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Republic of Kenya Department of Immigration Services

Department of Immigration Services eFNS Foreign Nationals Services
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Work permits · Class M

Refugees

For refugees recognised in Kenya, and their spouses, who want to take up employment or a specific occupation, trade, business or profession.

Form 25
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Who it is for

This permit is issued to a person who has been granted refugee status in Kenya under the refugee law of Kenya, and to the spouse of such a refugee, who intends to take up employment or engage in a specific occupation, trade, business or profession.

What you need

Have these ready before you apply. Incomplete applications are not accepted.

  • Duly completed and signed Form 25, printed at the end of your online application

  • Two copies of a detailed, signed cover letter from the employer, organisation or yourself, addressed to the Director of Immigration Services

  • Copy of your valid national passport (bio-data page)

  • Two recent colour passport-size photographs

  • Your current immigration status, if you are in Kenya

  • English translations of any documents in other languages, by an embassy, a notary public or an authorised or recognised institution

  • Copies of any permits or passes you have held before

  • Recommendation letter from the Department of Refugee Affairs

  • Valid tax compliance certificates from KRA: the organisation’s for new applications, and both the organisation’s and your own for renewals

Fees

Fee Amount When it is charged
Processing fee When you apply No fee When you apply
Issuance fee When your application is approved No fee When your application is approved

Fees are set by the Department and can change: the amount on your invoice is the one that applies. Fees are non-refundable once paid.

How to apply

  1. Step 1: Sign in with eCitizen

    Use your Government of Kenya eCitizen account. If you do not have one yet, registration is free.

    Create an eCitizen account

  2. Step 2: Complete the application

    Fill in Form 25 online, for yourself or on behalf of someone else, and print it when you finish.

  3. Step 3: Present your documents

    Take your printed application and the documents listed above to the immigration office named under “Good to know”.

  4. Step 4: Follow your application

    You receive email and account notifications as your application moves through each stage.

Good to know

  • Incomplete applications will not be accepted.
  • Engaging in any form of business or employment without the requisite permit or pass is an offence.
  • Printed applications must be presented at Immigration headquarters or at any regional immigration office.