Category: Residency Visa / Residence Permit
Overview: The Kenya Residency Visa, or Residence Permit, allows foreign nationals to live long-term in Kenya for various purposes including employment, investment, family reunion, or independent means. It is renewable and serves as the foundation for long-term settlement.
Eligibility: Applicants must hold a valid passport, demonstrate a clear purpose for residence (e.g., employment contract, investment plan, sufficient funds), and typically require a clean criminal record. Specific criteria vary significantly by permit class.
Processing Time: ~90 days
Visa Duration: 12 months
Renewable: Yes
Work Authorisation: Not permitted
Remote Work Allowed: No
Dependants Allowed: No
Path to Residency: Yes
Path to Citizenship: Yes
Sponsor Required: No
Official Government Page: https://fns.immigration.go.ke/
Summary: Allows long-term stay in Kenya for work, investment, family, or retirement. Eligibility varies by permit class (e.g., employee, investor, retiree), requiring specific documentation and financial proof. Main benefit is legal long-term residence.