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Kenya

Africa

Kenya is emerging as a top destination for digital nomads in Africa. Known as the Silicon Savannah, Nairobi offers a thriving tech ecosystem, excellent coworking spaces, and affordable living costs. The country launched its Class N Digital Nomad Work Permit in October 2024, allowing remote workers to live and work legally for up to two years. With visa-free entry for all nationalities via the Electronic Travel Authorization system, stunning wildlife, beautiful beaches, and a welcoming English-speaking population, Kenya combines adventure with productivity.

6
Visa Types
70
Nationalities visa-free
🪪Your Passport:

Visa requirements vary by nationality

🎫 Available Visa Types

⭐Recommended for Digital Nomads
Special Program

Class N Digital Nomad Work Permit

Kenya's dedicated visa for remote workers employed by companies outside Kenya or freelancers serving foreign clients. Allows legal residence for up to 2 years.

365 days
Duration
$1,200
— fee
+$500 additional

💰 Income Requirement

Minimum $24,000/per_year

Alternative: Bank statements showing consistent income from foreign sources over the past 3 months

✅ Key Benefits

✓Legal residence in Kenya for 1-2 years
✓Work remotely for foreign companies without restrictions
✓Potential pathway to long-term residency and citizenship
✓Access to Kenya's thriving tech ecosystem
✓No local employment tax if staying under 183 days
✓Freedom to explore Kenya's national parks and beaches
✓Spouse and dependents can be included
📋 Requirements (10)
  • •Valid passport with at least 6 months validity
  • •Proof of remote employment or freelance contracts with foreign companies
  • •Minimum annual income of USD 24,000 from sources outside Kenya
  • •Bank statements from the last 3 months
  • •Signed cover letter addressed to Director General of Immigration Services
  • •Proof of accommodation in Kenya
  • •Clean criminal record certificate from country of habitual residence
  • •Valid health insurance covering Kenya
  • •Two recent passport-sized photos
  • •Letter of no objection from your embassy (in some cases)
📝 Application Process
✓ Online Application⏱ 1-3 months standard processing
  1. 1Create an account on the Kenya eFNS portal (fns.immigration.go.ke)
  2. 2Complete Form 25 - Digital Nomad Permit Application
  3. 3Upload all required documents
  4. 4Pay the USD 200 processing fee via eCitizen
  5. 5Wait for application review (1-3 months)
  6. 6Upon approval, pay the USD 1,000 annual permit fee
  7. 7Receive digital permit within 5-10 working days
  8. 8Present permit at Nyayo House for passport endorsement
Apply Online
🔄 Extension & Renewal

Extension: 365 days (max x)

Cost: $1,000

Process: Submit renewal application via eFNS portal at least 30 days before expiry. Pay renewal fee and provide updated documentation.

Renewal: The permit can be renewed annually as long as eligibility requirements are met. Renewal requires updated proof of income and employment.

💡 Pro Tips

  • •Apply well in advance as processing can take up to 3 months
  • •Keep all income documentation organized and easily accessible
  • •Consider staying under 183 days to avoid tax residency
  • •Join digital nomad communities in Nairobi for local insights
  • •Popular areas for nomads include Westlands, Kilimani, and Diani Beach

Electronic Travel Authorization (ETA)

TouristPopular

Since January 2024, Kenya requires all visitors to obtain an ETA instead of a traditional visa. Valid for tourism, business visits, and transit for up to 90 days.

90d
Duration
$34
— fee
+$50 additional
📍Apply: Embassy
⏱1-3 business days, usually within 24-72 hours
🔄Extendable +90d
View full details
💰 Cost Breakdown
USDUSD
Required
ETA processing feeStandard fee for most nationalities
$34—
Additional (estimated)
Expedited processingFor urgent applications
$50—
Required Total
$34—
+ Additional (estimated)
$50—
Estimated Total
$84—
💡 Costs may vary. Additional costs are estimates and may not all apply to your situation. Always verify current fees with official sources.

📋 Requirements

  • •Valid passport with at least 6 months validity
  • •One blank passport page for entry stamp
  • •Proof of accommodation in Kenya
  • •Return or onward travel ticket
  • •Recent passport-sized photo
  • •Credit/debit card for payment

📝 Application Steps

  1. 1Visit the official Kenya ETA website (www.etakenya.go.ke)
  2. 2Create an account and start a new application
  3. 3Fill out the application form with personal details
  4. 4Upload passport photo and supporting documents
  5. 5Pay the USD 34 processing fee online
  6. 6Receive approval via email within 1-3 business days
  7. 7Print or save the ETA to present at immigration

⚠️ Restrictions

  • •Single entry only - new ETA required for each visit
  • •Cannot work or conduct business activities in Kenya
  • •Does not allow remote work for foreign companies legally
  • •Must be obtained before travel

💡 Tips

  • •Apply at least 3 days before travel
  • •Use only the official government website to avoid scams
  • •ETA is valid for 90 days from issuance - enter within this period
  • •EAC citizens (Uganda, Tanzania, Rwanda, etc.) are exempt from ETA

East African Tourist Visa

TouristPopular

A single multiple-entry visa valid for Kenya, Uganda, and Rwanda. Ideal for travelers exploring multiple East African countries.

