Prospecting and Mining Work Permit in Kenya

This permit is issued to a person intending to engage, whether alone or in partnership, in prospecting for minerals or mining in Kenya.

The relevant permit category is known as Class A : Prospecting and Miners-KEP/A.

• The permit is issued to individuals or companes intending to engage in prospecting for minerals or mining in Kenya.
• You must have the necessary prospecting or mining rights or a license.
• Sufficient capital for the investment, and proof of funds of at least USD 100,000.

To obtain a Prospecting and Mining Work Permit in Kenya, follow these steps:

1. Obtain a Prospecting or Mining License: This is required to engage in any mining activities in Kenya. Apply for and secure the relevant license from the State Department of Mining.
2. Apply for a Work Permit: Once you have the necessary mining license, apply for a work permit through the Department of Immigration Services' eFNS Portal.

Here is a list of mandatory documents required to apply for the permit:

1. A duly filled and signed Form 25 online form.
2. Two copies of a detailed and signed cover letter from the employer/organization, addressed to the Director of Immigration Services.
3. A copy of a valid national passport.
4. Two recent passport-sized colored photos (for both new applications and renewals).
5. Current immigration status if in the country.
6. A copy of any previous permits or passes held.
7. Necessary licenses and registrations to prospect for and mine minerals.
8. Proof of funds to invest, at least USD 100,000.
9. Current license held for prospecting minerals (for renewals).
10. A copy of the PIN certificate.
11. Current, signed audited accounts for the last year (for renewals).
12. Tax compliance certificate from KRA (for renewals).

Applications are done online though the Kenya electronic Foreign Nationals Services (eFNS) portal

1. Create an eFNS Account: Begin by registering on the Kenya electronic Foreign Nationals Services (eFNS) portal to set up your account.
2. Fill the Online Application Form: Complete Form 25 online, ensuring you provide all required personal details, business information, and supporting documents.
3. Upload and Submit Required Documents: Gather and submit necessary documents such as a valid passport, passport photos, proof of funds, and any previous permits you may have held.
4. Payment: Pay the processing fee of KES. 20,000 to proceed with your application.
5. Submit the Application: Finally, present your completed application along with all required documents at the Immigration headquarters in Nairobi (Nyayo House) for processing.

When applying for this permit, there are specific fees to consider;.

1. There is a non-refundable processing fee of KES 20,000.
2. Upon approval, an issuance fee of KES 500,000 per year is required.
3. Applicants from East Africa Community Member States are exempt from these fees. 

It is important to note that applications for permit renewal should be submitted three months before the expiration date.

The processing time is 14 days.

The validity period is one year.

• All payments should be made through the provided online mode provided.
• The registration fee is non-refundable.
• The applicant must be present in person when submitting the application at the immigration headquarters or regional offices for registration.
• Citizens of the East Africa Community (Uganda, Tanzania, Rwanda, and Burundi) are exempt from the processing and permit fee.

eFNS Portal

Directorate of Immigration Services