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Foreigners can successfully and peacefully work and reside in Kenya, as long as a work and residence permit has been obtained. A work or residence permit is issued to allow a person to lawfully work and live in a particular country. The Ministry of Immigration in the Republic of Kenya issues work/ residence permits to non-Kenyans wishing to engage in employment in Kenya whether in gainful employment or voluntary service.

The main offices are located at Nyayo House in Nairobi. Foreigners engaging in any work in Kenya without a permit are committing an offense and can lead to immediate deportation and a ban from ever returning to Kenya.

Conditions

The key points to note when intending to apply for a permit are as follows:

1. The kind of business/investment/employment/residence you intend to get involved in determines the type of permit to be issued

2. Proper documentation in regard to the kind of work you intend to carry out in Kenya is not optional and all necessary licenses or authority to undertake the work should be provided

3. The work intended to be carried out should be legal in Kenya

The permits are classified from Class A to M and are issued in accordance with the Kenya Citizenship & Immigration Act 2011 of the Laws of Kenya.

PROCESS OF APPLICATION

The process commences at the application stage which is facilitated by the Department of Immigration on the Kenyan Immigration portal (https://fns.immigration.go.ke/). This is the official digital payments platform that enables foreign nationals to access and pay for government services online. One thus needs to first set up an account through the following link >> https://fns.immigration.go.ke/

An application form provided on the platform needs to be duly filled. Depending on the category or class of permit, the following need to be provided as you fill out the relevant application form. This applies to all types of permits:

• Cover letter from employer/self/organization; depending on the class
• Copies of the National Passport
• Two recent coloured passport-size photographs
• Application fees upon receipt of approval of the application
• The duly completed application forms are then submitted.

 Work permits are issued for a period of two years and so applications for renewal herein ought to be done three months prior to the expiry date. This is for purpose of giving the department ample time to properly verify the application so that the renewal can happen systematically. If employment or work comes to an end before the expiry of the work permit, the person will be required to surrender the work permit and the foreigner’s certificate to the immigration offices and then go back to his/her home country.

If the documents are in foreign languages, they should be translated into English by either the Embassy, Public Notary, or authorized or recognized institution.

TYPES OF PERMITS

1. CLASS A (Mining permits)

This permit is issued to persons who are planning to engage in prospecting for minerals or mining. The necessary licenses and registrations should be obtained. This can be obtained by inquiring with the State Department of Mining and registering for access to the Mining Cadastre Portal in person. Further instructions are provided for in the aforesaid entities. A processing fee of Kshs. 10,000 should be paid when applying for this permit. A copy of the Kenya Revenue Authority PIN certificate and current license will be required when renewing the permit.

2. CLASS B (Agricultural investors)

This one is issued to persons who intend to invest in Agriculture and Animal Husbandry. This involves farming generally and the business of raising livestock for food or other products and includes day-to-day care and selective breeding.

Requirements in applying for this permit include;

• Proof of land ownership or leasehold interest in land for purposes of carrying out the business herein,
• Proof of capital available for the purpose and clearance from relevant bodies. Also, a fee of Kshs. 100,000/= should be paid annually.

3. CLASS D (Employment permits)

This type of permit is issued to those who are offered specific employment by specific employers qualified to undertake that employment and whose engagement in that employment is beneficial to Kenya. Applying for this permit requires the applicant to produce copies of academic/professional certificates along with the curriculum vitae, evidence that the organization failed to fill the vacancy from the local labor market, form 25 duly filled, signed and sealed by the company employing. A processing fee of Kshs. 10,000 should be paid; this fee is non-refundable.

The annual fee for the permit is USD 2000 which translates to Kshs. 200,000 and the permit lasts for a period of two years. The applicant may also be required to provide a security bond amounting to Kshs. 100,000/= for a period of three years. This amount should be submitted together with the permit fee.

Employer and Employee Tax Compliance Certificates are required when renewing the permit.

