensions, and total time can reach up to 6 months (discretionary).

When extensions are commonly considered

• Pending long-term permit: evidence that a Class D/Class G (or other relevant permit) application is under processing.
• Project needs: documented reasons that the assignment genuinely requires more time.
• Exceptional situations: where delays are outside the applicant’s control.

Best practice is to initiate extension requests early (before expiry) and support the request with a clear letter, updated dates, and evidence of pending permit status where relevant.

Special Pass vs. Work Permit: Key Differences

Important: You generally cannot “convert” a Special Pass into a Work Permit. They are separate permissions. Many applicants use a Special Pass to remain compliant while their long-term permit is being processed.

FAQs – Kenya Special Pass Frequently Asked Questions

This guide is prepared by immigration consultants in Kenya with hands-on experience handling Special Pass and Work Permit applications through the eFNS portal.