Kenya is East Africa's largest economy and its business, tech and diplomatic hub. Nairobi, nicknamed the "Silicon Savannah", hosts United Nations offices, regional headquarters and a vibrant start-up scene built around mobile money. Safari parks, the Indian Ocean coast and a pleasant highland climate add to the appeal.

Visas and permits

Visitors now apply for an Electronic Travel Authorisation (eTA) before travel. For longer stays, permits are issued through the Department of Immigration's eFNS portal:

  • Class N digital nomad permit: launched in 2025 for people working remotely for companies outside Kenya, running a foreign business or serving foreign clients. It is issued for one or two years and is renewable. Holders may not work for Kenyan employers. Fees include a processing fee and an annual issuance fee; check current amounts and evidence requirements before applying.
  • Class D employment permit: for foreigners hired by Kenyan organisations for roles that cannot be filled locally.
  • Class G investor permit: for people investing in and running a business in Kenya.
  • Class K residence: for retirees and people with assured income from abroad who will not work.

How much does it cost to live in Kenya?

Our Kenya data puts an average one-bedroom at about $450 a month and a three-bedroom at about $1,000, but expat-favoured Nairobi neighbourhoods such as Westlands, Kilimani, Lavington and Karen cost more, especially for secure compounds. Groceries cost about $200 a month for local produce, while imported goods are pricey. M-Pesa mobile money is used for almost everything.

How Kenyan tax works

Kenya taxes employment income through PAYE at monthly bands of 10%, 25%, 30%, 32.5% and 35%, according to the Kenya Revenue Authority. Employees also pay 2.75% of gross salary to the Social Health Insurance Fund (SHIF), the 1.5% Affordable Housing Levy and NSSF pension contributions. VAT is 16%. Class N holders working for foreign companies should check their tax residency position, which generally applies after 183 days in a year. Try our tax calculator.

Healthcare

Expats use private hospitals in Nairobi, such as Aga Khan University Hospital, Nairobi Hospital and MP Shah, which offer good care. International health insurance with evacuation cover is strongly recommended.

Safety and daily life

Kenya is welcoming, and English and Swahili are both official languages, which makes daily life easier for English speakers. Nairobi's altitude of about 1,800 metres gives it mild temperatures all year. Security is a real consideration: petty crime and carjackings occur, so most expats live in secure buildings and avoid walking at night. Some border regions are unsafe, and traffic is notoriously heavy.

On the upside, the Maasai Mara, Amboseli and Lake Naivasha are within easy reach for weekend safaris, and the coast at Diani and Lamu offers beaches and Swahili culture.

Is Kenya a good place to move?

Kenya suits remote workers, NGO and development professionals, entrepreneurs and wildlife lovers who are comfortable with security precautions. Compare it with South Africa and Morocco in our comparison tool.