THINGS TO CONSIDER WHEN MOVING TO KENYA AS A FOREIGNERS 

Kenya is ranked as one of the best country to start and run a successful business across the African continent. It has been pegged as the African Silicon Valley after attracting a considerable amount of interest from tech multinational and is hailed as a good hub for start-ups to thrive in. Some of the multinationals that have established their office in Nairobi include: Google, Emirates airline Microsoft, Oracle, Cisco and Coca-Cola.

Non-Kenyans often give mixed reactions when asked about their experiences moving into the country. One thing is for sure that local Kenyans are hospitable and tolerable. The ever-rising number of foreigners in the country is proof enough that Kenya is a favourite destination not only for investors but also for foreigners who would wish to settle and permanently reside in the country. In this article we provide an insight on the things foreigners need to consider while coming to Kenya.

Permit

Foreigners wishing to work or establish their businesses in Kenya are required to have a valid work permit. The most commons are Class D -employment permit which allows one to be employed by business entities established in Kenya, Class G permit which is issued to foreigners who wish to engage in trade, business and consultancy services, Class C permit issued to persons who wish to practice their profession in Kenya. Of importance to note is that when applying for these permits, the applicant must produce such supporting documents as academic certificates, certificate of good conduct, for some documentary proof of assured income, incorporation documents of local establishments, have local understudy to support their applicationand proof of payment of processing and government fee among others.

Accommodation

Ones you have the permit you will also require to consider an accommodation plan. Most foreigners prefer purchasing or leasing a home for convenience’s sake. The purchase option is viable if you want your children or kin to inherit the property after you. The constitution of Kenya guarantees the right to property to every person. This means that not only local citizens can own property but also foreign nationals. On the other hand leasing a home is also available where you do not intend to stay for long and is generally available as there are several available residential apartments within Nairobi City. 

Citizenship

Upon a peaceful and lawful residence in Kenya for at least seven years, you may also consider and apply for Kenyan citizenship. The constitution of Kenya guarantees the right of citizenship by registration to every eligible foreign applicant. The law provides that any person married to a citizen for a period of at least seven years or any person who has lawfully been resident in Kenya for at least seven years or any child adopted by a citizen, on application is entitled to be registered as a citizen.

For more information or assistance on moving to Kenya get in touch with us on www.aowangaadvocates.com.

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