If you're planning to work, do business, invest, or volunteer in Kenya, you'll need a Kenyan work permit. You should have it in place before you arrive, since living and working in the country without one isn't legal.

Kenya has several classes of work permits. Which one you need depends on the work you'll do: taking a job with a Kenyan employer, practising a regulated profession, investing, or running your own business.

You'll need a permit whether you're a professional, an entrepreneur, an investor, or a volunteer. Retirees and others who live on outside income use a residence permit rather than a work permit (see Class K below). If you work without the right permit, your stay can be cut short, and you can face steep penalties.

Types of work permits for Kenya

The types of work permits in Kenya are grouped into classes according to the work you'll do. Most foreign workers use one of three. Class C is for regulated professions, Class D for employees, and Class G for investors and business owners. Two newer routes, Classes N and R, are worth knowing about as well.

Class C: Prescribed profession permits

Under Kenya's immigration rules, certain jobs are counted as 'prescribed professions', among them doctors, lawyers, architects, engineers, accountants, and ICT specialists. If you work in one of these fields, you'll need to register with the relevant professional body in Kenya before you can practise. To register, you'll need the right academic qualifications, any required training or internships, a completed application form, and supporting documents.

As with the other permit classes, it's worth getting advice from a relocation professional or from the Kenyan high commission or embassy in your country. That way, you'll know which category fits and what's expected of you. A number of relocation agencies in Kenya can help with the move itself.

Relocation Agencies in Kenya

Class D: Employment permits

Class D is the permit for a specific job with a single employer. It's meant for workers whose skills or qualifications aren't readily available in Kenya, and whose employment will benefit the country.

Class D is the route to take if you've already got a job lined up. You'll complete Form 25 (the employer completes Form 27) and provide the necessary documents. Your employer signs a cover letter and usually handles the application on your behalf.

To protect Kenyan workers, the immigration authorities have tightened the rules. For most Class D applications, your employer has to show that it advertised the role and couldn't fill it locally, and it must name a Kenyan understudy who will be trained to take over the position in time.

Class G: Specific trade, business or consultancy permits

Class G is the permit for investors and for anyone who sets up a business or consultancy in Kenya. You'll submit the application forms (Form 25 and Form 27 for investors), a signed cover letter, a solid business plan, and proof that the business is registered. You'll also need proof of at least USD 100,000 in capital investment, along with tax compliance certificates.

Foreign nationals run all kinds of businesses in Kenya: hospitality and tourism, tech startups, agribusiness, and professional consultancies, among them. Whatever the venture, you'll need to back the capital requirement with bank statements or other financial records, and you must deposit the money into the company's Kenyan bank account.

Class N: Remote work permits

Class N is a newer route for anyone who lives in Kenya but works remotely for a foreign employer. If your income comes entirely from abroad and you don't work for a Kenyan company, this may suit you better than a standard work permit. It's worth checking the current requirements before you apply, as this is a recent route.

Class R: East African Community permits

Class R is for citizens of East African Community member states who want to live and work, run a business, trade, or practise a profession in Kenya. It's currently issued without processing or issuance fees for eligible EAC nationals, although you'll still need to provide the usual supporting documents.

Applying for a work permit for Kenya

Applying for a work permit for Kenya is a detailed but manageable process, and nearly all of it happens online before you travel. The main steps are:

• Create an account: Set up an account on the eCitizen platform. You'll apply through its electronic Foreign Nationals Services (eFNS) portal.
• Complete the application: Fill out the relevant form and select the permit class for your situation, such as employment (Class D) or business (Class G).
• Gather your documents: You'll need a cover letter from your employer, copies of your passport, two passport-sized photos, and any other materials required for your permit class, like an employment contract, training certificates or qualifications, or proof of funds.
• Submit and pay: Once your application is complete, submit it online and pay the fees. You may also need to visit the immigration office at Nyayo House in Nairobi to provide biometrics and finish the process.

Work permits are typically issued for two years and can be renewed. To renew, apply at least three months before your permit expires. If your employment ends before the permit expires, you'll need to surrender the work permit and leave the country, unless you line up a new permit first.

Your employer usually handles the work permit application and covers the costs. If you're setting up your own business, be ready to show that it's financially viable and will benefit the local economy.

Whatever the sector, employers must show that a role can't be filled locally before they hire a foreign worker. Some industries are now covered by local-content rules with hiring targets for Kenyan workers. In oil and gas, for instance, companies must justify each foreign hire and get a recommendation from the relevant authority before they apply for the permit.

The application can take anywhere from a few weeks to three months, so it's worth starting early. That also leaves you time to arrange accommodation and sort out other logistics before your move.

Once your permit is approved, you'll need to register as a foreign national and apply for an Alien Card (also called a Foreign Nationals Certificate), which every foreign resident must hold. You'll then use it to register with the Kenya Revenue Authority (KRA) for a tax number, the KRA PIN.

Useful links

• Directorate of Immigration Services: eFNS portal
• eCitizen: account and payments
• Kenya Revenue Authority: KRA PIN registration

Accommodation in Kenya
Banking, Money, and Taxes in Kenya

Residence permits for Kenya

Residence permits for Kenya are for foreign nationals who want to settle in the country for the long term, and some types can lead to permanent residence. Work permit holders can apply for permanent residence in time, as can financially independent 'ordinary residents' and the spouses of Kenyan citizens.

Permanent residence for work permit holders

Once you've held work permits for at least seven years and lived in Kenya continuously for the three years before you apply, you can apply for permanent residence. This route is known as Category B, and it means you can live and work in the country without a work permit. You'll need to show good conduct and a clean criminal record, prove you can support yourself without public funds, show you're up to date with your Kenyan taxes, and satisfy immigration that you contribute to Kenya's development. You'll also attend an interview in person as part of the process.

Permanent residence in Kenya has several benefits:

• You can live and work in Kenya without a work permit.
• You can use many of the same public services as Kenyan citizens.
• Your status is secure, and unlike a temporary permit, you never have to renew it.
• You can apply for Kenyan citizenship once you meet the residency requirements.

Permanent residence for spouses of Kenyan citizens

Spouses of Kenyan citizens who have been married for at least three years can apply for permanent residence (Category D). You'll need to prove the marriage is genuine with documents such as a certified copy of your marriage certificate, evidence that you live together (joint bank accounts, utility bills, a lease, or shared insurance), copies of both spouses' passports, and the Kenyan spouse's national ID or passport. The Kenyan spouse also writes a letter in support of the application.

Spouses who hold permanent residence get some extra benefits:

• You can work in Kenya without a separate work permit.
• You can apply for Kenyan citizenship once you meet the requirements.
• Family reunification is more straightforward, so your children and dependants can join you in Kenya.

Class K: Ordinary resident permit

Class K, the ordinary resident permit, is for financially independent applicants aged 35 or over, and it's popular with retirees. To qualify, you'll need an assured annual income that is:

• At least USD 24,000 a year.
• From sources outside Kenya, or from a pension or annuity.

Under a Class K permit, you can't work or run a business in Kenya, paid or unpaid, and holders sign an undertaking to that effect. If you later want to take a job, invest, start a business, or practise a profession, you'll need to apply for the right permit first, such as Class D or Class G. For charitable or voluntary work with an approved organisation, you'll need a separate route, Class I.

Work permit rules can change at short notice, so check the latest details with the Directorate of Immigration Services or the nearest Kenyan embassy or high commission before you apply.

Expat arrivals may be pleasantly surprised by the range and quality of accommodation in Kenya. Those coming from Europe in particular can look forward to far more spacious homes than they'd find back home.

Types of accommodation in Kenya

Renters in Kenya can pick from all sorts of homes to suit different budgets and lifestyles. Out beyond the city centres, you'll find standalone houses on generous plots, garden cottages, maisonettes, and villas. In town, apartment blocks and townhouse complexes are the popular choice, above all in Nairobi.

Expat families often go for freestanding houses. They usually have big gardens and space to entertain, although you'll pay for the privilege. Expect anything from a simple bungalow to a sprawling multi-storey home.

Kenya's cities have plenty of apartments, from high-rise towers to smaller secure flats and townhouses. These tend to suit younger, single expats after a short-term let. The building manager usually handles the upkeep too, so there's one less thing to worry about.

Gated complexes and estates are among the most common expat homes in Kenya. These walled-in communities have houses and flats with shared amenities like swimming pools.

Furnished vs unfurnished

How much furniture comes with a place depends on what you're renting. Apartments often come fully furnished, which is convenient, although it costs more. Most houses come semi-furnished or bare.

Shipping furniture to Kenya is slow and expensive, so buying once you arrive is usually the simpler route. Locally made pieces are cheaper than imports, although the quality is a bit hit-and-miss.

Shipping and Removals in Kenya

Short-term lets

Short-term lets in Kenya have become hugely popular, especially in Nairobi and on the coast around Mombasa. You'll find everything from a compact flat in central Nairobi to a beachfront place near Mombasa. The sector is better regulated now. The Tourism Regulatory Authority registers short-stay operators for safety, so book somewhere properly listed.

Useful links

• Airbnb
• Booking.com

Finding accommodation in Kenya

Finding accommodation in Kenya usually starts online. Property portals such as Property24, BuyRentKenya, and PigiaMe have thousands of listings and let you compare areas and suburbs before you've even left home, so you can plan your budget in advance.

Social media is another good place to look. There are rental listings on Facebook groups, WhatsApp, Instagram, and TikTok, where you can message owners and agents directly and sometimes turn up places that never reach the big portals. Do your due diligence, since these listings aren't vetted.

A good agent can save you a lot of legwork. Agents know the local market, can get you into places that never appear online, will negotiate on your behalf, and will sort out the paperwork. In Kenya, the tenant usually pays the agent's fee, often around a month's rent, so factor that into your moving costs.

If you have a relocation company on your side, so much the better; they'll shortlist properties and line up viewings for you.

Areas and Suburbs in Kenya

Useful links

• BuyRentKenya
• Property24 Kenya
• PigiaMe

Renting accommodation in Kenya

Renting accommodation in Kenya is pricey, and you may have to fund it yourself, since not every employer chips in. If you're working in Kenya, try to negotiate a housing allowance into your contract, as many employers here offer one.

Leases

Before you sign a lease in Kenya, do your homework. Read the contract closely and, if anything's unclear, get an agent or a property lawyer to look it over. Most residential leases are a year long, although terms from a few months up to two years are common. You can usually negotiate a renewal if you want to stay on.

