Work Permit for Refugees in Kenya

This permit is issued to a person who has been granted refugee status in Kenya in accordance with the refugee law of Kenya.

It also applies to any spouse of such a refugee who intends to take up employment or engage in a specific occupation, trade, business, or profession.

The Kenyan government has established specific criteria for a person seeking a refugee permit. This section outlines who qualifies for such a permit and under what circumstances.

1. Primary Applicant Requirements
1. A person must have been officially recognized as a refugee in Kenya.
2. This recognition must comply with Kenya's refugee laws and regulations.
2. Spouse Eligibility: The spouse of a qualifying refugee is also eligible to apply for a refugee permit.
3. Intended Purpose: To be considered for a refugee permit, the applicant (either the primary refugee or their spouse) must demonstrate one of the following intentions:
1. To seek employment opportunities within Kenya.
2. To engage in a specific occupation, trade, business, or professional activity in the country.

To obtain a refugee work permit, applicants must submit the following documents:

1. Form 25: Complete and sign the online form, which can be printed upon completion. Previous applications can be accessed through a provided link.
2. Cover Letter: Two copies of a detailed, signed cover letter from the employer, organization, or self, addressed to the Director of Immigration Services.
3. Passport: Copies of a valid national passport.
4. Recommendation Letter: A letter from the Department of Refugee Affairs.
5. Photographs: Two recent, colored passport-size photos for both new applications and renewals.
6. Immigration Status: Proof of current immigration status if already in the country.
7. Previous Permits: Copies of any previously held permits or passes.
8. Recommendation Letter: A letter from the Department of Refugee Affairs.
9. Tax Compliance:
1. For new cases: A valid organization Tax Compliance Certificate from KRA.
2. For renewals: Both organization and individual Tax Compliance Certificates from KRA.

Documents in foreign languages should be translated into English by the Embassy, a Public Notary, or an authorized/recognized institution.

The Refugee Work Permit application process in Kenya is done online on the electronic Foreign Nationals Services (eFNS) portal . Here's a detailed breakdown of the application procedure:

1. eFNS Account Creation: Begin by creating a login account on the eFNS Portal.
2. Portal Access: Use your newly created credentials to log into the eFNS portal.
3. Application Initiation: Once logged in, locate and click on the "Apply now" link.
4. Application Selection: Navigate to the "Submit New Applications" tab and choose the "Permit Issuance/Renewal" option.
5. Form Completion: Fill out the application form with accurate information.
6.  Invoice Generation: Upon form submission, an invoice will be generated. Access this by clicking on "Dashboard" followed by the "Payments" tab.
7. Payment Options:
   1. Online Payment: Utilize available online payment methods.
   2.  In-Person Payment: If online payment is not feasible, print your application form via the "Dashboard" and "My Applications" tab. Submit this form along with all required documents at the Immigration headquarters (Nyayo House) for payment and processing.
8. Application Tracking: The system will send automatic notifications via email and update your online account regarding the progress of your application.

The Department of Refugee Services (DRS) is a key governmental body in Kenya responsible for managing refugee affairs. Operating under the Ministry of Interior and Coordination of National Government, the DRS performs several important functions:

1. Protection and assistance coordination for refugees.
2. Processing and decision-making on asylum applications.
3. Issuance of identification cards for asylum seekers and refugees.

The DRS maintains offices in multiple locations across Kenya to serve the refugee population effectively:

1. Dadaab : Dadaab Refugee Complex
2. Eldoret: Located in the Public Works Building adjacent to immigration on Oloo Street.
3. Kakuma : Kakuma Refugee Camp
4. Mombasa : Situated opposite St. Mary's Academy in Bombolulu estate
5. Nairobi : Found on Ambira Road
6. Nakuru : Based in the Farming Systems of Kenya Building on Kabarak Road, Kiamunyi

These strategically placed offices ensure that refugee services are accessible throughout the country, facilitating the management and support of Kenya's refugee population.

eFNS Portal

Issuance of Kenya Entry Permits Checklist

Department of Refugee Services (DRS)