Nairobi Visas & Permits

As a foreign resident, what is my status in your country?
All incoming visitors to Kenya (except East African citizens) will now require a visa, regardless of nationality. Citizens of the following countries need to have a visa prior to arrival in Kenya:
Afghanistan, Azerbaijan, Armenia, Cameroon, Iran, Iraq, Lebanon, Libya, Mali, Nigeria, North Korea, Pakistan, Senegal, Somalia, Sudan, Syria, Tajikistan, Yemen and stateless persons.

Visa requirements often change. We advise you to check with your local Kenyan embassy or consulate for the latest visa requirements. Your status in Kenya depends on the visa that you have obtained for your stay.
↑ Top

What kinds of visas are available?
All non-Kenya citizens must be in possession of entry/work permits issued by the Principal Immigration Office before they can take up employment in Kenya, whether paid or unpaid. Applications may be considered when submitted by prospective employers on behalf of their prospective employees. These may not normally be approved unless the prospective employer(s) can show evidence that they have been unable to fill the particular post(s) due to lack of suitably qualified personnel in the Kenya labor market. You must ensure that your employer has secured appropriate entry/work permits before proceeding to Kenya.
↑ Top

What is required to obtain these visas?
Your employer needs to apply on your behalf. So it is up to your employer to gather the necessary documents. (Identification paper, 2 identity photos, etc.)
↑ Top

Are spouses permitted and/or likely to find work?
Once in the country, an accompanying spouse (husband or wife) may apply for his or her own work permit, which will be considered entirely on his or her own merits.
↑ Top

What are the main forms of identification and how does a newcomer obtain them?
The most important piece of identification is the ID carrying your PIN (Personal Identification Number). Be careful to only give out your identification to uniformed, official policemen for identity purposes. You can't do anything in Kenya without the PIN.
↑ Top

Are there any other important permits I must obtain, or places where I must register right away?
You need to have a PIN (Personal Identification Number) to obtain insurance, register and to clear goods. Your spouse also needs a PIN.
↑ Top

What items should I avoid bringing into the country?

  • Weapons, silencers,  toy guns and explosives, including tear gas
  • Firearms require a certificate to be issued by Nairobi Firearms Bureau for import
  • Plants, seeds, bulbs, fresh fruit and vegetables (unless a permit is obtained from the Ministry of Agriculture stating plants are free from disease)
  • Pornographic material
  • Drugs
  • Political literature 

Full details can be found on the website of the Kenya Revenue Authority.
↑ Top

Is there anything else I should know about entering and remaining in the country legally?
Not at this time.
↑ Top

IMPORTANT NOTE:
Crown Relocations has made every effort to present accurate information. However, regulations, rates and other variables are subject to change and Crown Relocations cannot accept responsibility for the errors that might result. Should you have any questions or need additional information, please contact your local Crown representative.