Landlords tend to have the upper hand in Kenyan leases, although there are limits on how often the rent goes up. As a rule, a landlord can raise residential rent only once in any 12-month period, and must give you written notice well in advance, usually around 90 days. You can object within 30 days of getting that notice. During a fixed-term lease, the rent is fixed unless the contract has an escalation clause built in.

Deposits and fees

The rental deposit in Kenya is usually one or two months' rent, occasionally up to three, and you'll normally have to pay your first month upfront. The deposit is there to cover any damage you cause, although the landlord still pays for general repairs and normal wear and tear. You should get the deposit back when you move out, minus any fair deductions, so photograph the place on the way in and out and hold on to the inventory.

Home safety and security costs

Home security is something most tenants in Kenya take seriously, and the country's wide gap between rich and poor is the main reason. Expat homes usually have security measures already fitted, and anything missing is easy to add. A typical setup includes a day or night guard, motion-sensor outdoor lighting, burglar bars on the windows, panic buttons, and an alarm. It can feel like a lot at first, but it soon becomes second nature, and most tenants sleep soundly once it's sorted.

In a gated community or estate, guards control who comes and goes at the boom gate, and the security bill is usually folded into your rent or service charge. If you rent a standalone house on its own plot, you'll often shoulder those costs yourself, unless your employer picks up the tab.

Terminating the lease

Ending a lease early in Kenya is mostly about giving the right notice. For most agreements, either side must give one to two months' written notice, so check your contract and make sure to submit your notice in writing. If you leave without giving proper notice, you risk losing part of your deposit or having to wait until the original end date to get it back.

Working in Kenya
Safety in Kenya

Useful links

• Kenya Law: Rent Restriction Act
• Kenya Law: Kenyan statutes and case law

Utilities in Kenya

Utilities in Kenya are almost always not included in your rent. Budget separately for electricity, water, cooking gas, and internet.

Electricity

Electricity in Kenya is supplied by Kenya Power, the national utility. Most rentals have a prepaid meter. You buy tokens through M-Pesa or a banking app and key in the code to top up whenever you're running low. Homes on older postpaid meters are billed monthly instead.

Gas

Most households in Kenya cook on bottled gas (LPG). Cylinders are sold in several sizes, and an average household gets a month or more out of a 29-pound (13kg) bottle. Refills are easy to come by. Petrol stations and neighbourhood shops both swap and refill cylinders, and some will deliver to your door.

Water

Water in Kenya is billed by the county water company, so who you pay depends on where you live; in Nairobi, that's the Nairobi City Water and Sewerage Company. The water supply is unreliable in some parts of the country, so most households keep a storage tank, and some have to fall back on a borehole or water deliveries.

Bins and recycling

Rubbish collection in Kenya is handled by county services, although there are also some private firms that do waste collection. In many urban areas, the county sends a lorry round, but the service is hit-and-miss, so a lot of households pay a private collector for a reliable weekly pickup.

Recycling is still in its early days, although some private companies and community groups will take sorted plastics, paper, metal, and glass. Plastic carrier bags are banned across Kenya, so keep a reusable tote handy.

Useful links

• Kenya Power

Ancient history

• 2.6 million years ago: Prehistoric evidence suggests that the region now known as Kenya has been inhabited by humans for millions of years. The Oldowan industry in Koobi Fora, dating back to 2.6 million years ago, is among the earliest evidence of hominin tool use. By 1.2 million years ago, the Acheulean handaxe culture had developed in Olorgesailie.
• Around 40,000 years ago: Advanced Stone Age technology and long-distance trade were established, as evidenced by findings in Olorgesailie, Southern Kenya.
• 3300 BCE: The Savanna Pastoral Neolithic culture, characterised by pastoralism and stone cairns, spread across East Africa.
• Around 1000 BCE: Bantu-speaking communities began migrating to Kenya from West Africa, bringing agriculture and ironworking skills.

Arab and Portuguese influence

• 1st century CE: Arab traders established trade routes along the East African coast, encouraging the growth of prosperous coastal city-states like Mombasa and Pate. The blending of Arab and African cultures led to the development of Swahili culture, language, architecture, and social structures.
• Arab traders engaged in the capture, transport, and sale of enslaved Africans, driven by demand for labour and concubines in Arab-dominated regions.
• 1498: The arrival of Portuguese explorer Vasco da Gama marked the beginning of European contact with Kenya. Portuguese influence in the coastal region increased, leading to the establishment of Fort Jesus in Mombasa in 1593.
• 17th century: The Omani Arabs overthrew the Portuguese and gained control over the coastal trade routes, establishing the Sultanate of Oman in Zanzibar. They continued to influence the region, engaging in trade and expanding their influence inland.
• 19th century: The growth of clove plantations in Zanzibar under Sultan Seyyid Said drove demand for enslaved people from the mainland.

British colonisation

• Late 19th century: European explorers, primarily from Britain, started venturing into the interior of Kenya, motivated by the desire to find the source of the Nile and to exploit the region's resources. The British established a presence on the Kenyan coast by signing treaties with coastal leaders that gave them control over trade and administration.
• 1888: The British East Africa Company was formed to oversee British interests in the region. In 1889, it acquired a royal charter, leading to the establishment of the East Africa Protectorate.
• 1890–1905: The Nandi resistance, led by Koitalel Arap Samoei, fiercely opposed the construction of the Uganda Railway and British land encroachments. Koitalel's assassination in 1905 marked a turning point in the suppression of Nandi resistance.
• 1895: The protectorate was renamed the British East Africa Protectorate and came under direct British administration. The capital was established in Nairobi in 1899.
  • British colonisation brought significant changes to Kenya. The British implemented policies that significantly disrupted local economies.
  • They introduced cash crops like coffee and tea, displacing indigenous communities from fertile lands to create large-scale settler farms. This shift from subsistence farming to cash crop production altered traditional land use and labour practices.
  • Forced labour and heavy taxation imposed by the colonial administration further strained local economies and social structures.
• 1903: The completion of the Ugandan Railway was pivotal in the colonisation of Kenya.
• 1909: The East African slave trade declined significantly due to multiple factors. British naval patrols in the Indian Ocean intercepted slave ships, while treaties with local leaders sought to curtail the trade. Slavery was officially abolished in East Africa.
• 1912–1915: Many indigenous communities resisted British rule, leading to sporadic conflicts and uprisings. A notable example is the Giriama rebellion led by Mekatilili Wa Menza.
• 1914–1918: During World War I, Kenyan soldiers, known as the Carrier Corps, fought alongside the British forces in East Africa against German colonial forces. Approximately 45,000 Kenyan Africans perished in the campaign.
• 1920: The British East Africa Protectorate was transformed into the Kenya Colony, administered directly by the British government. Sir Edward Northey became the first governor.
  • The colonial period was marked by racial segregation and discrimination, with the white settlers enjoying privileged status and access to land, while the African majority faced various forms of oppression. The Young Kikuyu Association, started by Harry Thuku in 1920, was among the early nationalist movements.
• 1940s–1950s: The nationalist movement gained momentum, led by figures like Jomo Kenyatta and the Mau Mau rebellion against British colonial rule. The Mau Mau uprising in 1952 was a violent struggle for land and freedom, resulting in significant casualties and repression.

Independence

• 1963: Kenya achieved independence on December 12, with Jomo Kenyatta becoming the country's first Prime Minister and later President.
• 1964: Kenya became a republic, and Jomo Kenyatta continued to serve as the President.
  • Upon achieving independence, the new government faced the daunting task of land redistribution to address historical injustices. The 'Million Acre Settlement Scheme' was initiated to buy back land from European settlers and redistribute it to African farmers.
  • The government embarked on nation-building efforts, focusing on unifying the diverse ethnic groups and fostering a sense of national identity. This included establishing national institutions, developing infrastructure and implementing educational reforms.
• 1970s–1980s: Kenya experienced political and economic turbulence, including widespread corruption and economic decline.
• 1978: Jomo Kenyatta passed away, and Daniel arap Moi succeeded him as the President.
  • Moi's rule was characterised by authoritarianism, repression of dissent, and political instability. The assassination of Josiah Mwangi Kariuki in 1975 and the attempted coup in 1982 were significant events during his tenure.
• 1990s: Kenya underwent a period of political liberalisation, and multi-party democracy was reintroduced. The repeal of Section 2A of the constitution in 1991 marked a pivotal moment in this transition.

21st-century developments

• 2002: Moi's 24-year rule ended when Mwai Kibaki was elected President in a peaceful transition of power. Kibaki's presidency focused on economic reforms, infrastructure development, and the fight against corruption.
• 2007: A disputed presidential election led to widespread violence and ethnic clashes, resulting in the loss of many lives and the displacement of thousands of people. Kibaki was re-elected amidst controversy, but a power-sharing agreement was later reached with the opposition leader, Raila Odinga.
• 2010: Kenya adopted a new constitution following a referendum. This was a significant step towards national reconciliation and political stability.
• 2013: Uhuru Kenyatta, the son of Jomo Kenyatta, was elected President, becoming the youngest President in Kenya's history. His presidency focused on infrastructure development, economic growth, and regional integration. Kenyatta's administration faced criticism for corruption, inequality and human rights concerns.
• Kenya has faced significant security challenges, including the Westgate Mall attack in 2013 and the Garissa University attack in 2015, both perpetrated by the extremist group Al-Shabab.
• 2017: Kenyatta was re-elected for a second term, but the opposition disputed the results, leading to political tensions and protests. The Supreme Court annulled the initial election results, and a second election was held, which Kenyatta won.
• 2018: The handshake between Kenyatta and Raila Odinga marked a significant moment of political reconciliation. This agreement aimed to address longstanding political and ethnic divisions.
• 2022: William Ruto was elected as the 5th President of Kenya, promising to address economic challenges and promote national unity.

If you want to make a success of doing business in Kenya, you'll need to bring a few things to the boardroom table. Among them patience, respect for cultural differences, a knack for building personal relationships, and a thick skin for the local bureaucracy.

Anyone who's spent time working in Kenya will know that corruption and ethnic division are stubborn drags on the economy, and there's little any one person can do to sidestep them. For those willing to work through the red tape, though, the opportunities are real. The government is pushing hard to grow the digital economy, and Kenya's fintech and tech-startup scene is among the strongest in Africa. The country is often called the 'Silicon Savannah'.

