Hotel Licence Fees / Charges, Kenya

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

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