OLM Law specialises in navigating the complex legal frameworks surrounding immigration and citizenship in Kenya, assisting clients with work permit applications in Kenya, residency permits, investor permits and eTA applications. Our team ensures a smooth, compliant path for expatriates and foreign nationals.

In addition, we provide valuable advisory services to expatriates, guiding them through the process of obtaining and maintaining legal residency in Kenya. Our team is well-versed in the various residency options available, streamlining the process for individuals to secure work permits necessary for employment in Kenya. Moreover, we assist foreign nationals with the registration of Kenyan citizenship, helping them understand and meet the criteria to obtain or regain citizen status.

We also take pride in managing the complete spectrum of legal documentation and compliance procedures associated with immigration and citizenship issues. By acting as a liaison between our clients and the pertinent government agencies, we ensure effective communication and coordination, helping to expedite processes, resolve potential obstacles, and facilitate a seamless journey towards achieving residency or citizenship in Kenya. 

Our commitment is to simplify the complex legal landscape of immigration and citizenship in Kenya, enabling our clients to pursue their aspirations with ease. By providing a streamlined path through the often challenging processes, we maximize efficiency and minimize hassle, ensuring that our clients can focus on their objectives with confidence and clarity.

Related Practice Areas: Business Registration | Employment Law Kenya

Work Permit Categories in Kenya

Work permits in Kenya are issued under the Kenya Citizenship and Immigration Act 2011 (KCIA) and the Kenya Citizenship and Immigration Regulations 2012. The Department of Immigration Services under the Ministry of Interior administers permit applications. The principal work permit categories include:

• Class G (Specific Business Permit) — issued to a person seeking to engage in a specific trade or business in Kenya, including foreign investors establishing businesses
• Class I (Employment Permit) — issued to a person who has been offered employment by a specific employer in Kenya; the employer must demonstrate that no qualified Kenyan is available for the role
• Class M (Dependant Pass) — issued to the spouse and dependants of a valid permit holder; the holder may apply to convert to a work permit upon securing employment
• Special Passes and Exemptions — certain individuals, including EAC citizens, diplomats, and investors under the Special Economic Zones Act, are exempt from permit requirements or qualify for expedited processing

Investment and Residency Permits in Kenya

Beyond employment-based work permits in Kenya, the immigration framework provides several pathways for investors and long-term residents:

• Investor Permit (Class G) — foreign nationals investing in Kenya may obtain a Class G permit, subject to minimum capital investment thresholds set by the Department of Immigration; OLM Law advises on structuring investments to meet the applicable requirements
• Permanent Residence — under Section 44 of the KCIA, a foreign national who has held a valid permit for seven years may apply for permanent residence; spouses of Kenyan citizens qualify after three years of marriage
• Kenya Citizenship — a foreign national who has been a permanent resident for three years may apply for citizenship by registration under the Constitution of Kenya 2010 and the KCIA
• Digital Nomad Permit — Kenya launched the Digital Nomad Visa in 2023, enabling remote workers and freelancers to reside in Kenya while working for foreign employers; OLM Law advises on eligibility and the application process