4. CLASS G (Investor Permits)

This permit is issued to investors in specific trade, business, or consultancy. The investor may intend to invest alone or in partnership in a particular business or consultancy. He/she should obtain the necessary license or authority necessary to carry out the purpose, should have sufficient capital or resources to invest in the intended area and this investment should be beneficial to the Republic of Kenya.

Proper documents regarding the company or business should be provided; for instance, a certificate of incorporation, articles of association, copies of PIN certificate, and shareholding certificate also known as the CR12.

The investor should provide two copies of bank statements, a valid organizational tax compliance certificate, and also documentary proof of capital to be invested and this should be at least USD 100,000. He/she should indicate current immigration status if in the country already. All this information is required at the application stage.

When renewing the permit, audited accounts for the previous 2years and a certificate of tax compliance from the Kenya Revenue Authority are required.

The processing fee in this case is Kshs. 10,000/= and it is nonrefundable and Kshs. 100,000/= payable annually as the work permit fees.

5. CLASS I (Members of missionary societies)

This permit is issued to a member of a missionary society approved by the Government of Kenya and whose presence is beneficial to the country. It is also referred to as the permit regarding approved religious or charitable activities. This missionary society should be registered under the Society’s Act.

The applicant should provide a copy of the registration certificate of the organization, his/her academic and professional certificates, and the non-refundable processing fee of Kshs. 1,000/=. The applicant should also indicate the current immigration status if in the country already. In addition, the applicant should provide a valid organization Tax Compliance Certificate, and when renewing the permit, he/she should provide both organization and individual Tax Compliance Certificates from Kenya Revenue Authority.

The annual work permit fee is Kshs. 5,000/=.

6. CLASS K

It is a residence permit issued to those who have an assured income derived from sources outside and have agreed to not accept paid employment of any kind. Also known as Ordinary Residents’ Permit.

The applicant should not be less than thirty-five years of age, have an assured annual income of not less than USD 24,000/= derived from sources outside and will be remitted to Kenya, or is derived from pension or annuity payable from sources in Kenya. The applicant should not accept employment or engage in any work without a permit and whose presence in Kenya will be of benefit to Kenya.

The processing fee is Kshs. 10,000 and is non-refundable as well. The annual work permit fee is Kshs. 100,000/=.

7. CLASS M (Refugees)

This one is issued to Conventional Refugees. The applicant should provide recognition letters from UNHCR and the Department of Refugees Affairs and indicate the current immigration status. A valid organization Tax Compliance Certificate should be provided too, upon renewal the individual Tax Compliance Certificate should be provided in addition to the one for the organization as issued by the KRA. There is no charge for the processing fee and the permit.

Dependant Pass

Section 36 of the Citizenship and Immigration Act 2011 provides that passes shall be issued by immigration officers in such manner as shall be prescribed in regulations.

Section 27 of the Citizenship and Immigration Regulations of 2011 (Rev. 2018) stipulates that a person who is Kenya lawfully, is a Kenyan citizen, a person to whom Section 34(3) of the Act applies, has a work permit or is a permanent resident may apply on behalf of his/her dependant for a pass as stipulated in the regulations.

The immigration officer shall only issue a pass once he/she is satisfied that the ‘dependant’ indeed depends on the applicant, that the person is a spouse or a child of the applicant, that the applicant is able to sufficiently take care of the dependant while in the country, and that the applicant has observed any other key requirement as provided by law.

Upon completion of application of the Dependant pass, the applicant is required to pay Kshs. 5,000/= and the pass is valid for the period of the work permit

In conclusion, the digitization of processes has made it easy for foreign nationals to apply for various permits in Kenya. (Info c/o https://www.makaobora.co.ke/workpermit/

Full service apartments have become an increasingly popular accommodation option for travelers. Unlike traditional hotels or rental apartments, a furnished serviced apartment offers the comfort and convenience of a home away from home.

