Last updated: 22 February 2026 · Author:

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Scope of this page (Renewal / Extension only):

This guide covers Class D work permit renewal / extension in Kenya for applicants who already hold a permit. For first-time Class D applications (requirements, Form 25/Form 27, fees, and initial eFNS filing steps), use our Class D Work Permit Application in Kenya guide.

What’s different in a work permit renewal?

A renewal generally uses the same eFNS workflow as a new application, but Immigration focuses on updated compliance evidence and proof the job is still justified.

Renewal focus areas (the “difference”):
  • Tax compliance: valid company TCC and (commonly) valid individual TCC for the employee
  • Continued employment & need: updated employer letter + confirmation of role continuity
  • Understudy / skills transfer: continued understudy evidence + progress note where applicable
  • Consistency: passport/permit names & dates must match across uploads and forms

Renewal-only checklist (keep it short)

For the full base list (Form 25/27, employer docs, applicant docs), use: Class D application checklist. Below are the renewal add-ons Immigration typically expects.

  • Valid Company Tax Compliance Certificate (TCC) (fresh/active at filing)
  • Valid Individual Tax Compliance Certificate (TCC) for the employee (where required)
  • Copy of current/previous permit + current immigration status (if in Kenya)
  • Updated employer letter confirming continued employment + continued need
  • Contract continuation or extension letter (if contract has been extended/updated)
  • Understudy continuation: understudy still engaged + 1-page skills-transfer progress note

Fees for renewal (confirm inside eFNS)

Fee type When paid Notes
Processing fee — KES 20,000 At submission Non-refundable
Issuance fee — KES 500,000 per year After approval Pay portal invoice before issuance/endorsement

Fees can change. Always confirm the exact amounts shown in your eFNS invoice before paying.

How to renew a work permit on eFNS (step-by-step)

  1. Prepare renewal add-ons: valid TCCs (company + individual), copy of current permit, updated employer letter, understudy progress note.
  2. Login to eFNS using Government SSO and select the relevant work permit renewal/extension option.
  3. Complete renewal fields carefully (names/dates must match passport and existing permit).
  4. Upload documents as clear PDFs (avoid blurry images).
  5. Pay processing fee and submit.
  6. Monitor dashboard daily for queries and respond within 48–72 hours.
  7. After approval: pay issuance invoice and follow the portal steps for final issuance/endorsement.

Timelines & when to renew

Best practice: prepare and submit about 3 months before expiry. Timelines vary depending on workload and completeness. Renewals with clean compliance evidence tend to move faster.

Common renewal pitfalls (and fixes)

  • Expired TCCs: renew company (and individual) TCC before filing.
  • Missing permit copy: upload current/previous permit clearly.
  • Weak understudy evidence: add a short progress note + confirm understudy is still employed.
  • Mismatched names/dates: standardize spellings and dates across forms, letters, passport, permit.
  • Slow responses: assign a point person to watch eFNS notifications daily.

Download: Kenya Work Permit Checklist (PDF)

Printable checklist for Class D applications, renewals, and NGO endorsement add-on.

✅ Kenya Work Permit Checklist (2026) — PDF

Need help preparing a clean eFNS upload pack? Call +254757884710 · Email info@bizbrokerskenya.com · WhatsApp Chat on WhatsApp

Applying for the first time? See our Class D Work Permit Application Guide.

FAQs

When should I apply for renewal?

Prepare the file about 3 months before expiry to allow time for compliance updates and eFNS queries.

What is different in a renewal compared to a new work permit application?

Renewals use a similar eFNS workflow, but Immigration expects updated compliance evidence (especially tax compliance), proof of continued employment/need, and ongoing understudy or skills-transfer support where applicable.

How much does it cost to renew a work permit in Kenya?

Fees are typically a processing fee at submission and an issuance fee after approval. Always confirm the final payable amount on the official eFNS invoice before paying.

Can I continue working while my renewal is processed?

If you apply before expiry, employers often keep proof of submission while awaiting a decision. Practical outcomes can vary—confirm the current position on eFNS/with Immigration for your case.

Where do I find the latest checklist?

Use the official eFNS portal checklist and compare it to your file before submitting. Requirements are updated periodically.

Official references (confirm latest requirements/fees on filing date):

Directorate of Immigration Services — Passes and Work Permits · eFNS Portal (Foreign Nationals Services)

Want us to review your renewal file before submission?
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