Fast facts

Business hours

8am or 9am to 5pm, Monday to Friday, although banks often close earlier.

Business language

English is the main language of business and one of Kenya's two official languages, along with Swahili. You won't need to be fluent in Swahili, but a few basic phrases help with communication and show respect for the local culture.

Greetings

Handshakes are the standard business greeting in Kenya. Start with the most senior person, and make sure you shake hands with everyone present. As a mark of respect when shaking hands with a senior colleague, support your right forearm with your left hand.

Kenyans tend to follow greetings with questions about how your family is doing and how you're getting on. It’s best not to rush through it, as you may come across as brusque. Pick up a few Swahili greetings, such as 'Habari' (how are you?), and locals will appreciate the effort.

Dress

Dress neatly. Dark, formal suits are the standard for men, even in warm weather. Women dress professionally in a smart dress, a skirt, or trousers with a blouse.

Gifts

Gift-giving is common in business, but keep presents small and tasteful; branded stationery works well. Gifts aren't really expected, although a gift basket at Christmas is a nice touch. Steer clear of anything extravagant or too personal. Offer and receive gifts with both hands, or at least your right hand. Go easy on alcohol as a gift unless you know the person drinks, as some Kenyans are Muslim or otherwise teetotal.

Gender equality

Kenyan culture is still fairly patriarchal, and the corporate world can reflect that. The picture is changing, though.

Under the constitution's two-thirds gender rule, no more than two-thirds of the members of any elected or appointed body may be of one gender, and the National Gender and Equality Commission works to hold employers and the state to account. Enforcement has been patchy, but more women have moved into senior roles and started their own businesses over the past decade.

Banking, Money and Taxes in Kenya

Business culture in Kenya

The guiding idea in business culture in Kenya is harambee, a Swahili word that loosely means 'everyone pulls together'. In practice, colleagues help one another out, and community counts for a lot. This group-first outlook is quite different from the individualism many Westerners are used to. Respect for elders and family matters a great deal, at work and at home.

Management style

Kenyan business is quite hierarchical. It's expected to be deferential to senior staff, who seldom consult those below them. Social standing counts for a lot here, so make sure to use professional or academic titles when you introduce or address someone. Multinational companies are often flatter and more open than the local firms.

Communication style

Kenyans tend to avoid making blunt statements. It's also rare to outright refuse something, so someone's real position can be hard to read if you come from a culture that uses more direct, lower-context communication. It's best to take evasive or vague answers as a sign of polite hesitation or disagreement. 

Time

Meetings in Kenya will usually start on time, but they rarely wrap up exactly when scheduled. Small talk is an essential part of the meeting, and you'll leave a poor impression if you try to rush it. In social settings, 'Kenyan time' prevails, and punctuality is not always adhered to so strictly.

Business meetings

Kenyan businesspeople don't rush into decisions. They tend to be very cautious about risk and commit only after they're comfortable they've weighed all the information. Meetings are fairly consultative; everyone invited to one expects a chance to speak and their views to be taken seriously. Hold off on proposing a solution unless you're asked for one.

Networking

In Kenya, business and personal relationships are closely tied, so it pays to spend time getting to know potential partners before you get down to business. Say yes to invitations to lunch or social events, since much of the trust is built outside the boardroom.

For more formal networking, go to industry conferences, trade fairs, business expos, and chamber of commerce events. Business associations, such as the Kenya Private Sector Alliance, and chambers, such as AmCham Kenya, hold regular gatherings. LinkedIn is widely used for professional networking here.

Local Culture in Kenya
Work Culture in Kenya

Dos and don'ts of business in Kenya

• Do take the time to greet business associates properly, and ask after their family
• Don't bring up ethnic politics or divisive election topics
• Do offer and accept business cards and gifts with both hands, or at least your right hand
• Don't lose your temper or get visibly emotional over a business setback
• Do keep a warm, friendly tone in meetings
• Do be patient and don't rush decisions; strong relationships come first in Kenya

The thought of moving to Kenya may conjure images of magical landscapes and rare wildlife, but it's also a place of cosmopolitan cities that are drawing more and more expats.

Living in Kenya as an expat

Kenya may not be considered a popular expat destination, but this is slowly changing as the country is starting to be viewed as a viable destination for working expats looking to raise a family in an interesting and culturally diverse environment.

Nairobi is widely considered a hub for business and development in eastern Africa and offers an exciting lifestyle. Many expats working in Kenya find themselves employed as well-paid managers in multinational companies, at embassies or as development and NGO employees and volunteers.

Kenya is generally a politically stable country with developed healthcare facilities, an improving public transport network and a strong education system that serves a diverse population.

That said, expat life can be insulated from Kenyan society as the fear of crime, particularly in large cities, sometimes cloisters foreigners behind the gates of housing compounds. Those who emerge from behind this curtain of fear can really enjoy the different cultures of Kenya, all of which are famously welcoming and cheerful.

Cost of living in Kenya

Kenya has a fairly gentle cost of living, but new arrivals need to remember that amenities such as private healthcare, international schools and comfortable homes can inflate the cost of living in Kenya tremendously. Nairobi is more affordable than other African cities like Maputo, Mozambique, while its living costs are comparable to Kigali, Rwanda.

You will also likely incur additional living expenses you wouldn’t back home, such as the cost of clean drinking water and a security guard or driver. Fortunately, many expats find that their employment contracts cover some of the heftiest expenses.

Expat families and children

You may find yourself longing for everyday conveniences and the familiar efficiency of home. But you may also find that the luxuries Kenya has to offer, such as large houses and high expat salaries, make for a higher quality of life. Add to that Kenya's fantastic natural landscapes with its savannah grasslands, lakelands and mountains, as well as its wealth of national parks and sanctuaries, and it's no wonder you may fall in love with the country. You don't need to venture out far to experience this, as the capital city of Nairobi is home to the popular Nairobi National Park, while Mombasa affords refreshing coastal views.

As a parent relocating to Kenya, you can rest assured that your children will have an excellent selection of schools to choose from. While there are some good government schools in Kenya, especially in major cities, you may rather opt to enrol your children in private or international schools as these generally have higher standards and students can continue in their home curriculum.

Climate in Kenya

Kenya's heat may take some getting used to, especially if you are from a colder climate. The coast hosts a humid, tropical climate, while the inland areas are more temperate. The north and northeast parts of the country are hot with dry conditions and little rain.

Overall, whether your life in Kenya turns out to be an unwelcome posting or a grand opportunity, you will certainly have a truly unique and memorable experience.

Fast facts

Official name: Republic of Kenya

Population: 58 million

Capital city: Nairobi

Neighbouring countries: Kenya is bordered by Somalia to the northeast, Ethiopia to the north, South Sudan to the northwest, Uganda to the west and Tanzania to the south and southwest.

Geography: Situated on the east coast of Central Africa, Kenya has a varied geography. This ranges from low-lying plains in the east of the country to the fertile highlands of central Kenya, home to Africa's second-highest peak, Mount Kenya.

Political system: Unitary presidential constitutional republic

Major religions: Christianity and Islam

Main languages: English and Swahili

Money: The Kenyan Shilling (KES), divided into 100 cents. Expats can open a bank account in Kenya, but many prefer to continue using their overseas accounts, especially if they're only in the country for a short period. ATMs are widely available in major cities.

Tipping: Tips are common for most small services, in addition to the standard 10 percent expected in restaurants.

Time: GMT+3

Electricity: 240V 50Hz. UK-style plugs with three flat blades are used.

Internet domain: .ke

International dialling code: +254

Emergency contacts: 999

Transport and driving: While public transport is available in all of Kenya's big cities, it's not always efficient or safe. The best option is for expats to use a private vehicle and hire a driver who is familiar with the local driving conditions. Driving is on the left-hand side.

With so much to plan and consider, if you are moving to Kenya, you are sure to have a few queries and concerns about your destination. Below we try to answer some of the most frequently asked questions about Kenya.

Do I need a car in Kenya?

Yes. You will need a car to get around as public transport in Kenya is limited and sometimes unsafe. It's advisable to invest in a reliable vehicle, as breaking down can present its own safety problems. An alternative is to hire a vehicle from a rental agency.

That said, there are several ways of getting around in Kenya. The fairly new Standard Gauge Railway (SGR) now connects Nairobi to several major cities and towns, making trips between these destinations much easier.

Additionally, the introduction of electric buses in Nairobi's bus rapid transit (BRT) system has improved public transport significantly.

Are there reliable internet service providers in Kenya?

Yes, Kenya has reliable internet. The telecommunications market is competitive, with a number of new providers entering the market in the past two years, enhancing service quality.

Internet speeds and reliability have generally improved, with more widespread adoption of high-speed fibre optic and 4G/5G networks. Some providers have introduced new technologies and services, such as improved home Wi-Fi solutions and mobile data plans tailored for expats.

Is my house going to be safe?

In terms of accommodation in Kenya, many people live in gated communities and compounds. These are usually safe and often have dedicated security guards. If you live in a freestanding home, you will largely be responsible for your own security arrangements and should make sure your budget can accommodate the cost of this.

While security systems and guards may be an element of culture shock, they can make both locals and new arrivals feel more secure in their homes.

The overall security situation in Kenya remains stable, with no major changes in the past two years. Many households and communities have adopted new security technologies, such as smart home systems and neighbourhood watch apps, to enhance safety.

We recommend you familiarise yourself with the main safety concerns in Kenya.

What is the healthcare like in Kenya?

The standard of healthcare in Kenya varies. You may generally opt for private hospitals as these generally offer a much higher standard of care than public facilities. We recommend you invest in health insurance that includes cover for potential repatriation for more complicated medical procedures.

Kenya's healthcare system has undergone significant reforms in recent years, with the government working towards achieving universal health coverage (UHC). New healthcare laws enacted in November 2023 aim to broaden the scope of public healthcare and provide financial protection to all citizens and long-term residents.

The COVID-19 pandemic has highlighted the need for improvements in the healthcare system, and the government has taken steps to enhance preparedness and response capabilities. Private healthcare facilities continue to provide high-quality services, and many expats choose to use these facilities or obtain international health insurance plans.

What are schools like in Kenya?

Schools in Kenya deliver a high standard of education, and if you can afford it, you may generally opt for private and international schools that follow an international curriculum.

