Kenya's Class G Investor Permit enables foreign nationals to establish and operate a business in the country independently. The permit covers specific trade, business, consultancy, or non-prescribed professions and requires a minimum capital investment of USD 100,000. It is Kenya's most flexible investor category and the primary investment-based immigration route for non-EAC foreign nationals, as the country does not offer a separate golden visa or citizenship-by-investment program. Note that East African Community (EAC) nationals now use the Class R permit (gratis) rather than Class G following 2024 regulatory amendments.
The application follows a multi-step process. First, register on the Government of Kenya Single Sign-On portal and access the eFNS portal (fns.immigration.go.ke) to submit Form 25 with the KES 20,000 non-refundable processing fee. Second, register with KenInvest and submit an investment application to obtain a recommendation letter. The Permit Determination Committee reviews the application and makes recommendations to the Director of Immigration. Upon approval, a permit fee invoice of KES 250,000 is issued, payable via RTGS at Kenya Commercial Bank within 30 days. A security bond (approximately KES 10,000) from a licensed insurance company must also be obtained. The permit is collected in person at Nyayo House, Nairobi.
Processing time: 10–15 working days from submission (total process including all steps: 13–19 days).
Fees: KES 20,000 processing (non-refundable) + KES 250,000/year issuance + approximately KES 10,000 security bond + KES 5,000/year alien card.
The permit is typically issued for 2 years and is renewable unlimited times. Renewal requires the full application process with updated documentation including audited financial statements for the previous two years, current tax compliance certificates, and an employment list of Kenyan staff. The permit becomes invalid if the holder fails to engage in the authorised activity within 90 days of issuance or ceases the activity.
Spouse and children may apply for a Dependant's Pass using Form 28 via the eFNS portal. Required documents include valid passports, relationship evidence (marriage or birth certificates), proof of sufficient income, and a sworn affidavit of dependency. The sponsor's work permit must have at least 6 months' validity remaining. The issuance fee is KES 10,000 per year with a KES 5,000 processing fee. EAC nationals receive the pass free of charge. Dependant's Pass holders cannot engage in employment or business activity; a separate student pass is required for education.
Kenya taxes residents on worldwide income and non-residents on Kenya-sourced income only. Individuals present 183 or more days per year, or averaging 122 or more days per year over three years, or maintaining a permanent home in Kenya are considered tax resident. Progressive individual income tax rates range from 10% to 35%. A personal relief of KES 28,800 per annum is available to residents. Kenya has double taxation agreements with several countries providing foreign tax credits. Permit holders must maintain valid tax compliance certificates from the Kenya Revenue Authority (KRA) for both the individual and the company throughout the permit period.
Holders who maintain the permit for at least 7 years and have been continuously resident in Kenya for 3 years preceding the application may apply for permanent residence (Category B) under Section 37 of the Kenya Citizenship and Immigration Act, 2011. Permanent residence processing fee is KES 50,000 with issuance fees of KES 100,000–750,000 depending on category. After 7 years of permanent residence, holders may apply for Kenyan citizenship.