This growth can be attributed to the increasing demand for flexible and convenient accommodation options among business travelers, tourists, and ex-pats, as well as the rising popularity of alternative lodging options in general.

So, what exactly is a fully serviced apartment? A serviced apartment is a furnished accommodation with a wide range of amenities and services, including regular cleaning and maintenance, 24-hour security, and fully equipped kitchens.

Fully serviced apartments are designed to provide a comfortable and flexible living space that caters to the needs of both short-term and long-term stays.

Key takeaways:

• Fully serviced apartments are a popular accommodation option for travelers due to their comfort and convenience.
• Serviced apartments offer unique features and benefits such as personalized decor, fully equipped kitchens, sustainable living options, separate living and sleeping areas, and wellness amenities.
  Norfolk Towers is an ideal choice for those looking for a comfortable and stress-free stay with top-notch amenities.

Top 10 Features of Fully Serviced Apartments

Fully serviced apartments offer a range of unique features and benefits that set them apart from traditional accommodation options. Serviced apartments provide a comfortable and convenient home away from home for travelers.

1. Personalized décor and design
   Unlike traditional hotels, fully serviced apartments offer a personalized and unique living space. Guests can choose from different décor styles and designs that suit their tastes and preferences, creating a truly customized experience.

If you are looking for a serviced apartment that offers a distinct and out-of-the-box experience, consider Norfolk Towers.

2. Fully Equipped Kitchen

Serviced apartments have fully equipped kitchens, allowing guests to prepare their meals. This feature is helpful for guests who want to save money on food, have dietary restrictions, or prefer to cook their meals.

3. Separate living and sleeping areas

Serviced apartments typically have separate living and sleeping areas, providing guests with more space and privacy. This feature comes in handy for guests traveling with family or friends or those who want to work from home.

4. On-site laundry facilities

Serviced apartments typically have on-site laundry facilities, which allow guests to do their laundry without leaving the building. This feature is helpful for guests staying for an extended period or those who prefer to pack light.

5. Concierge services

Fully serviced apartments offer concierge services, which include arranging transportation, booking restaurants, and providing local recommendations. Such services are particularly useful for guests unfamiliar with the area or who need assistance with their itinerary.

6. Wellness amenities

Many serviced apartments now prioritize wellness amenities such as fitness centers, yoga studios, and swimming pools. These features allow guests to prioritize their health and wellness while on the road.

7. Flexible booking options

Serviced apartments offer flexible booking options, which allow guests to book for short or long stays. This facility is assistive to guests unsure about their travel plans or those who need to extend their stay.

8. Weekly housekeeping

Unlike traditional hotels, serviced apartments offer weekly housekeeping services, which include cleaning, changing linens, and replacing towels. It is helpful for guests who want a clean and organized living space without the hassle of daily cleaning.

All in all, serviced apartments offer a unique and customizable living experience that combines the comforts of home with the services of a hotel. This makes them an ideal choice for business and leisure travelers, families, and anyone who values space, privacy, and flexibility.

If you are looking for a fully serviced apartment for your next trip, consider Longonot Place for a comfortable and stress-free stay!

Hotels aren‘t really suitable for a long-term stay. On the other hand, you don‘t want to spend your free time cleaning up after a long and exhausting working day. Individual living solutions with high living comfort are the happy medium.

Serviced Apartments are the “golden mean” between the freedom and comfort of a furnished apartment as well as the security and service of a hotel. They fulfil these needs and are becoming increasingly popular for business trips. They solve the conflict between strict travel guidelines and cutbacks and fulfil the high expectations of business travelers.

With cosy and functional furnishing, they offer a much higher living comfort and are up to 40% cheaper than a hotel room. They also offer a higher added value with lower costs – good arguments to choose a Serviced Apartment!

However, the more detailed the offer and selection criteria, the more difficult it is to find suitable accommodation and make a decision. Consider the following tips when selecting the right Serviced Apartment.

