Discover if you meet the requirements for Kenya's new digital nomad visa and learn how to apply.

Discover if you meet the requirements for Kenya's new digital nomad visa and learn how to apply.
Discover if you meet the requirements for Kenya's new digital nomad visa and learn how to apply.

If you're a digital nomad or can work from anywhere and want to add Africa to your travel destinations, Kenya could be a great option to consider.

At the Magical Kenya Travel Expo on October 2, President William Ruto unveiled Kenya's Digital Nomad Work Permit.

The president stated that the visa is intended to attract global digital professionals, providing them with the opportunity to reside and work in Kenya while experiencing its stunning natural scenery and superior lifestyle, as reported by Nation.

The Digital Nomad Work Permit is a component of Kenya's plan to boost foreign investment, job opportunities, and tourism among remote workers.

In 2023, the country welcomed over 1.9 million visitors, which was a 70% increase from the previous year's 1,483,752 visitors, and a 127% increase from the 2021 visitor count of 870,465 people, according to Statista.

Dr. Ruto stated that the objective is to transform Kenya into a top tourist destination and draw in 5 million visitors yearly by 2027.

In order to qualify for Kenya's digital nomad visa, candidates must possess the following requirements.

  • a valid passport
  • proof of remote work outside of Kenya
  • proof of accommodation within Kenya
  • a clean criminal record

Euronews reports that the minimum annual income requirement for the visa is approximately $53,922. However, the details about when the work permit will be available, its duration, and the total cost are still uncertain.

Interested applicants can check Kenya's Directorate of Immigration Services website for updates.

Kenya is not the only African country with a digital nomad visa. Other countries on the continent, including Mauritius, Cape Verde, Seychelles, and Namibia, also have similar initiatives.

The Kenyan government has announced a new visa-free policy that allows foreign nationals to enter the country for tourism or business for stays up to 90 days. As part of this policy, President Ruto has introduced the Transit and Long Connection Travelers Electronic Travel Authorization (eTA), which enables travelers with long layovers at Jomo Kenyatta International Airport in Nairobi to explore Kenya instead of waiting in the airport's terminals.

The aim of the eTA, as stated by Dr. Ruto, is to boost tourism among travelers visiting Kenya.

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by Celia Fernandez

Make It