90d
Duration
$101
— fee
📍Apply: Embassy
⏱3-5 business days
🔄No extension
View full details
💰 Cost Breakdown
USDUSD
Required
East African Tourist Visa feeValid for Kenya, Uganda, and Rwanda
$101—
Required Total
$101—
💡 Costs may vary. Additional costs are estimates and may not all apply to your situation. Always verify current fees with official sources.

📋 Requirements

  • •Valid passport with at least 6 months validity
  • •Two passport-sized photos
  • •Proof of accommodation
  • •Return or onward travel ticket
  • •Travel itinerary covering all three countries
  • •Yellow fever vaccination certificate

📝 Application Steps

  1. 1Apply through the eVisa portal of your first country of entry
  2. 2If starting in Kenya, apply at www.etakenya.go.ke
  3. 3Select East African Tourist Visa option
  4. 4Upload all required documents
  5. 5Pay the USD 101 fee
  6. 6Receive approval via email
  7. 7Present visa at all three countries' borders

⚠️ Restrictions

  • •Tourism purposes only - no work permitted
  • •Must enter through the country of application
  • •Cannot be extended
  • •90 days total, not per country

💡 Tips

  • •Apply through your first country of entry
  • •Great value if visiting all three countries
  • •Yellow fever vaccination required for all three countries
  • •Plan your itinerary carefully within the 90-day limit

Class D Work Permit (Employment)

Work

The standard work permit for foreigners employed by Kenyan companies. Requires employer sponsorship and proof of skills not available locally.

730d
Duration
$2,200
— fee
+$100 additional
📍Apply: Online
⏱2-6 months depending on complexity
🔄Extendable +730d
View full details
💰 Cost Breakdown
USDUSD
Required
Processing feeNon-refundable application fee
$200—
Work permit feeAnnual fee for Class D permit
$2,000—
Additional (estimated)
Document certificationFor academic certificates
$100—
Required Total
$2,200—
+ Additional (estimated)
$100—
Estimated Total
$2,300—
💡 Costs may vary. Additional costs are estimates and may not all apply to your situation. Always verify current fees with official sources.

📋 Requirements

  • •Valid passport with at least 6 months validity
  • •Formal job offer from Kenyan employer
  • •Signed cover letter from employer to Director General
  • •Certified copies of academic and professional certificates
  • •Curriculum vitae
  • •Employer's Tax Compliance Certificate
  • •Evidence of competitive recruitment process
  • •Details of Kenyan understudy being trained
  • •Two passport-sized photos
  • •Police clearance certificate

📝 Application Steps

  1. 1Employer submits application via eFNS portal
  2. 2Complete Form 25 with all required documentation
  3. 3Pay processing fee of USD 200
  4. 4Application reviewed by Permit Determination Committee
  5. 5Wait for approval (2-6 months)
  6. 6Pay annual work permit fee upon approval
  7. 7Collect permit and register for Alien Card

⚠️ Restrictions

  • •Tied to specific employer - changing jobs requires new permit
  • •Must train a Kenyan understudy
  • •Skills must not be available locally
  • •Subject to labor market test

💡 Tips

  • •Start the process early as it can take several months
  • •Ensure all documents are properly certified
  • •Employer must demonstrate genuine need for foreign worker
  • •Keep copies of all submitted documents

Class G Work Permit (Business/Consultancy)

Work

For foreigners intending to engage in business, trade, consultancy, or a non-prescribed profession in Kenya.

730d
Duration
$2,200
— fee
+$500 additional
📍Apply: Online
⏱2-6 months
🔄Extendable +730d
View full details
💰 Cost Breakdown
USDUSD
Required
Processing feeNon-refundable
$200—
Work permit feeAnnual fee
$2,000—
Additional (estimated)
Business registrationIf registering new company
$500—
Required Total
$2,200—
+ Additional (estimated)
$500—
Estimated Total
$2,700—
💡 Costs may vary. Additional costs are estimates and may not all apply to your situation. Always verify current fees with official sources.

📋 Requirements

  • •Valid passport with at least 6 months validity
  • •Detailed business plan
  • •Proof of investment capital
  • •Company registration documents (if applicable)
  • •Bank statements showing financial capacity
  • •Clean criminal record certificate
  • •Two passport-sized photos
  • •Cover letter explaining business intentions

📝 Application Steps

  1. 1Register company in Kenya if not already done
  2. 2Apply via eFNS portal
  3. 3Submit business plan and financial proof
  4. 4Pay processing fee
  5. 5Await committee review
  6. 6Pay permit fee upon approval

⚠️ Restrictions

  • •Must demonstrate benefit to Kenya
  • •Subject to capital requirements
  • •Must comply with local business regulations
  • •Tax obligations apply

💡 Tips

  • •Prepare a solid business plan
  • •Consider the local market demand
  • •Consult with a Kenyan immigration lawyer
  • •Budget for additional business setup costs

Special Pass

Work

A short-term permit for foreigners needing to work temporarily in Kenya while waiting for a work permit or for brief assignments.