It's important to research these schools in advance and make budget allowances for related school fees. Several new international and private schools have opened in recent years, offering a wide range of curricula and teaching methods. The government has also made efforts to improve the quality of public education, with a focus on STEM subjects and digital literacy.

Is it expensive to live in Kenya?

Your expenses really depend on where you settle in Kenya and your lifestyle preferences. Most expats move to Nairobi, the capital city, where the cost of living is higher than elsewhere in the country, with particularly high accommodation costs.

While it's not as expensive as many European destinations, don't be fooled into thinking everything is cheap. Lucrative employment packages generally make up for high costs, though, and it's easy to find discounts to save money.

The cost of living in Kenya has remained relatively stable in recent years, with some fluctuations in housing costs, particularly in major cities like Nairobi. Housing prices have seen a slight increase, but there is still a good supply of affordable options for expats.

The availability and pricing of essential goods and services have not changed significantly, and you can find a wide range of products and services to meet your needs. We recommend budgeting and negotiating with employers for particular benefits.

Opening a bank account will likely be a priority for you when relocating to Kenya. Fortunately, banking in Kenya is easy and efficient, and banks can be found in most major towns and cities.

Although the process is straightforward, you will need to follow specific steps and provide certain documents to open a bank account, such as presenting a copy of your employment contract and proof of a local address.

Money in Kenya

The official currency in Kenya is the Kenyan Shilling (KES), subdivided into 100 cents.

• Notes: KES 5, 10, 20, 50, 100, 200, 500 and 1,000
• Coins: 50 cents (rarely used), KES 1, 5, 10 and 20

When moving to Kenya, you will need to exchange currency for the local shillings. You can exchange money at international airports, in bureaux de change, and certain banks in major cities. Some hotels may offer local currency, but the rate might not be so favourable.

Banking in Kenya

Many large international banks have branches in Nairobi or partnerships with local banks. This can make transferring money between your home country and Kenya easier. Inform your home bank about your relocation to ensure a smooth process.

The largest banks are Absa Bank Kenya and Standard Chartered Kenya, which are international, and KCB Bank Kenya, Co-operative Bank of Kenya, and Equity Bank Kenya, which are local. All banks follow the guidelines and management issued by the Central Bank of Kenya (CBK).

It's useful to have cash on hand in Kenya. Bank card payments are common, especially with Visa and Mastercard, although some areas, markets, and shops only accept cash payments.

Banking hours in Kenya are mainly from 9am to 3pm, Monday to Friday. Some banks may open earlier and close later. Banks often close around midday on Saturdays and remain closed on Sundays.

Opening a bank account

When opening a bank account in Kenya, watch out for account fees. Visit different banking websites and research their services and account types. Check if a fixed monthly fee or an individual fee per transaction is charged.

After finding a suitable bank, visit the nearest branch in person. They will assist with setting up your account. Processing the necessary documents shouldn't take long, and your account should be activated within a day or so.

Opening an account at any of Kenya's banks is straightforward, though required documents vary. Check if a Kenya Revenue Authority (KRA) PIN or tax number is needed or if a local phone number is enough.

You will generally need to present identification, such as your passport, along with proof of your Kenyan address. This can be a utility bill or a similar statement that shows your name and address.

Credit cards and ATMs

ATMs are easily found in Kenya's big cities, and several banks have effective online banking services. Restaurants and shopping malls in major cities have credit card facilities, but charges can be high. It's often better to pay with a local debit card or cash.

Taxes in Kenya

You should be aware of the tax implications when working in Kenya. The Kenya Revenue Authority (KRA) manages all tax-related matters in the country. Their website is comprehensive, offering various online services and tax guides. If you are not clued up on accounting and tax processes, it’s best to enlist the services of tax specialists. They will be familiar with the latest guidelines.

Income tax in Kenya is on a graduated scale based on your earnings. Rates range from 10 to 35 percent. Non-cash benefits, such as housing, utilities, and company cars, are also taxed. Expat employees frequently receive generous employment packages, including benefits like housing, utilities, furniture, a company car, and school fees for dependants.

You may wonder what it means to be considered a resident for tax purposes. In Kenya, this includes anyone with a permanent home in the country or those present for at least 183 days in one tax year. It also includes those without a permanent home but who have resided in Kenya during the tax year and the previous two years for at least 122 days a year.

If you are considered a resident for tax purposes, you are liable for tax on income generated both in Kenya and abroad. Non-residents are only taxed on income earned in and derived from Kenya.

Kenya has double-taxation treaties with several countries, including Canada, the United Kingdom, South Africa, Germany and the United Arab Emirates. You should find out if your home country is part of a double-taxation agreement, which exempts you from certain taxes abroad.

Getting a tax number

If you are working in Kenya and considered a resident for tax purposes, you should obtain a tax number or KRA PIN.

Once your work permit has been processed, you will receive an Alien Card. This allows you to register with the KRA and obtain a KRA PIN. Visiting the KRA website, you will find instructions and an online form. You will need to provide your Alien ID card, basic information, and company details. After processing, you will get your tax number.

This number is used for filing self-assessment tax returns, due at the end of June each year. While employers deduct tax from their employees' incomes, you must submit these tax returns. We recommend seeking support from a tax advisor.

Professionals are drawn to working in Kenya by a young, skilled workforce, a fast-growing technology sector, improving infrastructure, and the country's standing as an economic hub in East Africa. Although some expat positions are well paid, it can be difficult to secure a job if you haven’t arrived with one.

Unemployment is high, particularly among young people, and poverty is a major challenge to the country’s development. Working in Kenya and earning a salary that covers the cost of living can prove difficult if you don't line up a job before you arrive. Kenya still has one of the largest economies in sub-Saharan Africa, so with proper research into the job market, you should be able to find work.

Job market in Kenya

The job market in Kenya is centred on Nairobi, the country's business capital and one of Africa's leading commercial hubs. Several multinational companies operate their African headquarters or regional offices there, including Google, Microsoft, Visa, and Coca-Cola. Most expats who work for these corporations move to Kenya on an intra-company transfer.

Foreign professionals are most often hired in technology and ICT, financial services, telecommunications, and energy, where renewables are a growing area. Demand for digital skills is especially strong, and there are openings in finance, business management, engineering, and logistics.

Many expats work for foreign embassies and consulates. The country's international schools also employ foreign teachers, many of whom come for a few years to travel and experience life in Kenya.

There are also volunteer and paid roles with government bodies and non-governmental organisations. Kenya is a regional hub for non-profit and aid work, and Nairobi is home to the United Nations Office at Nairobi and the global headquarters of UN Environment and UN-Habitat. Many development and humanitarian professionals are based in the city as a result.

If you are entrepreneurial, you might consider starting your own company. Nairobi's tech scene, often called the Silicon Savannah, has produced a wave of successful start-ups, and founders from abroad continue to set up there. Before you commit, get professional guidance on which sectors are open to foreign investment, the minimum start-up capital involved, the local-to-foreign shareholding rules that apply in some sectors, and the licences and permits you'll need.

Working in Nairobi
International Schools in Kenya

Finding a job in Kenya

Most expats secure a role before they move rather than arriving to look for one, so a lot of the groundwork for finding a job in Kenya happens overseas. They are often relocated by their employer or hired from abroad by a company that understands the immigration and work permit process. These employers usually handle relocation and help with work permit applications.

It helps to understand the work permit and visa rules before you apply. Employers often favour candidates who already hold, or clearly qualify for, the right permit.

Online job platforms are among the best places to find openings and send applications. The most widely used in Kenya include BrighterMonday, Fuzu, MyJobMag, and LinkedIn, and you can search them from abroad or once you are in the country. If you have a particular organisation in mind, go straight to its own careers page.

Work Permits for Kenya
Visas for Kenya

Useful links

• BrighterMonday
• Fuzu
• MyJobMag
• LinkedIn

Work culture in Kenya

English-speaking expats settle into work culture in Kenya without much trouble, since English is the main language of business alongside Swahili. Office hours are typically 8am or 9am to 5pm, Monday to Friday, although banks often close earlier.

Kenyans place real weight on relationships, both personal and professional. Take your time in meetings and get to know your colleagues and business partners rather than rushing to the matter at hand. Small talk matters, and it is normal to ask about family or local events before turning to business. Sharing a meal or going to a social event goes a long way towards building trust.

Hierarchy and titles are a big deal in Kenyan workplaces. Staff are usually addressed by their professional or academic title, and junior workers are expected to show respect to their seniors. Kenyans often communicate indirectly and tend to avoid open confrontation or criticism, so it helps to be mindful, read between the lines, and pay attention to what is left unsaid.

Nairobi is faster paced than the coast, where cities like Mombasa are known for a more relaxed working day.

Punctuality is valued, but you'll also hear about 'Kenyan time', a looser attitude to the clock. Meetings sometimes start late, and turning up a little behind schedule is usually fine if you let people know.

A few words of Swahili go a long way. Greet colleagues with Habari? (How are you?) to show that you've made an effort and to build rapport more easily.

Business Culture in Kenya

The quality of healthcare in Kenya is a question of whether you're using its public or private hospitals. Public facilities are stretched and generally fall short of Western standards, so most expats turn to the private sector, where hospitals and clinics are better equipped and far less crowded than their public counterparts. Quality is not guaranteed even within the private sector, so it's worth checking a hospital's specialities before you need them.

Private care costs a good deal more than the public system, but the gap in quality and waiting times is wide enough to justify the expense for most newcomers.

Public healthcare in Kenya

Public healthcare in Kenya is organised in tiers; a case moves up the chain of referrals as it grows more complex. For anyone not on private cover, a government-run dispensary is the first port of call. Dispensaries are staffed by nurses and deal with everyday outpatient complaints such as colds, flu, minor skin conditions, and the initial treatment of malaria. Most of their medicines and equipment come from the state-run Kenya Medical Supplies Authority (KEMSA).

When a dispensary can't handle a case, it refers the patient to a health centre, which a clinical officer manages. Health centres concentrate on primary and preventive care, such as vaccinations and maternal services, and they tend to be weaker on complex curative treatment. More complicated cases move up again to a county or national referral hospital.

Private healthcare in Kenya

Most expats rely on private healthcare in Kenya, as it’s a clear step up from the public system. Doctors in the private sector tend to be more experienced, and hygiene and equipment have improved significantly in recent years. Private facilities range from small neighbourhood clinics to large, well-equipped hospitals, and the biggest concentration is in Nairobi and Mombasa.

