Kenya has recently joined the growing list of countries offering a Digital Nomad Visa, designed to attract remote workers from around the globe. This initiative is part of Kenya’s broader strategy to boost tourism, stimulate the local economy, and foster innovation and entrepreneurship. This article provides a detailed overview of the Digital Nomad Visa, Class N permit, requirements and importance.
What is a Digital Nomad Visa?
A Digital Nomad Visa is a temporary permit that allows remote workers to live and work in a foreign country. These visas are specifically designed for individuals who work remotely, either as employees, freelancers, or business owners, for companies or clients established outside the host country. The visa typically does not allow holders to engage in local employment.
Kenya’s Digital Nomad Visa
Kenya’s Digital Nomad Visa, also known as the Digital Nomad Work Permit, Class N permit, was announced by President William Ruto on October 2, 2024, during the Magical Kenya Travel Expo. The introduction of the Class N (Digital Nomad) Permit under the Kenya Citizenship and Immigration (Amendment) Regulations, 2024, reflects the country’s commitment to attracting global talent. This permit offers foreign remote workers, freelancers, and online entrepreneurs the opportunity to live and work in Kenya while serving clients or companies based outside the country.
Who Qualifies for the Class N Permit?
The permit is issued to foreigners who meet the following criteria:
- Remote Employees: Individuals employed under a contract by a company registered outside Kenya.
- Business Owners: Shareholders or representatives conducting business on behalf of a foreign company.
- Freelancers: Self-employed individuals offering services to clients located outside Kenya.
Applicants must not be classified as prohibited immigrants and must demonstrate their ability to sustain themselves financially during their stay.
Requirements for Class N Permit
To apply for the Class N Permit, applicants must:
- Possess a valid passport with at least 6 months of validity
- Have verifiable proof of remote work, such as contracts or business operations outside Kenya
- Proof of a minimum assured annual income of USD 24,000 from non-Kenyan sources
- Provide proof of accommodation in Kenya (hotel booking, lease, or rental agreement)
- Hold a clean criminal record certificate from their country of habitual residence
- Undertake in writing:
- Not to accept any form of employment (paid or unpaid) within Kenya
- Not to engage in any income-generating activity involving Kenyan-based companies or clients
- That their presence in Kenya will be of benefit to the country (economic, cultural, or otherwise)
Required Documents for Class N (Digital Nomad) Permit
- Duly filled and signed Form 25: Available online through the Republic of Kenya electronic Foreign Nationals Services (eFNS) Portal.
- Two recent passport-sized colored photographs.
- Copy of a valid national passport: Must have at least six months of validity.
- Current immigration status: If already in Kenya.
- Detailed cover letter: Signed by the applicant, addressed to the Director General of Immigration Services, explaining the nature of employment or business, location, and duration of stay.
- Employer’s cover letter: Addressed to the Director General of Immigration Services.
- Proof of income: Bank statements or payslips for the last three months showing a stable monthly income.
- Proof of accommodation: Hotel reservations, lease agreements, or rental contracts.
- Letter of no objection: From the local embassy of the applicant’s home country.
- Company details: Including physical address, telephone number, email address, and contact person information.
Fees Payable
| Fee Type | Amount (USD) |
| Processing Fee (Non-refundable) | $200 |
| Permit Issuance Fee (Per year) | $1,000 |
N.B All fees are payable via the official eCitizen Portal after the application is approved.
Importance of the Digital Nomad Visa
The introduction of the Digital Nomad Visa in Kenya holds several significant benefits:
- Boosting Tourism: By attracting digital nomads, Kenya aims to increase its international tourist numbers from two million in 2023 to five million by 2027. Digital nomads often stay for extended periods, contributing to the local economy through tourism and daily expenditures.
- Economic Stimulation: The presence of digital nomads can stimulate various sectors of the economy, including real estate, hospitality, and coworking spaces. Increased demand for rentals and coworking spaces can lead to growth in the real estate market.
- Fostering Innovation and Entrepreneurship: Digital nomads bring diverse skills and experiences, fostering a culture of innovation and collaboration. This can lead to the development of new business ideas and startups, contributing to Kenya’s growing startup ecosystem.
