On 1st October 2024, the Government of Kenya officially implemented a Digital Nomad visa under the newly established Class N category. This visa provides a legal framework for foreign nationals who are employed or contracted by entities outside Kenya to reside in the country while working remotely.

The Digital Nomad visa allows individuals to live and work remotely from Kenya, provided they are not employed by or deriving income from entities within the country. It is specifically designed for:

• Employees of companies based outside Kenya
• Freelancers or consultants under contract with foreign-based clients

Visa holders are strictly prohibited from engaging in employment with Kenyan companies or participating in any commercial activity that generates income within the country.

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Eligibility requirements

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To qualify for the visa, applicants must meet the following criteria:

• Hold a valid passport.
• Provide proof of employment or business engagement with an entity located outside Kenya.
• Demonstrate sufficient income as defined by government regulations.
• Submit evidence of accommodation arrangements in Kenya.
• Present a police clearance certificate or similar documentation verifying a clean criminal record from their country of origin or residence.

Further requirements may apply, and applicants are advised to consult the most recent government guidance or seek professional legal advice before applying.

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Recent updates to the visa

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As of 29th May 2025, the Department of Immigration Services confirmed that the Digital Nomad visa is issued for a period of one or two years. The visa is renewable, subject to continued compliance with eligibility criteria and the submission of updated documentation where applicable.

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Application process

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Applications must be submitted via the Electronic Foreign Nationals Services (eFNS) portal. The application must include:

• A completed visa application form
• A copy of the applicant’s valid passport.
• A detailed and signed cover letter addressed to the Director General of Immigration Services, outlining the nature of the applicant’s employment or business, the location of their employer or clients, and the intended duration of stay.
• Additional supporting documents as required.

The government has not yet specified standard processing times or application fees. These are expected to be published in due course.

At this time, regulations concerning the eligibility of dependents, such as spouses or children, to accompany or join the primary applicant have not been published. Further information is anticipated in upcoming updates from the Department of Immigration Services.

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Should you have any queries regarding the above information or if you require assistance with your corporate, employment or immigration matter, please get in touch with a legal professional at Hudson McKenzie via email at londoninfo@hudsonmckenzie.com or by telephone +44(0) 20 3318 5794.

The information provided does not amount to legal advice.

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