Routine treatments at Kenya’s private healthcare facilities can be surprisingly affordable, but private hospitals usually require an upfront deposit from uninsured patients before admitting them. This is where it becomes so important to have solid medical insurance, particularly for major procedures and evacuations.

For the most serious operations, some patients look abroad. South Africa has the best-regarded medical facilities on the continent and is the usual destination for emergency medical evacuation, so check that any policy covers overseas evacuation and treatment.

Healthcare in Nairobi
Healthcare in Mombasa
Healthcare in South Africa

Health insurance in Kenya

Health insurance in Kenya was overhauled in 2024, when the government replaced the old National Hospital Insurance Fund (NHIF) with the Social Health Authority (SHA). SHA manages three funds: a Primary Healthcare Fund for basic outpatient care at public dispensaries and health centres, the Social Health Insurance Fund (SHIF) for inpatient and specialist treatment at larger hospitals, and an Emergency, Chronic and Critical Illness Fund for costly care such as dialysis, cancer treatment, intensive care, and emergency evacuation.

Registration is open to all residents, foreign nationals included, who sign up using a Foreign Resident Certificate. Employed residents contribute 2.75 percent of their gross salary, deducted at source each month. As under the old system, though, most expats treat SHA as a baseline and take out private cover on top, since the public package on its own is limited and the SHA rollout has had its teething problems.

Private health insurance isn't compulsory, but it's highly recommended. Without it, private treatments can cost as much as they would back home, and an emergency evacuation could be ruinous to pay out of pocket. Employers relocating staff to Kenya often include health cover in their package. If yours doesn't, make sure to get a private policy that covers you properly before you arrive, and read the terms closely so you know exactly what you're covered for.

Useful links

• Social Health Authority (SHA)

Pharmacies and medication in Kenya

Pharmacies in Kenya are widely known as chemists, and you'll find them in any town of reasonable size, usually marked by the familiar green cross. In Swahili, they're called duka la dawa. The best-stocked ones are often attached to hospitals, and Goodlife Pharmacy, the largest chain in East Africa, has branches in shopping centres across the country; Haltons and Pharmaplus are two other names worth knowing. Some city-centre chemists stay open around the clock, although it pays to check hours before a late trip.

Most generic medicines are easy to come by, and although a lot of stock is imported, prices are generally lower than in many other expat destinations. There's a quirk worth knowing about, too. Kenyan chemists will often sell over the counter what you'd need a prescription for back home, antibiotics included, even though the law technically requires one. If you take medication for a chronic condition, bring enough to tide you over, along with copies of your prescriptions and the generic names of your drugs, as brand names change from country to country.

Outside the cities, the pharmacies are more spread out. Rural residents often have to deal with stock shortages and long journeys to reach one, and essential medicines can be harder to come by.

Health hazards in Kenya

Malaria is the health hazard in Kenya you'll most likely have to contend with. The risk is highest in the hot, low-lying areas, especially the coast around Mombasa and the Lake Victoria basin. There's less risk in Nairobi and the cooler central highlands. The best defence is to avoid getting bitten in the first place. Sleep under a mosquito net, use insect repellent, wear long sleeves after dark, and make sure your window screens are in good repair. Many expats also take a course of antimalarial tablets, so ask a doctor what suits your itinerary. There is also a risk of dengue fever, another mosquito-borne illness, mainly along the coast.

Waterborne illness is the other thing to watch out for. Kenya has cases of both cholera and typhoid, and the tap water isn't considered safe to drink. Stick to bottled or properly filtered water, and be wary of food from roadside stalls, where hygiene is harder to account for. Rabies is a risk too, so give stray dogs and monkeys a wide berth and seek treatment at once after any bite or scratch.

Safety in Kenya

Vaccinations in Kenya

Vaccinations in Kenya come with one border rule worth knowing. If you're arriving from a country where yellow fever is present, you'll need to show a valid yellow fever certificate to enter. Travellers coming straight from the UK, the USA, or most of Europe don't legally need one, but health authorities still recommend the jab, since much of Kenya is inside the yellow fever zone.

Beyond that, doctors commonly suggest hepatitis A, typhoid, hepatitis B, and rabies. Keep your routine vaccinations current as well, including measles, mumps, and rubella (MMR), polio, tetanus, and diphtheria. Book a travel-health appointment four to six weeks before you fly, which leaves time for any course of jabs to take effect.

Useful links

• CDC Travelers' Health: Kenya
• Kenya Ministry of Health: Incoming Travellers

Emergency medical services in Kenya

In a medical emergency in Kenya, dial 999, 112, or 911. All three reach the police, fire, and ambulance services. In practice, a private car or taxi may be the quickest way to reach the hospital, as ambulances can be slow to arrive.

In Nairobi and Mombasa, ambulance response times are passable, and the Kenya Red Cross and St John Ambulance are among the main providers. In rural areas, cover is patchy at best. For air evacuation from remote areas, AMREF Flying Doctors is the long-established option, and it's worth confirming that your insurer covers this.

Private hospitals in the cities usually run a small fleet of their own ambulances. The Kenya Red Cross operates a nationwide ambulance line on 1199 and also runs the E-Plus service in the main towns. In Nairobi, the largest accident and emergency departments are at Nairobi Hospital and Aga Khan University Hospital.

Shipping and removals in Kenya can be slow and expensive, so it pays to plan carefully what you bring and what you buy once you arrive. Since the customs rules are strict, many expats will contract a professional moving or relocation company to handle the procedure for them.

You can skip shipping and removals altogether by renting a furnished place, and it’s truly the best option for short-termers. If you’re moving to Kenya for a longer term, an unfurnished place is cheaper and can be set up however you like, but there’s a higher upfront cost of furniture and a heavier move.

Shipping household goods to Kenya

When shipping household goods to Kenya, it is often possible to bring a small number of things at a lower cost by paying for them as excess luggage, and several airlines offer special rates for passengers moving house. That said, the excess baggage charges are still quite high, which is why it is generally advisable to use a specialised shipping service when moving your entire household.

Sea freight is less expensive than air freight, but it is also a lot slower. Regardless of the route you choose, you should plan for customs duties, insurance, clearing agent fees, and local delivery in addition to the freight charge.

When you factor in shipping and duties, it may end up being cheaper to buy new things in Kenya than to take everything with you. Furniture, appliances, kitchen equipment, and ordinary electronics are all widely available and fairly priced.

Accommodation in Kenya
Relocation Companies in Kenya

Customs and import duties in Kenya

The Kenya Revenue Authority (KRA) is responsible for customs and import duties in Kenya. All items brought into the country, whether by air or sea, must obtain clearance upon arrival, and the applicable import taxes must be paid. The customs authorities determine the duty according to the value of the goods.

All goods are subject to duty, but the kind of concession you can claim will depend on which passenger category you belong to.

• Category A covers people who are coming to Kenya to settle, such as expats taking up jobs, diplomats, students, and Kenyans who are returning after a long period abroad. Members of this group are generally allowed to import used personal and household items, as well as one motor vehicle, either duty-free or at a reduced rate.
• Those who are tourists or short-term visitors staying for three months or less are classified in Category B.
• Category C is for returning residents and all other people who do not fall into the first two categories.

Travellers generally receive a duty-free allowance for personal and household items up to a certain value. However, this amount is subject to change from time to time, so it is necessary to confirm the current limit with the KRA prior to travelling. You are required to declare any new goods purchased abroad which exceed the concession value, as well as alcohol and tobacco that go beyond the duty-free quota, cash that is above the reporting limit, and any items that you intend to sell.

Vehicles which were first registered more than eight years earlier are not allowed, and left-hand-drive vehicles are also banned, since cars in Kenya are right-hand drive. Plastic bags are completely banned, and the authorities strictly enforce the fines for either bringing them in or using them. The complete list of goods which are restricted or prohibited is longer than the one given here and is subject to frequent changes.

Useful links

• Kenya Revenue Authority

Shipping pets to Kenya

It is necessary to make careful preparations if you want to ship your pets to Kenya. Dogs and cats do not have to go through quarantine when they arrive in Kenya as long as they have a valid import permit, up-to-date vaccinations, a microchip, and the correct health documents. Animals that fail to meet these conditions are detained at the owner's expense for a maximum of six months.

It is often a surprise to owners to find that pets travel as air cargo, listed on the manifest in the hold, not in the cabin or as checked luggage. The primary points of entry are Jomo Kenyatta International Airport in Nairobi for pets coming by air and the Port of Mombasa for those arriving by sea. You must report your pet's arrival to the nearest veterinary office within three days.

Although Kenya does not maintain a general list of banned breeds, wild-hybrid pets such as Savannah cats or wolf-dog crosses cannot be brought into the country according to the normal pet regulations.

To bring a pet into Kenya, you will need the following documents:

• The import permit, issued by Kenya's Directorate of Veterinary Services (DVS) and applied for in advance of your travel (three weeks is reasonable), valid for 90 days;
• The health certificate, signed by a qualified vet in the country of origin and dated no more than five days before departure;
• A current vaccination record that includes rabies;
• A microchip that complies with the ISO 11784/11785 standards, which should be fitted before the rabies vaccination if possible;
• A certificate from the captain stating that the animal did not leave the plane during the flight and was kept separate from the other cats and dogs.

When vaccinating against rabies, dogs and cats must have their vaccination completed at least 30 days before travelling, and the vaccine must have been given within the 12 months prior. Puppies and kittens have to be at least three months old and must have completed the 30-day waiting period after their first dose.

If the rabies vaccination was administered less than six months before arrival, a certificate from a government veterinary officer is required, certifying that no cases of rabies have occurred within a 30-mile (50km) radius of the pet's home area in the six months leading up to the arrival.

The animal must be treated by a vet for both internal and external parasites within 48 hours before the flight.

In practice, a Kenyan pet passport is just the folder that holds all of this: the import permit, the vaccination and treatment records, the health certificate, and the microchip number. Your vet can pull it together and check that all dates and signatures are in order before you fly.

Useful links

• Directorate of Veterinary Services (Ministry of Agriculture)

It is normal for newcomers to be concerned about safety in Kenya, and this concern is somewhat reasonable. Crime is a real problem, particularly in the larger cities like Nairobi and Mombasa. But foreign residents generally are able to live comfortably in these places as long as they take sensible precautions and stay alert.