1. Location
   The location is a crucial factor in the choice of accommodation and should be well considered wherever you are traveling to. To save costs, many travelers choose accommodation far from the city center, meaning the extra travel costs can quickly exceed the travel budget. Because of this, it is important to consider where it is really worth saving. To do so, ask yourself:
   • How far away is the workplace?
   • How good is the access to public transport?
   • Does the accommodation have a good local supply (supermarkets, restaurants, bars, etc.)?
   • If you travel by car, is a parking place or garage available?
   • If you don‘t want to stop playing sports on your trip, is there a fitness studio/swimming pool/park for jogging nearby?
   • If you are traveling as a family, are there any educational facilities, playgrounds, or leisure activities nearby?
2. Apartment/apartment equipment
   Serviced Apartments are designed like private apartments. They have a kitchen/kitchenette as well as a separate living area, mostly including a desk and free WIFI. But they can differ widely in size and furniture. The following points should be considered:
   • How much space do you need? How many people will be accommodated?
   • If you want to have guests visit, is there sufficient sleeping space?
   • If you are a business traveler, is there a suitable workspace?
   • To work from home without restrictions, does the accommodation have a good internet connection?
   • If you travel abroad, is there a TV with international programs?
   • Which kitchen appliances (dishwasher/coffee machine/toaster) are available?
   • If you want to take your pet with you, are animals allowed in the accommodation?
   • If you’re moving with children, does the apartment have child-friendly furniture (e. g. child’s bed)?
3. Service
   Serviced Apartments offer a wide range of services that vary widely in scope. Many facilities offer additional services such as sports, beauty and wellness services, interpreters, chauffeur services, and car rental, which can be booked by the guest and are – in some cases – even included in the price. Check beforehand:
   • What services (e. g. laundry, cleaning service, etc.) are included?
   • Is it possible to book additional services?
   • How is cleaning handled or is there only a cleaning service on check-out?
4. Finances
   Serviced Apartments are characterized by long-term rates and declining prices the longer you are staying. So, it’s especially worthwhile for project and business travelers who are looking for accommodation for a longer period of time. Nevertheless, you should think about the following points in advance:
   • What costs are included in the monthly rental?
   • Is a deposit required?
   • What are the costs for extra services?

Traditional hotels serve their purpose but if you’re looking for comfort and home-like living combined with the benefits of a hotel – serviced apartments are the way to go.

Fathers and father figures play an important role in the lives of children. They are motivators, mentors, friends, and confidants. Here are simple and meaningful ways to celebrate all of the dads in your life this coming Father’s Day weekend.

1. Throw a Themed Party

If you want to go all out this year, throwing a full-blown party for your dad (or partner) and all his favorite people fit the bill. Bonus points if you can give it a theme based on one of his favorite things or something he’s known for. Just remember: Go big or go home.

2. Host a Game Night

He taught you all his poker, Uno, and Monopoly tricks, now it’s time to literally beat him at his own game. Odds are the student won’t become the master when it comes to card and board games with Pa, but you’ll have a ton of fun trying to out-weasel him, that’s for sure.

3. Pack a Picnic

Fix up a bunch of his favorite foods and enjoy a picnic outside in your local park, or stay closer to home and eat al fresco in the garden or the front yard.

4. Have a Movie Night

Let Dad pick the film (even if it’s some obscure historical documentary you have no interest in). Let him choose the snacks, too.

5. Share Some Memories

Make a greatest hits video of your family over the years and get everyone seated to watch it together. Make sure to play it on the big screen so everyone can see it.

6. Work Out Together

Keep your dad in tip-top shape by cueing up a HIIT class on YouTube and getting a sweat on together. Or if that’s too much for him, try to get him to join you in your yoga class.

