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Kenya has become a top choice for expats, NGOs, and international companies. Its economy is growing, the non-profit sector is vibrant, and the country serves as a gateway to East Africa. For anyone planning to live and work here, a work permit is the first hurdle.
Applying for one may look simple at first glance. The process is online, the requirements are published, and the forms are accessible. Yet many applications still end up delayed or rejected. The reason is often small errors that create big setbacks. For individuals, this can mean stress and uncertainty. For organizations, it can stall important projects and disrupt operations.
Why Applications Get Stuck
The most common problem is incomplete paperwork. A single missing or outdated document is enough to hold up an application. Another frequent issue is choosing the wrong class of permit. Kenya has different categories depending on whether you are employed, investing, running an NGO, or offering specialized skills. Filing under the wrong one almost always leads to rejection.
Employers and NGOs face their own challenges. If the sponsoring organization has compliance gaps, such as missing tax records, immigration authorities will not process the application. Finally, follow-up is often overlooked. Once the application is submitted, it requires active tracking, and without that, files can sit unattended for weeks.
The Real Cost of Delays
Delays can have serious consequences. Projects may stall, jobs remain unfilled, and businesses lose valuable time. NGOs often bring in staff for urgent assignments, so a delay of even a few weeks can affect service delivery and funding commitments.
There are also legal risks. Working in Kenya without a valid permit is an offence that can result in fines or deportation. Families relocating to Kenya are also affected. Dependent passes are tied to work permits, so until the main application is approved, spouses and children are left waiting. This uncertainty can make the transition to a new country even harder.
How We Make It Easier
At Valarie N. Waswa & Company Advocates, we work with expats, NGOs, and employers to keep the process smooth and predictable. We start by reviewing documents before submission to ensure every requirement is met. We also guide clients on the right class of permit, which reduces the risk of rejection.
Our team handles the follow-up with immigration offices so clients don’t waste time navigating bureaucracy. For organizations, we make sure compliance obligations are in order before the application is filed. We also offer bundled support that goes beyond work permits, including dependent passes, special passes, investor permits, and NGO staff permits. This makes it easier for clients to handle all their immigration needs under one roof.
Don’t Let Paperwork Hold You Back
Moving to Kenya or staffing a project here does not have to be a stressful experience. With the right support, permits can be secured on time and without unnecessary obstacles.
If you are an expat, investor, or NGO planning to work in Kenya, let’s get it right from the start. Book a consultation today and make your move smooth, compliant, and worry-free.
About the Author
Valarie Waswa is a lawyer by profession, an Advocate of the High Court of Kenya and East Africa by extension, and the Founding Partner of Valarie Waswa & Co. Advocates
Contact Us
For more information, contact us on WhatsApp Business at +254 707 059 485 or email us at info@valariewaswa.com