Class C Work Permit

Kenya • Immigration Consulting

Overview

The Kenya Class C Work Permit is issued to members of a prescribed profession who wish to practise that profession, either independently or in partnership, in Kenya. It is the specific work authorisation for qualified professionals whose disciplines are formally recognised under the Eighth Schedule of the Kenya Citizenship and Immigration Regulations, 2012.

Prescribed professions under Kenyan law include: Medicine, Dentistry, Law, Surveying, Estate Agency, Valuation, Architecture, Quantity Surveying, Pharmacy, Veterinary Surgery, Engineering, Nursing, Physiotherapy, Accountancy, Chartered Secretarial work, Actuarial Science, Science, and Information and Communication Technology (ICT).

New World Immigration, in partnership with our licensed Kenyan law firm, manages the complete Class C permit application, from confirming your professional registration through to permit issuance and future renewals.

Who is this permit for?

The Class C Work Permit is for qualified foreign professionals in a prescribed discipline who wish to practise their profession in Kenya.

Application process

1. Professional Eligibility Review

We confirm that your profession is listed under the Eighth Schedule, verify that your qualifications meet the prescribed standard, and assess your professional registration status.

2. Document Preparation

We compile the full application package including certified academic and professional certificates, CV, proof of professional membership, police clearance, and a detailed cover letter.

3. Professional Registration Guidance

Where required, our Kenyan law firm can advise on the process for obtaining recognition or registration from the relevant Kenyan professional body prior to or alongside the permit application.

4. Application Submission

The application is submitted to the Department of Immigration Services. Our Kenyan law firm files directly and provides a formal submission acknowledgment.

5. Liaison & Progress Monitoring

We monitor the application, respond to any queries from the Department, and provide regular status updates throughout the processing period.

6. Permit Issuance

Upon approval, the Class C permit is endorsed in your passport or a permit card is issued. We coordinate collection and advise on commencement of practice.

7. Renewal Management

We manage permit renewals in advance of expiry. Renewals require a current KRA tax compliance certificate and evidence of continued professional registration.

Key considerations

Costs

Government fees are set by the Department of Immigration Services under the Kenya Citizenship and Immigration Regulations.

Government fee schedules are subject to change. A confirmed fee schedule and full cost breakdown will be provided before any commitment.

Processing timeframes

Processing times from submission of a complete application to the Department of Immigration Services.

Frequently asked questions

Which professions qualify for a Class C Work Permit?

The prescribed professions under the Eighth Schedule include: Medicine, Dentistry, Law, Surveying, Estate Agency, Valuation, Architecture, Quantity Surveying, Pharmacy, Veterinary Surgery, Engineering, Nursing, Physiotherapy, Accountancy, Chartered Secretarial, Actuarial Science, Science, and Information and Communication Technology (ICT). Contact us to confirm whether your specific discipline qualifies.

Do I need to be registered with a Kenyan professional body?

You must be registered with the professional body for your profession in your home country. Some Kenyan regulatory bodies additionally require foreign professionals to register locally before practising. We advise on the specific requirements for your profession.

Can I practise independently or do I need to join a firm?

The Class C permit allows you to practise your profession either independently or in partnership. You are not required to be employed by an existing firm, you may establish your own practice.

What if my profession is not on the Eighth Schedule?

If your profession is not listed as a prescribed profession, the Class G Work Permit (specific trade, business, or consultancy) may be the appropriate pathway. Contact us and we will identify the correct permit class for your situation.

Can my family join me in Kenya?

Yes. Your spouse and dependent children under 21 can apply for Dependent Passes, allowing them to reside in Kenya for the duration of your Class C permit.

What is required at renewal?

At renewal, you will need to provide a current KRA tax compliance certificate and evidence of continued professional registration. We manage the renewal process proactively to ensure uninterrupted authorisation.

Get expert help

Kenya's growing economy creates strong demand for qualified professionals across medicine, engineering, technology, law, finance, and many other fields, and the Class C Work Permit is the dedicated pathway for internationally qualified practitioners.

NWI and our licensed Kenyan law firm manage the full process, ensuring your professional credentials are properly presented and your application is handled to the highest standard.