Any person or entity operating a hotel in Kenya must hold a valid Hotel Licence issued by the Tourism Regulatory Authority (TRA). Hotels fall under Class “A” tourism enterprises, which also includes villas, homestays, game lodges, eco-lodges, tented camps, and other accommodation facilities. The licence is issued under the Tourism Act, 2011, and the TRA (Tourism Enterprises) Regulations, 2024, which replaced the 2014 regulations.
Hotel licence fees are tiered based on bed capacity and the minimum room rate charged per night. All Class “A” licences carry a one-time application fee of KES 1,000, with annual fees determined by the size and category of the establishment.
Hotel Licence Fees (TRA — Tourism Enterprises Regulations, 2024)
| Hotel Category (Bed Capacity / Rate) | Application Fee (KES) | Annual Licence Fee (KES) |
|---|---|---|
| 1–10 beds; room rate ≤ KES 1,500/night | 1,000 | 9,000 |
| 1–10 beds; room rate > KES 1,500/night | 1,000 | 13,000 |
| 11–40 beds; room rate ≤ KES 1,500/night | 1,000 | 16,500 |
| 11–40 beds; room rate > KES 1,500/night | 1,000 | 24,000 |
| 41–80 beds; with function room | 1,000 | 31,500 |
| 81–120 beds; with 3 restaurants/bar/pool | 1,000 | 39,000 |
| 121–160 beds; with banqueting/sports | 1,000 | 46,000 |
| 161–200 beds; with health club | 1,000 | 53,500 |
| 201–300 beds; with casino | 1,000 | 61,000 |
| 301+ beds; with golf or racecourse | 1,000 | 68,500 |
How to Apply
Applications are submitted through the TRA TRIMS online licensing portal at trims.tourismauthority.go.ke. Required documents include ID/passport, KRA PIN, certificate of incorporation (for companies), lease agreement or proof of property ownership, and entry permits for non-citizen directors. Licences expire on 31 December each year. Late renewals attract a 10% penalty per month of delay.
Contact: Tourism Regulatory Authority, Upper Hill, Nairobi | tra.go.ke | Tel: 0709 389 000
