Kenya has surpassed many other African countries simply because of its people. There are about 42 tribes in Kenya that consists of different languages and ethnic groups – Kenyan people are diverse and their uniqueness is visibly abundant. They have two official languages in Kenya – English and Swahili, but since Kenya is such a popular business destination, you can expect to hear a lot more than just their official languages.
Not only is Kenya a culture-rich country, but it offers from different types of living, so you have the luxury to choose what would suit you best. From city living to having a true African lifestyle with the wildlife around you (Giraffes, zebras, ostrich and more).
Kenya has so much to offer, from having the largest salt water lake in the world, to having a better democracy than most of Africa which makes it a fantastic destination to set up a business since it is easier!
In this article we will give you a short update on the current changes in Kenya as well as some types of Visas they have to offer!
Airport
- The government of Kenya has compiled a list of hospitals that will be used for Covid-19 tests and the results will be send via email. Please ensure that you make use of these hospitals listed as there are speculations that people have been using forged Covid-19 certificates at the Airport.
- Citizens of the following countries requires a visa to enter Kenya, but note that it cannot be obtained online, but instead has to be done in advance through a Kenyan Embassy: Afghanistan, Armenia, Azerbaijan, Cameroon, Democratic People’s Republic of Korea, Eritrea, Iraq, Kosovo, Lebanon, Libya, Mali, Palestine, Senegal, Somalia, Syria, Tajikistan.
Immigration
- The DIS has reviewed the eligibility requirements for special passes and going forward they will require all Special Pass applications to be accompanied by a contract of employment or an engagement letter. Applicants are required to comply irrespective of the proposed duration of stay in the country. The contract of employment or letter of engagement can be for a fixed term (1 – 6 months) or open ended depending on the duration of the assignment in Kenya.
- A visitor will not be able to get multi-entry visa online. This can only be issued by immigration offices in Nairobi headquarters. Therefore, an applicant will apply for single entry on the e-visa portal, upon confirmation and arrival in the country then go to Immigration offices 7th to apply for multi-entry visa.
- The immigration department will request additional documents if they feel that the documentation you provided are not sufficient. A letter to the Director or HR has been sent by the immigration department requesting a meeting regarding applications of various work visas. The reason behind this is so the Director or HR can explain in detail why they are employing expatriates, instead of local Kenyans
- A few companies in Kenya are on the red flag list because they retrenched employees during the pandemic and are now employing expatriates in stead because they are more affordable.
- Some good news is that the immigration department are now issuing alien cards in about 4 weeks time, which is less time than the previous records of 6-8 weeks.
Movement Restrictions
- A curfew is set in place from 10:00pm to 4:00am where no individual is allowed to leave there place of residence, with exception to front-line workers or in the event of an emergency.
- Passengers arriving or departing Kenya during curfew hours will be allowed to proceed if they have a valid plane ticket and boarding pass.
If you need any assistance we offer the following:
Visa Extension:
- IBN can help any individual who is currently located in Kenya who has a visa that will be expiring and need their visa to be extended in order for them to stay longer in the country.
Retirement Permit (Class K)
- If you are looking to retire somewhere you can enjoy the beauty and nature of Africa, we can help! IBN can assist you with the process to obtain a retirement visa(permit). This visa is issued to any individual who is no less than thirty-five years (35) of age; and has an assured annual income of no less than USD 24,000 that is derived from sources other than employment, occupation, trade, business or profession. So an individual should have an income that is derived from sources outside, and will be remitted to Kenya; or is derived from pension or annuity payable from sources in Kenya.
If you meet the above requirements you might be eligible to retire in Kenya.
Investor Permit (Class G)
This visa(permit) is issued to an individual who intends to engage, whether alone or in partnership, in a specific trade, business, consultancy or profession (other than a prescribed profession) in Kenya, and who;
- Has obtained any license, registration or other authority or permission that may be necessary for the purpose;
- Has sufficient capital and other resources for the purpose;
- Whose engagement in trade, business, consultancy or profession will be of benefit to Kenya.
If you need any assistance in obtaining one of these Visas, or want to know more options, do not hesitate to contact us!
Stay updated by signing up for our newsletter HERE
Want to speak to an expert regarding your immigration needs, contact us!
By Sylvia Waiganjo
