FAQ
Answers to the questions we hear most.
Immigration FAQs
How long does a work permit take?
Typically 60–120 working days depending on class and Directorate workload.
Can I work in Kenya on a visitor visa?
No. Employment in Kenya requires a valid work permit or Special Pass.
What is the difference between a work permit and Special Pass?
A work permit is a long-term authorisation (1–2 years, renewable). A Special Pass is a short-term authorisation up to 6 months.
Do children of work permit holders need a pass?
Yes — they require a Dependant Pass linked to the principal's permit.
How long is Permanent Residence valid?
PR is granted for life, subject to continued residency conditions.
Can I have dual citizenship in Kenya?
Yes. Kenya recognises dual citizenship for adults.
What is an Alien ID and who needs it?
The Alien ID is a mandatory identification card for foreign residents aged 18+ on work permits or PR.
How long can I stay on eTA?
Up to 90 days, extendable once for another 90 days.
Do I need police clearance?
Yes, from Kenya and from your country of origin for most work permit and PR applications.
Can spouses of Kenyan citizens get PR?
Yes, after 3 years of marriage and continuous residence, subject to conditions.
Tax & Accounting FAQs
Who needs a KRA PIN?
Anyone earning income in Kenya, buying property, opening a bank account, importing, or dealing with government services.
When are individual returns due?
By 30 June for income earned in the prior calendar year.
When are company returns due?
Within six months of the company's financial year end.
What is Turnover Tax?
A simplified tax at 3% of gross sales for businesses with turnover between KES 1M and KES 25M.
What is the current VAT rate?
16% standard rate, with 8% and 0% applying to specified goods and services.
What are the PAYE brackets?
PAYE is progressive from 10% to 35%. We prepare accurate payroll computations.
What happens if I don't file returns?
Penalties apply: KES 2,000 for individuals and KES 20,000 for companies, plus interest on unpaid tax.
Do NGOs pay tax?
Registered NGOs may be exempt on qualifying income but must still file returns and comply with PAYE and WHT.
Can I file returns myself?
Yes, via iTax. We also offer iTax training if you'd like to file in-house.
How long should I keep tax records?
At least 5 years, per the Tax Procedures Act.
Legal Support FAQs
Do you provide legal representation in court?
We provide advisory and documentation support. For litigation, we work with a network of trusted advocates.
Can you draft business contracts?
Yes. We prepare shareholder agreements, employment contracts, NDAs, service agreements and more.
How is confidentiality maintained?
We operate under strict confidentiality protocols and can sign bespoke NDAs on request.
Do you handle NGO registration?
Yes — full registration under the NGO Coordination Act or the Societies Act as appropriate.
Can you assist with government tenders?
Yes. We assist with pre-qualification, tax compliance certificates and supporting documentation.
Do you provide corporate advisory?
Yes — governance, compliance, restructuring, and regulatory advisory.
What is a Certificate of Good Conduct?
A police-issued clearance required for many permits, employment, and PR applications. We assist with fast-tracking.
Can you help with land or property documentation?
Yes. We assist with due diligence, KRA PINs and compliance for property transactions.
Do you draft policies and staff handbooks?
Yes. We prepare HR policies, code of conduct, and compliance manuals.
Are your legal fees fixed?
We offer fixed fees for standard matters and hourly rates for complex advisory. Estimates are always agreed upfront.
Ready to get started?
Book a free consultation with our specialists today.