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Residency in Kenya.

Last activity 17 February 2012 by Harmonie

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linhut

HI all ! We are looking to start a small business in Kenya, does anyone know what the residency requirements are for this and for residency what capital are you required to have, Cheers.

per14

The work permit is mandatory.  It is usually paid by the employer but can be paid by yourself if you are starting your own company.  It is very difficult to get and it usually takes months.  Work permit are available in different classes (depending of your post, activity, etc.), from Class A to H, and is valid for a period of two years, renewable.

Can't tell you more, especially about the capital needed and if having Kenyan partner is required.  I suggest to come to Kenya as a tourist just to see what's going on, get contacts and see work opportunities.

In the meantime, you can visit the official website for the Department of Immigration, do no hesitate to contact them.

http://www.immigration.go.ke/index.php?id=14

TheBigBoss

awmwaura

Hi  i was just talking to our legal department regarding your query

Generally there are two ways to go about this,

1) the basic requirements are an investment of Ksh 10 million and proof that there is an existing business.
2)If the amount requested is a bit too much for you,the other option is getting a company that will apply for you a work permit.

The best place where to apply for this is in Nairobi where the immigration department is headquartered. The other offices round the country tend to delay and generally give applicants a hard time.
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per14

Hi awmwaura,

Maybe you can also help me with my questions?

I am planning to set up an NGO in Kenya. I am aware of the official procedures to follow through in order to register an NGO with the NGO's Coordination Board in Kenya. However, what is not clear to me is the type residence permit I need in order to get it done. Would a tourist visa be enough? Or is it necessary to apply for a "Class A-L" residence permit?

Also, I need to import a car in order to get around and getting things done. Do you know whether there are any requirements in  terms of a residence permit to do that?

Regards,
Ingo

Longonot62

Hi,

It is possible to apply for a visa as an investor.  You would normally need the following:
- To register a company, ideally with a Kenyan partner.  You can do this with a tourist visa - I have. Get a decent Lawyer to do this.
- You need to have assets of minimum 100 000 USD (approx Kes 8 million).  Assets can be cash and real estate (as long as it is not mortgaged).  Evidence, Bank Statements, title deeds etc are submitted at time of application.
- A letter to explain why you wish to invest in Kenya.
- Copy of passport, showing photo page and copies of all visa stamps, to date.
- Completed application.

The above are submitted to Nyayo House, in Nairobi and you can legelly stay in Kenya, while the application is under consideration.

Good Luck!

Jackysolo

In which town do you want to start your business ? The cost is not the same

Raven Cloud

Hello all I dont know if this were I ask this but here Ill try. I wish to move to Mombasa Im retired so what will it take for me and what kind a visa do I need thank you

Harmonie

Hi Raven and welcome to Expat.com!

Could you please start a new thread on the forum for better visibility.;)

Harmonie.

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