7. Watch His Favorite Musician

There are few things more memorable than experiencing live music by an artist you really love. Snag some tix to his favorite band, call up a babysitter if necessary, and enjoy a music-filled night to remember with your old man and/or hubby.

8. Go Golfing

Let him show off his stroke while you hone your skills. Alternatively, you can take him to watch a tournament where you can also grab some bites and drinks.

9. Fire Up the Grill

Let Dad try out those new barbecue tools that you just gifted him and offer up some yummy BBQ side recipes to boot. You’ll be looking at one very happy grill master when all is said and done.

10. Play a Video Game Together

Even if he isn’t the most technologically savvy, we bet he can get on board with games like Call of Duty: Black Ops 3.

11. Plan a Spa Day

He’d never admit it, but dads need some pampering, too. If a pedicure is too much for him, at least see if he’ll do a massage or face mask with you while watching his favorite show (and be sure to snap some pics if he agrees).

12. Host a Sports Tournament

He’s always bragging about what a great hooper he was back in his heyday so why not challenge that legendary athleticism? Go to the park or plan something in your backyard for a day of fun sporting activities. Think basketball, tennis, or football.

13. Curate a Playlist

Long before you were old enough to hit up karaoke bars, Dad was your first singing partner. Curate a playlist full of your favorite hits from back in the day and take a nice car ride like the old times. Songs like Luther Vandross’ “Dance with My Father,” and Bruce Springsteen’s “My Father’s House” are sure to bring tears to his eyes.

14. Treat Him to a Shopping Spree

You used to do damage to his credit card and now it’s his turn. Does he need to update his toolkit? Some new comfy sweats? A nice raincoat? Or maybe he just wants to splurge your money on a fancy leaf blower. Either way, let him go crazy with your money for a change. Dads don’t ask for much, so it’s always nice when the bill is on you.

15. Host a Beer Tasting

Call up breweries nearby and see if they’re able to host a small party for the dad in your life and a few close friends or family members. If not, bring the beers to you by ordering some craft ales from your neighborhood liquor store and let the sampling begin.

16. Enjoy the Great Outdoors

If you and your dad always bonded over camping trips or park visits, surprise him with an exciting day enjoying the great outdoors. You can either hit up a longtime favorite or test out a new location. ’Tis the season for hiking, fishing, and cycling, after all.

17. Get Sporty

Even if the dad in your life isn’t a hardcore sports fan, catching a random game can be a fun way to connect. Look for local basketball and soccer games, golf tournaments, or horse races—all are pretty common in June. If you’re really not into tagging along, you can always buy tickets and coordinate with his friends, then catch up afterward.

18. Plan a Guy’s Day

Speaking of spending time with the fellas, if moms out there are dying for some alone time, we can only imagine dads feel the same. So why not scoop the kids for a day, order his favorite foods, and let your love hang out with people who can string full sentences together for an afternoon? Or if he just wants some alone time, let him spend the day by himself too.

19. Take a Trip

Experience gifts are all the rage right now, so get in on the travel boom and take your favorite guy on a long weekend. Plan a daddy-daughter excursion to a lodge or cabin within three hours of home for a memorable adventure. You may find the car ride makes for some of the best conversations you’ve had in years.

20. Go Birdwatching

Birdwatching became a favorite pastime during the pandemic, but that doesn’t mean you still can’t partake. Take your favorite guy to a serene spot in the park and see what kinds of sky creatures you may run into. This is also a great opportunity to just check in, fill him in on everything that’s going on with you, and see how he’s doing as well.

21. Take a Hike

If you’re not prepared to go all in on a full weekend of roughing it in a tent, don’t worry—we all have our limits, after all. Instead, pack a satisfying picnic spread and schedule a day hike for some invigorating physical activity and time spent in nature. Bonus points if you make the experience extra special by picking a hike that culminates in an amazing scenic view.

