Acting Interior Cabinet Secretary Musalia Mudavadi has announced new regulations under the Kenya Citizenship and Immigration (Amendment) Regulations, 2024, revising work permit classes and charges for foreigners.
In a press statement dated Tuesday, December 17, Mudavadi explained that the changes aim to address concerns raised by stakeholders while positioning Kenya as an attractive destination for expatriates.
Below are the new work permit classes and their respective charges:
Class P
This new permit category applies to employees of international organizations, including the United Nations and diplomatic missions.
- Processing Fee: $200
- Annual Fee: $1,000
“Those eligible for the new Permit (P) will pay a lower fee but in United States dollars. These workers are typically paid in foreign currency, providing an opportunity for the government to earn foreign exchange,” the statement read.
Class N
Class N permits cater to foreigners residing in Kenya while working remotely for overseas companies, including digital nomads and freelancers.
Eligible professions include:
- ICT professionals
- Project managers
- Graphic designers
- Virtual assistants
- Programmers
- Writers, consultants, and other freelance workers
- Eligibility: Annual income reduced from $55,000 to $24,000
- Fees: $200 processing fee and $1,000 annual fee
Class Q
This permit is tailored for professionals working with religious or non-profit organizations.
- Annual Fee: KSh 100,000
- Processing Fee: KSh 20,000
Class R (East African Community Citizens)
Mudavadi introduced a new category for citizens of East African Community (EAC) member states.
- Consolidates applicants regardless of their description, including investors, skilled and unskilled workers, traders, farmers, and manufacturers.
- Fees: Exempt for all EAC citizens upon proof of their citizenship.
Mudavadi highlighted that the changes align with Kenya’s vision to attract foreign talent while supporting economic growth through innovation and investment.
“These revisions ensure fairness and affordability while maintaining Kenya’s competitiveness as a hub for global professionals,” Mudavadi stated.
