Class D Work Permit in Kenya

Class D Work Permit in Kenya

A Class D Work Permit (or an Employment Permit) is required for foreign nationals seeking employment in Kenya. This immigration work permit allows expatriates to live and work in the country, provided they meet the necessary qualifications and requirements.

Who Qualifies for a Class D Work Permit?

To be eligible for a Class D work permit, a foreign national must:

✅ Have a valid job offer from a Kenyan employer.
✅ Possess skills and qualifications not readily available in the local labor market.
✅ Have an employer willing to sponsor their application and provide supporting documents.

While the permit is primarily issued to expatriates with specialized skills, foreign-owned businesses may also secure work permits for key strategic employees at the discretion of the immigration authorities.

Application Process for a Class D Work Permit

The employing company must apply on behalf of the foreign national. To improve the chances of approval, all required documents should be prepared and submitted correctly.

Required Documents for a Class D Work Permit Application

When applying for a work permit in Kenya, the following documents must be submitted:

📌 For the Employee (Applicant):
✔ Copy of passport (bio-data page).
✔ Passport-size photograph (recent).
✔ Copies of academic and professional certificates.
✔ Curriculum Vitae (CV) detailing work experience and qualifications.
✔ Tax Compliance Certificate (if applicable).
✔ PIN Certificate (if applicable).

📌 For the Employer (Company/Organization):
✔ Copy of the Certificate of Incorporation.
✔ Company PIN Certificate.
✔ Tax Compliance Certificate.
✔ A duly executed immigration application Form 22.
✔ Cover letter from the employer explaining the need for the foreign hire.
✔ Contact details of the employer (email, phone number, postal and physical address).

📌 For the Understudy (if required):
✔ Name and contact information of the Kenyan understudy assigned to train under the foreign employee.
✔ Copies of the understudy’s academic qualifications and CV.

How long does it take to process a Class D work permit in Kenya?

• The processing time for a Class D work permit varies, so applying well in advance is advisable.
• Renewals require a fresh application and supporting documents to justify continued employment.
• The immigration department reserves the right to approve or reject applications based on national employment priorities.