Kenya retirement visa: the Class K permit

Under the Seventh Schedule, a Class K permit goes to a person aged at least 35 who has, in their own right and at their full disposal, an assured annual income not derived from any employment, trade, business or profession covered by the other classes. The income must either come from outside Kenya and be remitted to Kenya, or be a pension or annuity payable from sources in Kenya. Regulation 19(4) fixes the minimum at USD 24,000 a year or its equivalent in Kenyan shillings.

The applicant must undertake not to accept employment, paid or unpaid, or carry on any income-generating activity without a permit of the relevant class, and their presence must benefit Kenya. Although no upper age limit or retirement status is required, the permit suits retirees and people of independent means; a pension paid abroad and transferred to Kenya would be a typical income source.

The Directorate asks for Form 25 completed and signed; a signed cover letter from the applicant to the Director General of Immigration Services; a recent colour photo; current immigration status if already in Kenya; the passport bio page; and documentary proof of an assured annual income of at least USD 24,000 or its equivalent, derived from sources outside Kenya and remitted to Kenya, or from a pension or annuity. Pension award letters and bank statements showing regular transfers are the natural evidence. Documents in other languages must be translated into English by an embassy, notary or recognised institution.

The processing fee is KES 20,000 and is not refunded. On approval the issuance fee is KES 250,000 for each year of validity, according to the Class K page and the Directorate's 2025 service delivery charter. Citizens of East African Community partner states pay no fees. The charter sets 21 working days for new permits and 10 for renewals.

A Class K permit is valid for the period stated in it only as long as the holder keeps the required income at their disposal. No permit is issued or renewed for more than five years at a time. Residents must hold an alien card, report changes in their circumstances, and may bring a spouse and children on Dependant's Passes at KES 10,000 each. Seven years on permits with three years of continuous residence opens the way to permanent residence as a lawful resident.