Work permit application in kenya

A Class D Work Permit in Kenya, also known as a Work Visa, is issued to foreign nationals who wish to work and reside in Kenya. It may be granted to individuals with a specific employment offer, or to companies and organizations seeking to employ foreign nationals for specialized roles.

The application process for work permit for kenyais closely monitored by the Kenya Department of Immigration Services to protect local employment opportunities. However, strategically qualified expatriates or key employees of foreign companies are eligible to apply for a Class D Work Permit.

Class d work permit kenya cost (breakdown for 2025 )

The official government fee for a Work Permit in Kenya are as follows,

1. Application processing fee: KES 20,000 (non-refundable)
2. Permit issuance fee: KES 500,000 per year (payable after approval)

These are the standard Class D Work Permit fees as set by the Kenya Directorate of Immigration Services. The application fee must be paid when submitting your application on the eCitizen portal, while the issuance fee is paid once your permit has been approved and ready for collection.

Tip: Budget for both the application and issuance fees in advance. Submitting a complete application helps you avoid costly delays or reapplications.

Kenya Work Permit Requirements: A Complete Checklist

To apply for a Class D Work Permit, you will need the following.

1. Certified copies of academic and professional certificates of the applicant.
2. Detailed resume (CV) of the applicant.
3. Copy of registration certificate of the employing company or organization.
4. Company PIN certificate.
5. Evidence that the position cannot be filled by a qualified Kenyan citizen.
6. Employer company’s tax compliance certificate.
7. Duly completed Immigration Form 25.
8. Recent passport photo of the applicant.
9. Copy of the applicant’s valid passport (bio-data page).
10. Cover letter from the employer offering employment.
11. Applicant’s contact details (email, phone, postal and residential address).
12. Employer’s contact details (email, phone, postal and physical address).
13. Signed employment contract between the employer and applicant.
14. Employment contract of the understudy (local employee).
15. CV of the understudy.
16. Contact details of the understudy.

How to get work permit in kenya : Application procedure

Follow these steps to apply for a work permit in Kenya:

1. Prepare all required documents listed above.
2. Submit the application to the Director of Immigration Services via the eFNS portal.
3. Pay the non-refundable application fee..
4. Once processed, an approval certificate will be issued along with an invoice for permit fees.
5. For permit issuance, you must provide:
   • Proof of permit fee payment (bank receipt).
   • Security Bond and receipt.
   • Certificate of approval.
6. Upon payment of the permit fees and upload of the issuance documents an eWork Permit is generated and issued.

Kenya Work permit processing time: How long does it take in 2025?

The average processing time for a Kenya work permit in 2025 typically ranges from 8 to 12 weeks, though in some cases it may extend to 3 to 7 months. The exact duration depends on the class of permit applied for and how complete your application is at submission.

Pro Tip: Apply early—at least three months before your intended start date—and submit during off-peak months (April–June) when immigration workload is typically lower.

Who Can Apply for a Work Permit?

Eligibility for a Class D Work Permit depends on the job role and applicant qualifications:

• A valid passport from your country of origin.
• A confirmed job or employment offer from a Kenyan employer.
• Relevant qualifications and professional experience for the proposed job.
• Proof that the position cannot be filled by a Kenyan citizen.

Benefits of a Work Permit in Kenya

Once granted, the Class D Work Permit allows foreign employees to legally work and reside in Kenya. Key benefits include:

1. Permission to work in Kenya like a local employee.
2. Eligibility for an Alien ID, which allows you to register for a KRA PIN and pay taxes.
3. Multiple entries and exits into Kenya without needing a visa.
4. Ability to lease or invest in leasehold property in Kenya.
5. Freedom to open and operate bank accounts in Kenya.