With Kenya positioning itself as a regional hub for digital professionals, diplomatic missions, and intergovernmental operations, the government has introduced new classes of work permits to address new and emerging professional categories. These changes were introduced through Legal Notices published in January 2025.
This article provides an in-depth legal overview of these new permit classes, the revised scope of Class I permits, and the updated eligibility criteria. It is tailored for foreign nationals, expats, remote workers, and legal advisors seeking to understand Kenya’s immigration framework.
Overview of Kenya Work Permit Classes
Under the Kenya Citizenship and Immigration Regulations, 2012, Kenya historically offered work permits under categories such as:
- Class A–D: Covering mining, agriculture, prescribed professions, and specific employment roles.
- Class F & G: For manufacturing and business/consultancy activities.
- Class I, K, and M: For religious workers, ordinary residents, and refugees respectively.
The latest legal amendments restrict the scope of Class I and introduce four new classes: Class N, P, Q, and R.
Class N Permit – For Digital Nomads in Kenya
Who is eligible?
This new permit targets remote workers and digital nomads who wish to reside in Kenya while working for foreign-based employers or clients.
Key requirements:
- Must be employed or contracted by a foreign company or self-employed with exclusively foreign clients.
- Should be a shareholder or representative of a foreign-registered company.
- Must earn a minimum of USD 24,000 annually.
- Must not be a Prohibited Immigrant under Kenyan law.
Permit validity and fees:
- Valid for 1–2 years, renewable.
- Processing Fee: USD 200
- Annual Permit Fee: USD 1,000
This permit aligns with Kenya’s ambition to attract tech talent and digital freelancers globally.
Class P Permit – For International and Diplomatic Personnel
Who qualifies?
Staff working with:
- United Nations agencies
- Diplomatic missions
- Inter-Governmental Organizations (IGOs)
- International NGOs accredited to operate in Kenya or its neighbouring countries experiencing hardship (e.g. Somalia, South Sudan).
Benefits:
- Enables foreign personnel and their families to reside in Kenya while working in neighbouring regions.
- Supports Kenya’s status as an East African diplomatic hub.
Fees:
- Processing Fee: USD 200
- Annual Permit Fee: USD 1,000
Class Q Permit – For Religious and Charitable Professionals
Who should apply?
Professionals (e.g. doctors, teachers, engineers) employed by religious or charitable organizations, such as faith-based hospitals, schools, or missions, excluding those involved in religious preaching or rituals.
Requirements:
- Employment by a society or trust registered in Kenya.
- The contribution must be of benefit to Kenya.
- Replaces such applicants previously covered under Class I.
Fees:
- Processing Fee: KSh 20,000
- Annual Permit Fee: KSh 100,000
Class R Permit – For Citizens of EAC Partner States
This new class reflects Kenya’s commitment to the East African Community (EAC) and its principles of free movement of labour.
Eligibility:
- Must be a citizen of an EAC member state (e.g. Uganda, Rwanda, Burundi, Tanzania, South Sudan).
- Must not be a prohibited immigrant.
- Must prove that their presence is of benefit to Kenya.
Fees:
- Gratis (Free of Charge)
Use cases:
- Ideal for EAC professionals, traders, or investors who previously applied under Class D or G.
Amendments to Class I Permit – Now Restricted to Clergy and Missionaries
The Class I permit is now strictly limited to religious leaders directly involved in preaching, pastoral, or worship activities.
Conditions:
- Must be working with a body registered under the Societies Act, Cap 108.
- Must show benefit to Kenya.
- Professionals in non-religious roles (like teachers or medics) must now apply under Class Q.
Fees:
- Processing Fee: Free (Gratis)
- Annual Permit Fee: KSh 20,000
Important Notes for Applicants
- Always confirm the latest requirements and permit fees before applying, as the government may revise these at any time.
Need Legal Help With a Work Permit in Kenya?
If you are a foreign national, employer, or consultant looking to apply for or renew a work permit in Kenya, it is essential to work with an experienced immigration lawyer who understands Kenya’s evolving legal environment.
MasiboLaw offers expert immigration legal services, including:
- Work permit applications and renewals
- Digital nomad visa support
- Employer sponsorship advisory
- Compliance with Kenya’s immigration laws
📍 Visit us: www.masibolaw.co.ke
📧 Email us: info@masibolaw.co.ke
Let us help you secure your legal right to live and work in Kenya—reliably and lawfully.
MasiboLaw 
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