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Pathway

Kenya Business Residence

Kenya Residency
Pathway overview

At a glance

Kenya's Class G permit is for people who want to run an approved trade, business, or consultancy in Kenya. You need at least USD $100,000 available for the business and permission for your own role.

Permit
Class G for an approved trade, business, or consultancy
Business funds
At least USD $100,000
Key records
Company, tax, bank, and overseas funds-transfer records

Summary

Kenya's Class G permit allows an approved foreign operator to live in Kenya while running a genuine local trade, consultancy, or business. The activity needs the appropriate licenses and must benefit Kenya. At least USD $100,000 must be available, supported by bank and overseas-transfer evidence.

Company ownership, registration and tax records form part of the file, but incorporation alone does not authorize the owner to operate. Some professions use a different permit category, so establish the correct basis before starting work or committing to the business structure.

Could this pathway work for you?

Eligibility

Your business must fit Class G, have the required licenses, and benefit Kenya. Some professions have their own permit category, so check which one applies before preparing an application.

You will need company registration and ownership records, tax registration, bank confirmation of the capital, and proof that the funds were transferred from abroad. Apply for your own Class G permit before you start operating the business.

Starting a business in Kenya
  1. Check the business Confirm that the activity and your role fit Class G.
  2. Show the funds Document at least USD $100,000 and the transfer from abroad.
  3. Apply before operating Obtain your permit and any other required approvals.

Your company and your personal permission to run it both need to qualify.

What This Route Allows

You can live in Kenya for the approved business activity and permit period. You must also obtain any separate work or professional permission your role requires.

What This Route Is Not

Registering a company, holding shares, or buying property does not by itself give you permission to live in Kenya. This route does not grant citizenship or guarantee permanent residence.

Next Steps

  1. Check that your business, foreign ownership, and personal role are allowed under Class G.
  2. Gather the company, licensing, tax, bank, and funds-transfer records.
  3. Apply for your permit and any other required approvals before starting work. Keep the supporting records current.

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Sources