Visa to live in Kenya

Member since 05 August 2021

milkafisihaMember05 August 2021 13:02:14

How do you obtain resident visa for a couple that are British and American nationals?
We are both originally from Ethiopia and would love to call Kenya our new home.

We are really keen to work and contribute to Kenya in areas such as agriculture, community projects, sports, psychology and education.

Specifically looking at moving to Malindi area.

Thank you so much for your support.

MillennialMom Member

Member since 19 July 2021

MillennialMomMember05 August 2021 15:47:12

E-citizen.

Longonot62 Kenya Advisor

Member since 05 March 2010

Longonot62Kenya Advisor07 August 2021 08:11:12

1515

Hi, there is no 'resident visa' as such and you would not be eligible for permanent residence until after 7 years.聽聽There are various permits and passes, some of which permit work and some which do not.聽 Many of these are renewable on a 2 yearly cycle.

Although you might be keen to work and contribute, Kenyan immigration law does not support this (even voluntary work), without a work permit.聽 For employment, the employer essentially applies on your behalf, having first established that the post cannot be filled from the local workforce pool.聽 This type of work permit cannot be applied for within Kenya.

For married couples there is the option for one gaining a work permit, then the other can apply for a Dependent Pass, though it should be noted that a Dependent Pass prohibits any kind of work paid, or voluntary.

For running your own business, although the registration process is straightforward and low cost, to legally operate your business you need a proven $100,000 minimum capital, to qualify to apply for the relevant permit.

This is only a basic outline.聽 There are plenty of posts on this site on this subject and more information can be gained here: