Relocating to a new country is a monumental task, and Kenya is no exception. Between securing the right paperwork, shipping your belongings, and understanding a new culture, the process can feel overwhelming. This checklist breaks down everything you need to do—before you leave, on arrival, and in your first month—to ensure a smooth and successful transition.
Before You Move: Pre-Departure Essentials
The groundwork for a successful move is laid long before you board the plane. Getting your paperwork, finances, and expectations in order beforehand will save you significant stress later.
1. Secure Your Entry Documents
Kenya’s immigration landscape has recently seen significant changes, with new permit categories introduced in late 2024 and early 2025 . Understanding your status is the first critical step.
- eTA (Electronic Travel Authorization): Most foreign visitors now require an eTA, which replaced the traditional visa. Apply online at the official portal at least three days before travel . The eTA is valid for a single entry and permits a stay determined by immigration officers upon arrival .
- Work Permits: For long-term employment, a work permit is essential. Common classes include:
- Class D: For employees recruited by a specific Kenyan company. The employer must demonstrate that the position cannot be filled locally .
- Class G: For investors and entrepreneurs starting a business in Kenya, often requiring a minimum investment of around $100,000 .
- Class N (Digital Nomad): Introduced for remote workers and freelancers. Requires proof of an assured annual income of USD 24,000 from outside Kenya and a commitment not to work for Kenyan clients .
- Class R (EAC Citizens): A new permit specifically for East African Community (EAC) citizens, with processing and issuance fees waived .
- Permanent Residence: Available to those who have lived in Kenya for at least seven years on valid permits and can demonstrate good conduct and contribution to the country .
Application Tip: Work permit processing can take anywhere from 2 to 6 months . Start the process well in advance of your intended start date.
2. Financial and Legal Preparations
- Obtain a KRA PIN: You will need a Kenya Revenue Authority PIN for almost everything—from opening a bank account to renting a property .
- Open a Kenyan Bank Account: Most transactions, including rent and salary deposits, happen locally. Having an account set up early simplifies your financial life .
- Understand Your Tax Obligations: Determine your Kenyan tax residency status. If you spend more than 183 days in Kenya in a year, you may be considered a tax resident .
- Check Double Taxation Agreements (DTAs): If your home country has a DTA with Kenya, you may be able to avoid being taxed twice on the same income .
3. Healthcare and Medical Preparations
- Vaccinations: No mandatory vaccinations for direct entry from most countries, but Hepatitis A and polio are recommended . A yellow fever certificate is required if traveling from a risk area .
- Malaria Risk: Malaria is a significant risk below 2,500 meters. Central Nairobi is considered malaria-free, but prophylaxis is recommended for most other regions .
- Health Insurance: Secure comprehensive international health insurance that covers medical evacuation. While Nairobi has good private facilities, care outside the capital is limited .
4. Practical Planning
- Packing: Pack lightweight, breathable clothing for the warm climate, but include layers for cooler Nairobi evenings. Don’t forget sunscreen, insect repellent, and a first-aid kit .
- Moving with Pets: Relocating pets requires an import permit, proof of up-to-date vaccinations, and a recent health certificate. Document accuracy is more critical than speed .
- Budgeting: Create a detailed relocation budget covering housing, healthcare, schooling, and daily living costs. Factor in “hidden” costs like visa renewals and security deposits .
On the Move: Arrival and First Days
Your first week in Kenya is a whirlwind of orientation and essential tasks. A “street-smart” approach will serve you well.
1. At the Airport and First Day
- Get Connected: Obtain a local SIM card (Safaricom or Airtel) immediately upon arrival. This is essential for ride-hailing apps like Uber and Bolt, navigation, and local communication .
- Use Trusted Transport: Avoid unvetted taxis at the airport. Use a ride-hailing app or pre-arranged transport for safety and transparent pricing.
- Choose Your Home Wisely: Your choice of neighborhood is one of the most important security decisions you’ll make. Traditionally expatriate-friendly areas include Gigiri (UN/embassy zone), Karen (leafy and secure), Runda (planned estate), and Kileleshwa/Lavington .
2. The Move-In Inspection: Protect Your Deposit
Many tenants skip this, but it is the single most important thing you can do on moving day to protect your deposit.
- Before You Unpack: Before a single item of furniture crosses the threshold, document the condition of the entire property .
- How to Document: Use your phone to take both photos and video of every room, wall, ceiling, floor, fixture, and appliance. Narrate the video to note specific issues .
- Create a Timestamped Record: Send a detailed list of issues (with photos) to your landlord or caretaker via WhatsApp or email on the same day. This creates a permanent, time-stamped record that both parties have acknowledged. Without it, you could lose KES 20,000 to 50,000 in end-of-tenancy charges .
3. Utilities and Paperwork
- Electricity: Read and photograph the token meter to establish your starting balance. Purchase a small token to confirm the meter works. Arrange for the meter to be transferred to your name with Kenya Power .
- Water: Confirm the water schedule and run all taps to check pressure. Photograph the water meter reading.
- Register Your SIM Card: Formal registration is required for all SIM cards in Kenya.
- Obtain Your KRA PIN: This is needed for everything from opening a bank account to signing a lease .
Settling In: The First Month
With the initial chaos subsiding, the next phase is about building your life and routine.
1. Finalize Your Administrative Setup
- Open Your Bank Account: Visit a branch to activate your account and start managing local finances.
- Set Up Internet: Schedule your home internet installation at least a week in advance, as activation can take days .
- Register with Immigration: If staying long-term, foreign nationals staying more than 90 days must register with immigration .
2. Health and Safety
- Familiarize Yourself with Clinics: Know the location and contact details of nearby private hospitals and clinics in your area.
- Practice Common-Sense Safety: Avoid isolated areas at night. Keep your phone and valuables secure in crowded places. Confidence and awareness are your best defenses on the street.
3. Building Your Network
- Attend Social and Professional Events: Join expat and community groups. Kenya is a profoundly relationship-driven society; “knowing someone who knows someone” is a key part of navigating both social and professional life.
- Learn Basic Swahili: Make an effort with the local language. A simple “Habari” (hello) or “Asante sana” (thank you very much) changes the dynamic of an encounter immediately.
4. Domestic Help and Routine
- Hiring Help: If you choose to hire domestic staff (e.g., a housekeeper or gardener), it’s wise to work through a reputable agency or a trusted referral to ensure fair and legal arrangements.
- Explore Your Neighborhood: Find local shops, markets, and parks. This will help the area feel more like home .
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