22. Go for Ice Cream

Sometimes the best celebrations are the simplest ones—like treating someone to ice cream on a beautiful day. Whether it’s your own dad or the father of your kids, the guest of honor will surely appreciate this sweet and nostalgic activity involving everyone’s favorite frozen childhood treat.

There are many welcoming neighborhoods in Nairobi where foreigners can settle down. Newcomers should become acquainted with the various neighborhoods and suburbs of the city in terms of housing, healthcare, transportation, and proximity to places of employment and educational institutions. Nairobi has neighborhoods that are better suited to different types of residents:
single foreigners, families, and even a combination of both.
Consider the following areas:

Parklands
The Parklands neighborhood is located just to the north of Nairobi’s central
business district. Many young expats and students find an apartment to call home because it is conveniently located near Nairobi’s amenities. Parklands is home to some of Nairobi’s top hospitals, and the Karura Forest, which it borders, offers hiking trails and relaxing picnic spots.

Westlands
Westlands is a convenient area for young working professionals looking to live close to their place of employment because it is close to Nairobi’s city center and a part of Parklands. There are numerous stores, eateries, nightclubs, and bars in the area to keep tourists entertained. In contrast to the rest of Westlands, which favors apartment buildings, Spring Valley is the more tranquil area of Westlands, where bungalows and big detached houses are the norms. Some of the local housing is gated, and security personnel monitor entryways.

Kilimani and Hurlingham
In Kilimani and Hurlingham, there are numerous high-rise apartment buildings, many of which have swimming pools and round-the-clock security. The better complexes have extra amenities like health clubs, gyms, and saunas. The region is also home to a number of international schools and a wide range of entertainment venues, including shopping centers, movie theaters, dining establishments, and even a casino. In Hurlingham, freestanding townhouses are popular, while gated estates and both furnished and unfurnished apartments are available for rent and sale in Kilimani.

Lavington and Kileleshwa
Families with children frequently reside in bungalows with lush gardens or
contemporary apartments in Lavington and Kileleshwa. This region is home to numerous embassies in addition to private educational institutions like Nairobi International School. In addition to being close to some of Nairobi’s best museums and galleries, these areas provide a more cosmopolitan lifestyle. Additionally, they are close to the city’s core.

Lang’ata
The residential neighborhood of Lang’ata is located to the southwest of Nairobi’s downtown (or Langata). Both wealthy locals and middle-class expats prefer Lang’ata’s estates, which are gated, secure compounds with maisonettes and apartment buildings. Lang’ata life meets a variety of needs. Both young and old newcomers can enjoy the touristy atmosphere, and nearby attractions like Nairobi National Park, the Giraffe Centre, the Bomas of Kenya, and Uhuru Gardens, as well as live music at The Carnivore Grounds, can be highly recommended. The accessibility of private schools will also be appreciated by parents of expats.

Karen
Karen is a posh and exclusive neighborhood in Nairobi. Rich foreigners can choose from a wide selection of upscale homes in Karen, including roomy townhouses with sizable gardens. The area is well known for its many private schools and kindergartens, as well as Karen’s golf course. In addition, Karen provides a variety of fine dining establishments and contemporary shopping centers.

Runda
North of the city center, Runda is a self-contained area encircled by forests. Employees of these organizations will find it convenient to live here because of its proximity to the US Embassy and the UN complex. Large, contemporary homes on sizable lots typically serve as the primary form of lodging in these areas. Because there are numerous kindergartens and primary and secondary international schools
nearby, Runda is well-liked by expats with children. Additionally, both public and
private transportation can get you to the area.

Muthaiga
Given that it is the residence of some of the wealthiest Kenyans and wealthy foreigners, Muthaiga is frequently referred to as the “Beverly Hills of Nairobi.” In Muthaiga, the majority of residences are gated, safe, and guarded round-the-clock. Parents who have kids appreciate being close to several top international schools.
The country clubs in the area offer excellent sporting and recreational opportunities for expats in Muthaiga. Nairobi neighborhoods for young professionals