- Enhancing Global Connectivity: Kenya’s robust digital infrastructure, including high-speed internet and tech hubs, makes it an attractive destination for remote workers. This enhances global connectivity and positions Kenya as a prime destination for digital professionals.
Application Process
The application process for the Class N Permit involves the following steps:
- Online Registration: Create an account on the Kenya Foreign Nationals Portal.
- Form Submission: Complete and submit Form 25 along with the required documents.
- Processing Fee Payment: Pay the non-refundable processing fee of USD 200.
- Review and Approval: The Directorate of Immigration Services reviews the application.
- Issuance Fee Payment: Upon approval, pay the annual issuance fee of USD 1,000.
- Permit Endorsement: The permit is either digitally issued or stamped in the applicant’s passport.
Benefits of the Class N Permit
Class N Permit offers several advantages:
- Legal Residency: Enables digital nomads to live in Kenya while working remotely.
- Access to Kenya’s Vibrant Lifestyle: Enjoy Kenya’s rich culture, natural beauty, and modern amenities.
- Networking Opportunities: Connect with a growing community of remote professionals and entrepreneurs.
Conclusion
Kenya’s Digital Nomad Visa is a significant step towards attracting global talent and boosting the local economy. By providing remote workers with the opportunity to live and work in Kenya, the country aims to position itself as a leading destination for digital nomads. With its blend of natural wonders, cultural richness, and growing digital infrastructure, Kenya is set to become a prime destination for remote workers seeking adventure and inspiration in the heart of East Africa.
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)
Q: Can I take on local clients with this permit?
A: No, the Class N Permit strictly authorizes work for foreign entities only. For local employment, different permits are required.
Q: Are there regional restrictions within Kenya?
A: No, you may reside anywhere in Kenya; however, most nomads prefer Nairobi, Mombasa, Naivasha, and Kisumu, among other cities, due to their better infrastructure.
Q: Can this permit lead to Kenyan citizenship?
A: While not directly, continuous legal residence can contribute towards citizenship eligibility requirements over time.
Q: How long is the Class N Permit valid?
A: The permit is issued for a period of one (1) or two (2) years and is renewable upon continued eligibility and compliance.
Q: What is the minimum income required to apply?
A: You must have a stable annual income of at least USD 24,000, equivalent to USD 2,000 per month, earned from sources outside Kenya.
Q: Do I need a job offer or employment letter to apply?
A: Yes, if you are employed, you’ll need to provide a letter from your employer based outside Kenya. If you are self-employed or a freelancer, you must submit contracts, invoices, or portfolio evidence showing ongoing engagements with international clients.
Q: Can I bring my spouse or dependents on a Class N Permit?
A: Yes, you may apply for dependent passes for your spouse and children. Each dependent must meet the required documentation and will be evaluated separately by the Directorate of Immigration.
How Njaga & Co. Advocates LLP Can Assist You
At Njaga & Co. Advocates LLP, we provide comprehensive, client-focused support across the entire spectrum of immigration and citizenship services in Kenya. Our team of experienced immigration lawyers ensures every process is handled professionally, lawfully, and efficiently, giving clients the peace of mind that all applications comply fully with Kenyan laws and regulations.
Our Immigration & Foreign National Services Include:
- Work & Investment Permits – advisory, application, renewal, and appeal for all classes of permits (A to R) under the Kenya Citizenship and Immigration Act, 2011.
- Dependent, Student, and Visitor Passes – processing and renewals for family members, scholars, missionaries, and expatriates.
- Foreign Nationals Registration (Alien Cards) – registration of foreigners residing in Kenya beyond 90 days, replacements, and recordal of changes.
- Citizenship & Residency – guiding clients through citizenship by registration, marriage, or permanent residence applications.
- Visa Applications & Extensions – support in securing business, investor, multiple-entry, and visitor visas through the eFNS platform.
- Appeals & Reviews – representation before the Director-General of Immigration, Cabinet Secretary, and the Kenya Citizenship & Immigration Service Appeals Tribunal for denied or revoked permits.
- Regularization & Compliance – assistance with rectification, conversions, or status updates for individuals or corporates managing expatriate staff.
- Corporate Immigration Advisory – compliance audits, expatriate quota management, and ongoing support for companies employing foreign nationals.
- Re-entry & Visitor Pass Extensions: Ensuring lawful continuity of stay.
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