For most people, the biggest risk from day to day is on the roads, since local drivers can be reckless and road accidents are common. Anyone going on a safari should take the dangers associated with wildlife into account, particularly when walking.

Crime in Kenya

Crime in Kenya is concentrated in the major cities, among them Nairobi, Mombasa, Kisumu, and Nakuru. For most residents, the everyday risk is petty theft rather than anything more serious. Pickpocketing and phone snatching are common in crowded areas and the city centre.

Serious crimes do happen, although they are uncommon. Cases of carjacking, mugging, burglary, and occasional home invasions do take place, and there are also instances of people being kidnapped for ransom, although such things rarely affect ordinary residents. This is one of the reasons so many residents live behind walls in a gated community or employ a private security guard (an askari). When out on the street, it’s best to stay alert, hide your valuables, take only the amount of cash you really need, and keep your phone in your pocket when you are in a crowd or in traffic.

Scams are common, and foreigners are considered easy targets. Some scammers pretend to be tour guides or police officers, while others start a friendly chat and then tell a heart-wrenching story about how they're a refugee or have sick relatives.

It is also important to be on the lookout for mobile money scams since nearly everybody in the area uses M-Pesa. Be careful about calls that claim to be from your mobile provider, fake payments, attempts to carry out a SIM swap, and requests to reverse money that has been 'sent by mistake'.

Useful links

• UK Government Travel Advice for Kenya
• US Government Travel Advisory for Kenya
• Australian Government Travel Advice for Kenya

Road safety in Kenya

Road safety in Kenya is a real worry, since the roads are usually in a bad state and the standard of driving is poor. Motor vehicle collisions are one of the main causes of death in the country, and it is common for expat employers to provide their employees with a company car and a local driver, which is generally the safest method of getting around.

If you drive on your own, make sure to wear your seatbelt, lock your doors and keep your windows up when you're in town, avoid driving at night, and drive defensively. On rural roads and motorways, be prepared for poor lighting, livestock straying off the road, potholes, and fast, heavily loaded lorries.

The matatus (the local shared minibuses) are cheap and can be found everywhere, but they have a bad safety record since they are notoriously poorly driven and are often not insured. Boda bodas (motorcycle taxis) are useful for beating traffic, but riders are very vulnerable in the event of an accident, so it is advisable to wear a helmet or avoid them altogether.

Transport Driving in Kenya

Useful links

• NTSA: National Transport and Safety Authority

Terrorism in Kenya

Terrorism in Kenya is genuine but mainly occurs in certain geographical areas. The greatest danger comes from Al Shabaab, a militant group based in Somalia which has on several occasions threatened Kenya over its military involvement in Somalia, where Kenyan troops continue to serve as part of the African Union force.

The attacks are frequently untargeted. They have involved hotels, shopping centres, restaurants, universities, places of worship, and government buildings. Kidnappings have also taken place, primarily in areas near the Somali border.

Piracy off the coast of Somalia is a concern for shipping throughout the wider area, although the incidents take place far out at sea and not near the beaches of Kenya. After a period of inactivity that lasted for several years, attacks of this kind are once again on the increase, so anyone who is travelling by sea or who plans to sail should look at the latest maritime security advice.

Many Western governments will recommend against travel to the areas bordering Somalia, such as Mandera, Wajir, Garissa, and the mainland part of Lamu, as well as the northern section of Tana River County. Although the coastal islands of Lamu and Manda are considered to be safer, the UK's Foreign Office still advises people to fly rather than drive to them. There is another issue of armed banditry in some of the more remote areas near the Ethiopian border, so it's best to avoid those regions.

Social and political unrest in Kenya

In recent years, social and political unrest in Kenya has been a regular occurrence. The country’s youth have gone to the streets to protest taxes, the rising cost of living, corruption, and police violence. Although these demonstrations usually begin in a peaceful manner, they can become violent, in particular when the police use tear gas or live ammunition. They generally take place in central Nairobi and other major towns.

Elections are also a major source of tension. There has been a record of violence connected with elections, and following the controversial 2007 vote, over 1,000 people were killed in ethnic and political violence.

Even though you probably won't find yourself involved in the unrest, it's advisable to avoid taking part in demonstrations and large political events since these can become violent or lead to a strong police presence. Be prepared for road closures, shops in the city centre to be closed, irregular public transport services, and occasional disruptions to the internet.

Local culture in Kenya is diverse, and the country is home to more than 40 ethnic communities.

Some new arrivals find it hard to adjust and prefer to stay within expat compounds. That can be comforting at first, but expats who never venture out see little of the country and miss the chance to get to know locals.

Others take the differences in their stride and warm to Kenyans, who tend to be friendly and welcoming towards foreigners. Expat groups in large cities such as Nairobi and Mombasa make settling in easier. These clubs put on social events, from cultural festivals and cooking classes to hikes and networking mixers. Online expat communities and city noticeboards are usually the quickest way to find them.

Adapting to local culture in Kenya takes time. Nairobi is faster-paced than Mombasa and the coast, and the smaller upcountry towns are quieter still.

Inequality in Kenya

Inequality in Kenya is one of the first things new arrivals notice, but expats are largely insulated from it. Most live comfortably, in good housing and near modern shops, and can afford a car, so day-to-day life is a world away from what the average Kenyan knows.

The gap between the rich and the poor is wide. Wealthy Kenyans drive luxury cars and own large homes. There is a middle class too, although many of its members feel squeezed by the high cost of living and rising taxes. At the other end, many Kenyans live below the poverty line, in the countryside and the cities alike, and go without essentials such as clean water, sanitation, electricity, and schools. The scale of this divide is a genuine source of culture shock for some.

Cost of living in Kenya
Accommodation in Kenya

Language barrier in Kenya

The language barrier in Kenya is low for English speakers. English is one of the country's two official languages alongside Swahili, and it's widely spoken, especially in the cities. For most Kenyans, though, the first language is one of more than 40 ethnic mother tongues. Swahili is the country's shared national language, and Kenyans generally switch to English in formal settings such as business, government, law, and higher education.

This makes settling in far smoother, whether you're getting established in business or building a social life. A little Swahili still goes a long way, though: even a few greetings are warmly received, and the more you learn, the deeper you'll get into local life. In Nairobi and the other cities, young people also speak Sheng, a fast-changing street slang rooted mainly in Swahili and English.

Doing Business in Kenya

Traffic and road conditions in Kenya

There is heavy traffic in Kenya, and you'll soon get used to sitting in it while hawkers work the gridlock and sell everything from newspapers to car accessories. Expect phone chargers, toys, bananas, sunglasses, and art on offer. The constant pressure to buy can wear thin, but you'll learn to wave the vendors on firmly and politely.

Matatus and boda bodas are a culture shock of their own. Matatus, the privately run shared minibuses, are loud and brightly painted, and they are crammed with as many passengers as will fit. Their drivers stop wherever they please and pull in and out of traffic with little warning. Boda bodas, the motorcycle taxis, are everywhere, and their riders weave through jams and mount pavements to get ahead. A passenger helmet is far from guaranteed. Both are woven into daily life and hard to avoid, but their drivers follow none of the road conventions expats might expect of buses and motorcyclists back home. Anyone used to a bit of personal space on the commute will need to adjust. Safety on either is not guaranteed, and boda bodas in particular have a grim record for road injuries.

Driving here takes some getting used to. Kenyans drive on the left, roads are often poorly maintained and badly potholed, and local drivers treat the rules of the road as loose suggestions. Speeding is common, many vehicles are in poor repair, drivers routinely jump traffic lights, and overtaking on blind corners is a real hazard. Right-of-way counts for little, so newcomers used to orderly roads back home have to drive defensively and keep a close eye on everyone around them.

Out on the open road, avoid travelling between towns after dark. Poor lighting, rougher roads at night, more drink-driving, and the threat of banditry on some routes all make it genuinely risky. During the rainy seasons, some unpaved roads become impassable even for four-wheel-drive vehicles. Plenty of expats decide the roads aren't worth the stress and hire a local driver. If you do drive yourself, wear a seatbelt, keep a safe following distance, never drink and drive, and keep your doors locked in stationary traffic.

Public Transport in Kenya
Safety in Kenya

Corruption and bureaucracy in Kenya

Corruption and bureaucracy in Kenya are realities that expats learn to work around. Mismanagement of public funds has long been a problem, and you may be asked for a bribe even in everyday dealings. A routine traffic stop is the classic example.

Sorting out visas, work permits, paperwork, and driver's licences can mean long, frustrating delays. Many expats hire a qualified agent to handle the process, and sometimes that's the only realistic way to get things done.

Visas for Kenya
Work and Residence Permits for Kenya

LGBTQ+ in Kenya

LGBTQ+ people in Kenya need to be discreet. Same-sex relationships are criminalised under the penal code, and same-sex marriage has been constitutionally banned since 2010. Public attitudes are conservative and strongly religious. Showing affection between same-sex partners in public can be dangerous, so most LGBTQ+ residents keep a low profile. Nairobi has a small, discreet scene, and local rights groups are active despite a tough climate.

Women in Kenya

Women in Kenya have strong protections on paper. Under the 2010 constitution, gender equality is guaranteed, and no more than two-thirds of any public body should be of one gender. Parliament has repeatedly failed to enact that rule, so women still hold a minority of seats and senior posts, even as more women enter politics and business each year. Gender-based violence and femicide are serious, much-protested problems, and traditional gender roles are stronger in rural areas than in the cities.

The relatively low cost of living in Kenya compared to many other destinations is one of the country’s many draws. Nairobi, the capital, is the most expensive place to live in the country, but by regional standards it’s a bargain. It’s cheaper than notoriously pricey capitals like Luanda in Angola and Maputo in Mozambique.

That said, costs have risen, particularly in expat-focused areas. Expats will likely shell out more than they’re used to for private healthcare, international school fees,  and comfortable housing. You may also have to account for additional living expenses you wouldn’t incur back home, such as bottled or filtered drinking water, a security guard, a driver, and a backup generator for power cuts.

Fortunately, many expats find their employer covers some of the heftiest expenses. Multinational companies and international organisations increasingly offer packages with housing, transport, relocation, and school-fee allowances; the last of these can be substantial at international schools. It’s best to negotiate these benefits into your package where possible, so you can offset a big share of your cost of living here.

