Business / Self-employed / Investor Long-stay Visa
Category: Business · Processing time: 3-9 months (business approval + visa)
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Apply through official authority
Department of Immigration Services
Always submit applications through the official source. Last verified 2026-05-07.
Visa type
Business
Processing time
3-9 months (business approval + visa)
Fees
GovernmentFee: Confirm on official portal
Validity
Confirm on official source
Stay duration
Confirm on official source
Entry type
Confirm single/multiple entry rules
Insurance
Confirm if required
Bookmark
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Overview
Long-stay permit for entrepreneurs starting a business, self-employed professionals, and investors meeting capital or job-creation thresholds.
- Leads to permanent residency: Yes
- Requires job offer: No
- Language required: No
- Minimum education: Not specified
Estimated Costs
- - GovernmentFee: Confirm on official portal
- - CapitalThreshold: Many countries require minimum investment or assets
- - BusinessRegistration: Local company registration and tax fees
Required Documents
- - Detailed business plan
- - Proof of capital / investment funds
- - Source-of-funds documentation
- - Endorsement / approval letter from authorised body (where required)
- - Valid passport and biometrics
- - Police clearance and medical (where required)
- - Tax records / financial statements (for established businesses)
Application Steps
- Confirm which business / investor visa pathway applies to you
- Secure endorsement or programme approval where required
- Prepare business plan, source-of-funds, and capital evidence
- Apply on the official portal and pay government fees
- Submit biometrics and supporting documents
- Attend interview if required
- On approval, register the business locally and meet ongoing reporting
Always confirm the latest steps and forms on the official portal: Department of Immigration Services →
Travel Insurance Requirement
- Mandatory: Confirm with official source
- Minimum coverage: Confirm current coverage rules
- Valid regions: Confirm accepted regions
- Approved providers: Use providers accepted by the official authority
Embassy, Consulate & Appointments
Embassy, consulate, jurisdiction, and appointment details vary by applicant location. Confirm the correct office before booking travel or paying fees.
Open appointment or official portal →Browse foreign embassies in Kenya (MigrantIQ directory) →
Directory listings are for planning only — not legal advice. Confirm jurisdiction and appointment rules on the official portal.
Application checklist
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Benefits & What This Visa Allows
- - Live in the destination while running your business
- - Often allows family members to accompany you
- - Pathway to permanent residency on meeting milestones
- - Some destinations exempt qualifying applicants from labour-market tests
Trust & safety
Before you pay or submit documents
Use the official portal for applications and payments. Be careful with agents who guarantee approval, ask for personal-account transfers, or pressure you to send originals before a written contract.
Relevant laws
- Work Authorisation Rules
Employment · Severity: Critical
In Kenya, obtaining the right work authorization is essential for anyone looking to engage in employment activities. A visa that permits entry into the country does not automatically grant the holder the right to work.…
- Immigration Status and Overstay Rules
Immigration · Severity: Critical
In Kenya, your right to remain in the country is determined by the type of visa, residence permit, entry stamp, or visa-free allowance you possess. You should understand that holding a pending application, job offer,…
- Tax Residency and Income Reporting
Tax · Severity: High
Tax residency in Kenya is determined by the duration of your stay and your income sources. If you live in Kenya for at least 183 days in a year or have a permanent home in the country, you are considered a tax…
Active scam alerts
In Kenya, some agents exploit newcomers by charging excessive fees for essential services like document translation, notarisation, and obtaining an apostille. This scam primarily targets visa applicants, families,…
In Kenya, a common scam targets tourists, first-time travelers, workers, and students. Scammers impersonate airport staff, immigration officers, or travel agents, claiming that you must pay a special fee to enter the…
In Kenya, a growing number of students and their parents are falling victim to scams involving fake university admissions and scholarship offers. Fraudsters often pose as unofficial agents, claiming to provide…
Scammers are increasingly targeting newcomers in Kenya with rental scams that involve requesting a deposit before any viewing or signing of a contract. Typically, scammers advertise fake apartments on various online…
Quick Eligibility Check
Use this self-check for Business / Investor Visa. It does not replace official legal assessment.
Common Rejection Reasons
- - Incomplete or inconsistent documents
- - Insufficient financial evidence
- - Unclear purpose of visit or weak ties to home country
- - Missing translations, signatures, appointment confirmations, or required forms
Application Tips
- - Start with the official checklist before paying any third party.
- - Keep bank statements, employment letters, travel plans, and accommodation details consistent.
- - Book appointments early and keep copies of every submitted form, receipt, and confirmation.
- - Do not use agents who guarantee approval or request payment to personal accounts.
Sources & References
Use these references for verification. Official government and appointment portals override summary guidance on MigrantIQ.
- Department of Immigration Services
Official source for forms, appointments, fees, and final requirements.
- MigrantIQ visa record
Summary record maintained for planning and source verification.
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Frequently Asked Questions
This visa is designed for applicants matching Business pathway criteria.
Typical processing time is 3-9 months (business approval + visa), subject to documentation quality and application volume.
Start with eligibility evidence, document checklists, and proof of funds before submitting.