The Government of Kenya has announced a new work permit for employees of international non-governmental organizations (NGOs) working or residing in the country.
The permit, which comes with a fee exceeding Sh150,000, was introduced following amendments to the Kenya Citizenship and Immigration Regulations Act, gazetted by Acting Interior Cabinet Secretary Musalia Mudavadi.
Under the new regulations, diplomatic employees will face a processing fee of approximately Sh26,000, with an annual renewal fee of about Sh130,000. “These amendments aim to strengthen work permit regulations, promoting national interests through enhanced digital jobs, regional integration, and increased foreign exchange for the Government, while ensuring Kenya remains an attractive international financial hub,” Mudavadi stated on Tuesday, December 17.
Read also: Government launches Task Force to tackle Business Exodus
The new permit, referred to as Class PT, will be issued to staff from the United Nations, diplomatic missions, inter-governmental organizations, and international NGOs. The government will collect the fees in US dollars, viewing this as an opportunity to generate additional foreign currency, given that many diplomatic staff are compensated in USD.
Mudavadi highlighted that Kenya’s appeal to diplomatic personnel stems from its security, peace, and stability, along with quality international schools, healthcare, and recreational facilities.
Additionally, on October 1, 2024, the government introduced a Class ‘N’ permit to cater to the growing number of digital nomads—young professionals working remotely for foreign companies and residing in Kenya.