Cost of accommodation in Kenya

The cost of accommodation in Kenya will likely be your most significant expense. Most expats with a fixed-term contract who don’t intend to settle in the country long term opt to rent. Rent in cities such as Nairobi and Mombasa is higher than in rural areas. For years, landlords in prime areas raised rents because expats and wealthy Kenyans competed for a limited supply of homes. Fewer renters are competing now, so tenants have more room to negotiate.

Expats should consider the cost of security when choosing where to live. A lot of expats choose to live in secure gated communities, where rents can be as high as in parts of Europe. Luxury developments often have round-the-clock security patrols and controlled access.

Renting Accommodation in Kenya 
Safety in Kenya

Cost of transport in Kenya

Commuters who use public transport spend almost nothing on fares, so the cost of transport in Kenya is low. Expats rarely use it, though, because it’s uncomfortable and inefficient. Matatus (shared minibuses) are how most commuters get around, and fares for short trips are minimal, although the vehicles are frequently overcrowded and the drivers can be erratic. Nairobi’s long-promised Bus Rapid Transit system has had years of delays, and its rollout has been gradual.

Many expats rely on ride-hailing services such as Uber and Bolt for getting around the city, or they hire private drivers for their regular commute. In the longer term, expats often buy or hire a car and hire a local driver. A four-wheel drive is the best option for travelling around the country, although it’s pricier than a regular vehicle.

Getting Around in Kenya

Cost of groceries in Kenya

Imported food and household products can be quite expensive, and the cost of groceries in Kenya can be high for those who want a taste of home. Buying local is the best way to save money, and because of the country’s stellar climate, you’ll find affordable and quality fruit and vegetables in the local markets.

Cost of entertainment and eating out in Kenya

The cost of eating out in Kenya will be low at local spots but far dearer at Western ones. At local eateries and nyama choma (grilled meat) joints, you can get generous portions for next to nothing. Most Western-style restaurants are in expat areas and use expensive imported ingredients.

The bigger cities in Kenya have a lively nightlife. For a local beer, head to one of the country’s many small bars, where you can enjoy a cold Tusker at sundown for a fraction of the price back home.

Cost of education in Kenya

Expats moving here with children have to consider the cost of education in Kenya. Although public schools in Kenya are free, most expats prefer the teaching at private or international schools.

International schools charge steep fees. At the most expensive, you’ll pay as much as you would for private education in Europe or North America. The facilities and teaching standards are excellent, so you’ll have to weigh whether they’re worth the cost.

Education and Schools in Kenya 
International Schools in Nairobi

Cost of healthcare in Kenya

Plan carefully for the cost of healthcare in Kenya. Most expats skip the public system in favour of private hospitals and clinics, where care is better but the bills are higher. The government has replaced the old NHIF scheme with the Social Health Authority (SHA), and the rollout has had plenty of teething problems.

Expats should arrange solid health insurance for their family, because paying out of pocket for private treatment is expensive. Many expats take out international health insurance so they’re covered both in Kenya and abroad.

Healthcare and Medical Insurance in Kenya

Cost of living in Kenya chart

Prices are listed in Kenyan shillings (KES) and may vary depending on the product and service provider. The list below shows average prices for Nairobi in September 2026.

Anyone moving to Kenya soon has to work out how to get around, and the public transport network is patchy outside the main routes. There are long-distance buses to most large towns, and you can now take the Madaraka Express train between Nairobi and Mombasa in about five hours. Beyond those corridors, though, options are limited, and journeys can be slow. Day to day, you'll see plenty of matatus, which are shared minibuses packed with commuters. Tuk-tuks and boda bodas (motorcycle taxis) are everywhere too. These can be an experience in their own right, but they're often uncomfortable and risky.

For everyday travel, most expats drive or hire a local driver who knows the roads and local driving habits. For longer journeys across the country, domestic flights are usually the most practical option.

Public transport in Kenya

The main public transport options in Kenya are long-distance buses and the railway. You can reach most large towns by bus, although journeys are slow. There's far less choice by rail, but Kenya Railways now runs the Madaraka Express between Nairobi and Mombasa several times a day, and it's become a real alternative to flying or driving.

Buses

Kenya has both local bus services and a large long-distance network used by most domestic travellers. Travelling by bus is a cost-effective but time-consuming way to get around.

As bus journeys in Kenya are long and not always comfortable, it's best to travel with an established company that runs a modern fleet, such as Modern Coast, Easy Coach, Dreamline Express, or Coast Bus. Book your ticket in advance, especially on popular routes.

Pay for a first-class ticket and you'll get a larger seat with extra legroom. You'll pay more again for premium services, but the comfort is worth it. Expect reclining seats, WiFi, entertainment screens, and USB charging ports.

Trains

Trains in Kenya used to be more of a tourist novelty than a practical way to travel. In 2017, Kenya Railways opened the Standard Gauge Railway (SGR) between Mombasa and Nairobi, and rail became a serious option.

On the Madaraka Express, you can now travel between the two cities in about five hours. On the old metre-gauge line, the same journey was more than twice as long. It's faster and more comfortable than the bus.

You'll pay a little less than a long-distance bus fare for an economy-class ticket, and considerably more for first class.

Matatus

Matatus are privately run minibuses for short and medium trips. The classic matatu is a 14-seater Nissan, although some are larger minibuses with room for 25 or more. Drivers often cram in more passengers than they should.

Riding a matatu is a uniquely Kenyan experience. The minibuses are covered in bright, hand-painted artwork, and the music is loud, but the ride can be risky. Drivers weave in and out of traffic to save time and pull over without warning to pick up passengers.

Matatus are the cheapest way to get around, and you pay by distance. Because of the safety concerns, many expats stick to local buses or their own car.

Tuk-tuks

Tuk-tuks are three-wheeled motorised taxis, and they're common in Kenya's main cities, especially along the coast. There's room for up to three passengers, and they're a quick way to nip around town.

Prices aren't fixed, so you'll need to agree a fare with the driver before you set off.

Boda bodas

Boda bodas are the motorcycle taxis you'll see all over Kenya, and they're the quickest way through Nairobi's gridlock. On rural roads, they're often the only transport around. They're cheap, and you can now book one through apps like Uber and Bolt. They're risky, though. Motorcycle crashes are one of the leading causes of road injuries in Kenya, so insist on a helmet, and skip the ride if you're carrying luggage or the traffic is heavy.

Useful links

• Madaraka Express
• Kenya Railways Corporation

Nairobi
Safety in Kenya

Taxis in Kenya

Hailing a taxi in Kenya is straightforward in the larger cities. You can flag one down on the street or book ahead, but agree on the fare before you get in, because meters are often broken or switched off.

It helps to know the going rate for common routes so you're not overcharged. Where you can, pick a taxi with a working meter; otherwise, settle on a price upfront.

Ride-hailing is well established in Kenya's cities. Uber and Bolt are the biggest, and the home-grown Little is a popular local option. You can book through the app and see the fare before you accept. Most riders pay with M-Pesa mobile money, although cards and cash are accepted too. Expect higher fares at peak times.

Useful links

• Uber Nairobi
• Bolt Nairobi
• Little

Driving in Kenya

Driving is how most expats in Kenya get around, and a car is far more flexible than public transport. It's not for the faint-hearted, though.

Many road users drive aggressively and recklessly, so stay alert when driving and crossing roads. Dealing with the traffic is by no means stress-free, and in some areas the roads are potholed and poorly maintained. Driving across the country at your own pace and taking in the scenery sounds appealing, but you'll spend more time dodging potholes than enjoying the view.

Most global car-rental companies have branches in Nairobi and Mombasa. Smaller local rental companies offer more competitive rates but may be less reliable. Many will also rent you a car with a driver included. Once you've settled in, you might buy a car and hire a driver, or your employer may arrange both.

Driver's licences

You can drive in Kenya on a valid foreign driver's licence or an International Driving Permit for up to three months. If your licence isn't in English, carry an official translation or an IDP. To stay on the road after that, you'll need a Kenyan driver's licence.

You apply to the National Transport and Safety Authority (NTSA) through the eCitizen portal. Set up an account, then upload your foreign licence, passport, alien (residence) card, and a driver's licence confirmation letter from the issuing authority back home. The old paper booklet has been replaced by a credit-card-style smart driver's licence.

Useful links

• National Transport and Safety Authority (NTSA)

Domestic flights in Kenya

Domestic flights in Kenya are often the fastest way to cross the country. Kenya Airways, the national carrier, operates daily flights between the main cities and also serves international routes. Its low-cost arm, Jambojet, flies the busiest domestic routes. It connects Nairobi with Mombasa, Kisumu, Eldoret, and Diani. For safari lodges and remote airstrips, Airkenya Express and Safarilink run light aircraft into the national parks.

Delays and cancellations are fairly common, so build in some buffer around connections.

Useful links

• Kenya Airways
• Jambojet
• Airkenya

Traditional visas are no longer issued in Kenya. An Electronic Travel Authorisation (eTA) system has been in place since January 2024, and most visitors must apply for an eTA online before they travel. This includes citizens of the United States, the United Kingdom, Canada, Australia, and most European countries.

Nationals of nearly every African country are exempt and can enter visa-free for up to two months. The only exceptions are Somalia and Libya, whose citizens still need an eTA. You can check the official eTA portal for the current list of exempt countries. Citizens of East African Community countries can stay for up to 180 days and may enter with a national ID card. 

You can apply for the eTA up to 90 days before travel, and it's wise to do so at least three days ahead. Approval usually takes around three working days, sometimes longer. Visa on arrival is no longer an option, so you cannot simply turn up at the airport and pay for entry.

You'll need a yellow fever vaccination certificate only if you're arriving from, or passing through, a country where the disease is present. Travellers who fly in directly from Europe or North America generally don't need one.

Tourist visas for Kenya

Tourist visas for Kenya are issued electronically through the eTA system. The eTA is valid for a single entry, and you can stay for up to 90 days. You must enter the country within 90 days of the date it's issued, and once you arrive, the immigration officer sets the exact length of your stay.

When you apply, you generally need to provide a travel itinerary that sets out where you plan to go, proof of accommodation such as a hotel booking, a passport valid for at least six months, and a return or onward ticket. If you're staying with friends or family, an invitation letter that states their address is accepted instead.

The standard eTA is for a single entry. If you expect to visit Kenya regularly, a multiple-entry eTA that is valid for up to five years is available to some nationalities, including US citizens.

