A Class I Work Permit is issued in Kenya to foreign nationals who are members of institutions registered under the Societies Act and who are actively engaged as missionaries — specifically, directly involved in preaching or conducting religious worship and rituals. Following gazette amendments in late 2024, the Class I permit was narrowed exclusively to religious activities; charitable or non-profit workers who are not directly engaged in preaching now fall under the new Class Q Work Permit category.
Class I Work Permit Fee Summary Table
| Fee Type | Amount | Notes |
|---|---|---|
| Processing fee (non-refundable) | KES 5,000 | Lower than most other classes |
| Annual issuance fee | KES 20,000 per year | Reduced from KES 50,000 in 2024 amendments |
| Appeals reprocessing fee | KES 20,000 | On rejected application appeal |
| Financial security | KES 100,000 | Required post-approval |
The Class I processing fee was revised from KES 1,000 to KES 5,000 effective March 2024. The annual issuance fee was subsequently reduced to KES 20,000 under the December 2024 amendments, down from the KES 50,000 set in March 2024.
Key Requirements
Applicants must provide a letter from their registered religious institution confirming active engagement in preaching or religious worship, evidence of the institution’s registration under the Societies Act, a valid passport, and proof of their missionary qualification or appointment. The permit is processed and the issuance fee is payable annually.