90d
Duration
$100
— fee
📍Apply: Online
⏱1-2 weeks
🔄Extendable +90d
View full details
💰 Cost Breakdown
USDUSD
Required
Special Pass feePer 3-month period
$100—
Required Total
$100—
💡 Costs may vary. Additional costs are estimates and may not all apply to your situation. Always verify current fees with official sources.

📋 Requirements

  • •Valid passport
  • •Letter from sponsoring organization
  • •Proof of temporary nature of work
  • •Return ticket or onward travel plans

📝 Application Steps

  1. 1Employer or sponsor submits application
  2. 2Provide justification for short-term need
  3. 3Pay special pass fee
  4. 4Receive pass valid for up to 3 months
  5. 5Can be renewed once for additional 3 months

⚠️ Restrictions

  • •Maximum 6 months total
  • •Tied to specific employer/project
  • •Cannot be converted to permanent status
  • •Limited to defined scope of work

💡 Tips

  • •Use this as a bridge while waiting for Class D or G permit
  • •Start your main permit application immediately
  • •Keep documentation of work performed

📊 Quick Facts

CapitalNairobi
CurrencyKES (KSh)
LanguageEnglish, Swahili
TimezoneUTC+3
Last UpdatedDec 4, 2025

🔗 Official Resources

Immigration BureauEmbassy Website

❓ Frequently Asked Questions

Does Kenya have a digital nomad visa?
Yes! Kenya launched the Class N Digital Nomad Work Permit in October 2024. It allows remote workers employed by foreign companies or freelancers serving foreign clients to live and work legally in Kenya for 1-2 years. The income requirement is USD 24,000 per year, with a USD 200 processing fee and USD 1,000 annual permit fee.
What is the Kenya ETA and who needs it?
Since January 2024, Kenya replaced traditional tourist visas with the Electronic Travel Authorization (ETA). All foreign visitors must obtain an ETA before travel, except for East African Community (EAC) citizens from Uganda, Tanzania, Rwanda, Burundi, DRC, and South Sudan. The ETA costs USD 34 and allows stays up to 90 days for tourism or business.
Can I work remotely on a tourist ETA in Kenya?
Technically, the tourist ETA does not permit any form of work, including remote work. However, enforcement is minimal for digital nomads working remotely for foreign companies. For legal peace of mind and stays longer than 90 days, the Class N Digital Nomad Permit is recommended.
What are the income requirements for the Kenya Digital Nomad visa?
The Class N Digital Nomad Permit requires proof of a minimum annual income of USD 24,000 (approximately USD 2,000 per month) from sources outside Kenya. This was reduced from the initial USD 55,000 requirement in December 2024. You will need to provide bank statements from the last 3 months showing consistent income.
How long can I stay in Kenya as a digital nomad?
With the tourist ETA, you can stay up to 90 days, extendable once for another 90 days (180 days total). With the Class N Digital Nomad Permit, you can stay for 1-2 years initially, with annual renewals possible as long as you meet the eligibility requirements.
Will I be taxed on my foreign income in Kenya?
Kenya operates a territorial tax system. If you stay less than 183 days in a calendar year, you are not considered a tax resident and your foreign-sourced income is not taxable. However, if you stay 183+ days, you become a tax resident and may be taxed on worldwide income, subject to double taxation agreements.
Can I open a bank account in Kenya as a digital nomad?
Opening a traditional bank account is difficult for foreigners without a work permit and KRA PIN (tax registration). Most digital nomads use M-Pesa mobile money, which is widely accepted throughout Kenya, or international services like Wise and Payoneer for managing finances.
What is the cost of living in Kenya for digital nomads?
Nairobi offers affordable living by global standards. Expect to spend USD 1,200-2,500 per month depending on lifestyle. Rent ranges from USD 300-800 for a basic apartment to USD 1,500+ for upscale areas like Karen or Westlands. Popular nomad neighborhoods include Westlands, Kilimani, and Lavington. Diani Beach is popular for coastal living.
Is Kenya safe for digital nomads?
Kenya is generally safe for visitors, especially in major cities and tourist areas. Nairobi has improved significantly in recent years. Standard precautions apply: avoid walking alone at night in unfamiliar areas, use Uber instead of random taxis, and be aware of your surroundings. The digital nomad community in Nairobi is growing and supportive.
Where are the best coworking spaces in Kenya?
Nairobi has a thriving coworking scene with spaces like Nairobi Garage (150 Mbps internet), iHub (tech-focused), The Foundry Africa, Ikigai Nairobi, Jenga Leo, and Kofisi. Most offer day passes and monthly memberships. Popular neighborhoods for coworking include Westlands, Kilimani, and the CBD. Mombasa also has emerging coworking options.
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Important Disclaimer

Visa requirements can change frequently. This information is provided for general guidance only and should not be considered legal advice. Always verify current requirements with the official embassy or immigration authorities before making travel plans. Last updated: December 4, 2025

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