Extensions

To extend your stay, apply for a visitor's pass extension at the Immigration Headquarters in Nairobi or your nearest immigration office. You can lodge the application online through the eFNS portal and generate Form 22. You'll need the following documents:

• A copy of the bio-data page of your passport
• A copy of your previous visa endorsement
• Proof of a pending application, if applicable
• A valid passport with at least six months before expiry
• Two passport-sized photos

An extension is valid for up to 90 days, and you can renew it one more time. In total, you can stay for up to 180 days on a visitor's pass. Apply at least two weeks before your current pass expires to give the office time to process it.

Useful links

• Kenya eTA Portal
• Directorate of Immigration Services

Business visas for Kenya

For a business trip to Kenya, you apply for the same eTA that tourists use. It is valid for 90 days and can be extended for a further 90 days, which is long enough for the few months a project or a run of meetings might take.

On an eTA, you can carry out a range of business activities:

• Attending meetings and negotiations
• Exploring business ventures and carrying out market research
• Joining conferences, seminars, workshops, and trade fairs
• Negotiating contracts and agreements
• Running pre-sales activities or product demonstrations

You cannot take up paid employment or work for a Kenyan company on an eTA. To work in Kenya, you need a permit.

To apply, you provide documents that prove the purpose of your visit:

• An invitation letter from the host company in Kenya
• Proof that you can support yourself financially during your stay
• A travel itinerary that includes your flights and accommodation
• Company registration documents if you are representing a company
• A tax compliance certificate, if applicable
• Copies of previous visas if you have travelled to Kenya before

Useful links

• Trade.gov: Kenya Country Commercial Guide

Family visit visas for Kenya

Family visit visas for Kenya are handled through the eTA as well, so relatives who come to stay with you for a few months apply online, just like any other traveller. To qualify, the visitor must be a family member of a Kenyan citizen or of a foreign national resident in Kenya. Close relatives such as spouses, children, parents, and siblings usually qualify.

The visit has to be genuinely for seeing family, not for work or business. On a family visit eTA, you cannot work or do business of any kind.

You'll need to prove your family relationship, which usually means one or more of the following:

• A marriage certificate for a spouse
• A birth certificate for a child
• Affidavits or legal documents for less direct relationships
• Official identification of the Kenyan citizen or resident, such as an ID or passport

A family visit eTA is valid for up to 90 days, like a tourist eTA, and you can extend it if you need more time.

Work and residence permits for Kenya

Work and residence permits for Kenya are required for any stay beyond six months. If you plan to live or work in the country for the long term, you'll have to arrange the right permit before you arrive. There are several classes of permits, each intended for a particular purpose, such as employment, business, investment, or retirement.

The most common route for employees is the Class D permit, which an employer applies for on your behalf once you have a firm job offer. The process can be involved, and you may wait several weeks to a few months for approval. A relocation company can take a lot of the paperwork off your hands.

Work Permits for Kenya
Relocation Companies in Kenya

Visa and permit rules can change at short notice. Check the official eTA portal or a Kenyan embassy or high commission for the latest details before you travel.

Kenyan embassies

• Kenya Embassy, Washington, DC, United States: +1 202 387 6101
• Kenya High Commission, London, United Kingdom: +44 20 7636 2371
• Embassy of the Republic of Kenya, Dublin, Ireland: +353 1 613 6380
• Kenya High Commission, Ottawa, Canada: +1 613 563 1773
• High Commission of the Republic of Kenya, Canberra, Australia (also responsible for New Zealand): +61 2 6247 4788
• Kenya High Commission, Pretoria, South Africa: +27 12 362 2249

Foreign embassies in Kenya

• United States Embassy, Nairobi: +254 20 363 6000
• British High Commission, Nairobi: +254 20 287 3000
• High Commission of Canada, Nairobi: +254 20 366 3000 
• Australian High Commission, Nairobi: +254 20 427 7100
• South African High Commission, Nairobi: +254 72 220 4927
• Embassy of Ireland, Nairobi: +254 20 513 5300

Kenyan families take education seriously, and many make big sacrifices to see their children through school. Once you're here, you can choose from public, private, and international schools and nurseries for the youngest children.

Many public schools are underfunded and have too few qualified teachers and stretched resources, especially in rural and low-income areas. There are good government schools, particularly in the cities, but most expats still go private or international. Those routes tend to be less disruptive for your child, especially on a short posting.

Public schools in Kenya

Since 2017, the government has been rolling out the Competency-Based Education (CBE) system, and the old 8-4-4 system is being phased out. CBE is built around practical skills and continuous assessment, rather than the exam drilling it replaced.

Under CBE, children move up through several stages:

• Pre-primary (PP1 and PP2), ages 4 to 5
• Primary school (Grades 1 to 6), ages 6 to 11
• Junior school (Grades 7 to 9), ages 12 to 14
• Senior school (Grades 10 to 12), ages 15 to 17

The leaving exams are different now too. The Kenya Certificate of Primary Education (KCPE) was retired in 2023, and the Kenya Certificate of Secondary Education (KCSE) is on its way out as the last 8-4-4 classes finish school. Children now sit the Kenya Primary School Education Assessment (KPSEA) at the end of Grade 6 and the Kenya Junior School Education Assessment (KJSEA) at the end of Grade 9. The Ministry of Education uses Grade 9 results to place students in senior school, where they follow one of three pathways: STEM, the social sciences, or arts and sports science.

There's no tuition at public day schools. You'll still cover uniforms, meals, stationery, and the odd activity fee, though. Public schools are unevenly resourced, so a well-funded school in Nairobi or Mombasa may have more subjects on the timetable and smaller classes than a stretched rural one.

English is the main language of instruction from upper primary onwards, while Kiswahili is compulsory from Grade 1 right through senior school. In the early grades, lessons are often taught in the local language of the area.

Useful links

• Ministry of Education, Kenya

Private schools in Kenya

If you're coming from the UK, you'll find private schools in Kenya familiar, since many of them are modelled on the British system. They tend to have smaller classes, better facilities, more individual attention, and a fuller programme of sport, music, drama, and clubs than most public schools. Standards are generally higher than in the public system too, mostly thanks to better funding and resources.

Many private schools also have more freedom over their curriculum, and you'll find both Kenyan and British systems on offer. Fees are lower than at international schools but higher than the largely free public system. On top of tuition, you'll pay for uniforms, textbooks, transport, and extras like clubs and trips.

International schools in Kenya

Nairobi has the widest choice of international schools in Kenya, although Mombasa and a few other towns have options too. British-curriculum schools are especially common, thanks to Kenya's long educational ties with Britain. You'll also find the International Baccalaureate (IB) at some schools, plus French, German, Swedish, American, and Dutch national curricula for families who want them.

Standards are high. Teachers are usually well qualified and experienced, and classes are small enough for children to get proper attention. Most schools also have a full programme of sport, drama, music, and outdoor activities.

The catch is cost. On top of tuition, budget for textbooks, uniforms, stationery, and trips, and boarding is available at some schools for an additional fee. If you're moving to Kenya for work, try to negotiate an allowance for school fees into your package, because international school costs add up fast.

International Schools in Nairobi

Useful links

• International Baccalaureate in Kenya

Nurseries in Kenya

Nurseries and kindergartens in Kenya are easy to find, especially in larger cities like Nairobi and Mombasa. The early years matter enormously for a child's development. In the first five years or so, children pick up the cognitive, social, emotional, and physical foundations they build on for the rest of their schooling. Nurseries are also a handy place to meet other parents and start building a social circle.

Play-based learning is the norm at most nurseries, and the focus is on all-around early development. Some are attached to larger international schools, and a number follow the Montessori method. Fees at these can be steep.

When you're choosing a nursery, weigh up how close it is to home or work, along with the teachers' qualifications, the fees, the facilities, and the curriculum.

Accommodation in Kenya

Special educational needs in Kenya

For special educational needs in Kenya, private and international schools are generally better set up than the public system. Many draw up an Individualised Education Plan (IEP) for each child so that teaching is tailored to their needs. They often employ trained special-needs teachers and therapists. Many bring children with disabilities into mainstream classes alongside their peers, and they generally have better access to assistive technology and specialist materials.

Public schools are far less well equipped. Many are short of resources, trained staff, accessible buildings, and specialist materials, and some can't properly support children with disabilities at all.

If you're moving to Kenya with a child who needs extra support, contact private and international schools directly and ask exactly what they provide. That might mean extra learning-support sessions, therapy, teaching assistants, or adapted devices for children with hearing or visual impairments. The government's Kenya Institute of Special Education (KISE) assesses children with special needs and can point you towards suitable schools and services.

Useful links

• Kenya Institute of Special Education (KISE)

Tutors in Kenya

Tutors in Kenya are easy to find, and many families bring one in around exam time. Online tutoring platforms are the usual starting point, and word of mouth from other parents or teachers is a solid option too.

Online tutoring is flexible. Children can learn at their own pace and book sessions around the school day. Most platforms also have recorded lessons, practice exercises, quizzes, and other study tools, and children can work with tutors anywhere in the country, so they're not stuck with whoever lives nearby.

Around exam time, a good tutor will draw up a revision plan, run practice papers, target weak spots, and help your child keep exam nerves in check.

Useful links

• TeacherOn
• Prep Academy Tutors
• Apprentus

The weather in Kenya depends more on your altitude than your latitude, and it's the country's elevation above sea level that sets its climate zones apart. The coast is hot and humid year-round, and the heaviest rain falls during the long rains. Temperatures there are typically 72°F to 86°F (22°C to 30°C).

Inland, and especially in the highlands, the climate is temperate and much cooler. Temperatures range from 57°F to 82°F (14°C to 28°C), and in the cool season around July and August, the evenings can turn genuinely chilly, so newcomers to Nairobi are often surprised to be reaching for a jacket.

The north and northeast are hot and dry, and rainfall there is sparse and unpredictable. Farming is difficult as a result.

Because Kenya is on the equator, temperatures change little from one season to the next. Rainfall is an entirely different story. The country has two distinct wet seasons each year, which are known as the long rains and the short rains. The long rains fall from March to May and bring the heaviest downpours of the year. On the coast, they come a little later and last into June. The short rains, from October to December, are lighter but still important for farming.

The long dry season from June to October is the best time for safaris and outdoor plans, and the wildebeest migration reaches the Masai Mara in the second half of the year. There's also a shorter dry spell around January and February. Wet months are harder going for travel, especially the heavy April and May downpours.

Moving to Nairobi
Moving to Mombasa