Navigating work permits in Kenya can be complex, especially for foreign professionals, investors, and retirees seeking lawful entry into the Kenyan job market. Kenya’s immigration framework classifies work permits into distinct categories, each designed for specific economic activities and eligibility criteria. Among these, Class G, Class K, and Class N remain the most commonly applied-for permits due to their relevance to investors, retirees, and prescribed professional roles. This guide breaks down what each permit entails, who qualifies, and what applicants must know before submitting an application to the Department of Immigration Services.
For clients seeking work permit lawyers in Mombasa, the three most commonly applied permits are Class G (Investors and Business Owners), Class K (Retirees), and Class N (Digital Nomads). Each permit serves a distinct purpose and has specific documentation requirements, government costs, and processing timeline
Understanding the Key Common Work Permits in Kenya
Class G Work Permit – Investors and Business Owners
The Class G work permit is designed for foreign nationals who intend to engage in trade, business, or consultancy in Kenya. It is the most popular permit among investors setting up companies or acquiring shares in Kenyan entities.
Documents Required
Applicants are generally required to provide incorporation documents for the Kenyan company, evidence of shareholding or directorship, proof of capital investment (USD 100,000), passport copies, passport photographs, police clearance and company tax registration documents.
Government Costs
The standard government fee for a Class G work permit is KES 250,000 per year, payable upon approval. There is also a KES 20,000 non-refundable processing fee payable at the time of submission.
Class K Work Permit – Retirees and Persons with Passive Income
The Class K work permit is intended for foreign nationals who wish to reside in Kenya but do not intend to work or engage in employment or business. It is particularly popular among retirees settling in Mombasa, Diani, Malindi, and Kilifi.
Documents Required
Applicants must demonstrate a stable and passive income from sources outside Kenya (USD 24,000 per year). Required documents include proof of annual income or pension, bank statements (for at least 3 months), police clearance passport copies and passport photographs. A declaration confirming that the applicant will not engage in employment or business is also required.
Government Costs
The government fee for a Class K permit is KES 250,000 per year, payable upon approval, in addition to the KES 20,000 processing fee.
Class N Work Permit – Digital Nomads and Remote Workers
The Class N work permit applies to digital nomads and remote workers who earn income from sources outside Kenya but wish to reside in the country while working remotely. This permit has gained significant popularity among professionals working for foreign employers or running offshore online businesses.
Documents Required
Applicants must demonstrate remote employment or self-employment outside Kenya. Required documents typically include proof of remote work or freelance contracts, evidence of income earned outside Kenya, recent bank statements, a curriculum vitae, passport copies, passport photographs, proof of accommodation in Kenya, and letter of no objection from the local embassy.
Government Costs
The government fee for a Class N permit is USD 1,000 per year, payable upon approval, in addition to the USD 200 application fee.
Timelines
Under normal processing, work permits take approximately six (6) months. Where all documents are in order and the application is properly structured, fast-tracking may reduce the timeline to about two (2) months, subject to immigration discretion.
Normal vs Fast-Tracked Work Permit Processing
While Kenyan immigration officially provides a standard processing timeline of about six months, fast-tracking is possible in practice where applications are professionally prepared, fully documented, and actively followed up. Fast-tracking does not remove scrutiny but significantly reduces idle delays caused by incomplete or inconsistent filings.
Why Engage a Work Permit Lawyer in Mombasa
Work permit applications are highly document-sensitive. Minor errors, missing approvals, or poorly structured applications can lead to long delays or outright rejection. Engaging an experienced immigration lawyer in Mombasa ensures proper assessment of eligibility, accurate preparation of documents, compliance with immigration requirements, and effective follow-up with the relevant authorities.
Conclusion
Class G, Class K, and Class N remain the three most popular work permits in Kenya for investors, retirees, and digital nomads. Each permit has distinct requirements, costs, and processing timelines that must be carefully navigated.
For individuals and organizations seeking work permits in Mombasa and the Coastal Region, professional legal guidance is essential to ensure timely approval and long-term compliance with Kenyan immigration law.
