As digital nomads grow in popularity, more professionals seek destinations combining adventure, rich culture, and reliable connectivity. As digital nomads directly impact the growth of countries’ economies, governments are scrambling to attract them, and one strategy is to introduce digital nomad visas.

Digital nomad visas are temporary permits that allow remote workers to live and work in a foreign country. Like many emerging countries, Kenya has a unique digital nomad visa, which President William Ruto announced on 2 October 2024 during a magical Kenya travel expo.

Benefits of Kenya’s Digital Nomad Visa

The Kenya’s digital nomads visa offers several unique advantages for digital nomads:

• No local employer required: Unlike other work permits, Kenya’s Digital Nomad visa allows remote workers to live and work in Kenya without needing a local employer to sponsor them.
• Pathway to long-term residency: The permit can lead to long-term residency and, eventually, citizenship, making it an attractive option for digital nomads looking for a more permanent home base in Kenya.
• Access to Kenya’s growing economy: As Kenya strengthens its position as a hub for digital innovation, remote workers will have the opportunity to tap into the country’s expanding tech ecosystem and connect with other professionals.
• Explore Kenya’s natural beauty: Besides work opportunities, the permit allows digital nomads to immerse themselves in Kenya’s breathtaking landscapes, from safaris in the Maasai Mara to the coastal beaches of Mombasa and Diani.

Related: A comprehensive guide to different types of visas.

Requirements for Kenya’s Digital Nomad VisaTo be eligible for Kenya’s Digital Nomad Visa, applicants must meet the following four criteria:

• Valid passport: Applicants must present a valid passport at the time of application.
• Proof of remote work: Applicants must provide documentation demonstrating their employment with a non-Kenyan company and their remote work arrangement.
• Minimum annual income: Applicants must demonstrate an annual income of at least $55,000 from sources outside Kenya.
• Proof of accommodation: Applicants must show evidence of secured housing in Kenya.
• Clean criminal record: Applicants must present a clean criminal background check from their country of residence.

Related: A list of 40+ countries offering digital nomad visas.

Application process

Here’s a step-by-step guide to applying for the Kenya’s digital nomad visa:

• Gather required documents: You must collect your passport, proof of employment, income documents, health insurance, and police clearance.
• Apply: Complete the digital nomad visa application form. You can find it on the Kenya Foreign Nationals Service Portal or request it from a consulate.
• Pay the application fee: The processing fee is $30, payable online at the time of application.
• Wait for approval: After submitting your application, processing should take two to three months.

Related: Top 5 underrated digital nomad visa destinations.

Kenya is a top destination for digital nomads, offering adventure, affordability, and work-life balance. You can legally live and work there with a new digital nomad visa. Make sure you’re prepared by opening a Grey foreign account to handle international payments seamlessly. Convert your earnings to local currency easily, spend like a local, and enjoy your stay in Kenya!