New Rules for EAC Foreigners (like Burundi) Running Small Businesses in Kenya
2 min read
Foreign nationals from East African Community (EAC) countries who want to run small businesses in Kenya are required to regularise their stay in the country.
Under the current immigration rules, EAC citizens can apply for a Class R permit, which is meant for nationals of EAC member states.
The countries covered include Uganda, Tanzania, Rwanda, Burundi, South Sudan, the Democratic Republic of Congo (DRC) and Somalia.
How to apply for the Class R permit
The application is made online through the eFNS portal on eCitizen.
The Class R permit does not have a processing or issuance fee, meaning applicants do not pay for the permit itself.
However, foreign nationals are still required to comply with other immigration requirements, including Alien Registration, commonly known as the Foreign National Certificate.
Documents required
Applicants may be required to provide documents such as:
- A valid passport
- A cover letter explaining their business or activities in Kenya
- A KRA PIN where applicable
- A police clearance certificate where required
Although the application begins online, applicants may also be required to print the relevant forms and submit them physically to immigration offices, including those at Nyayo House in Nairobi.
The permit helps EAC citizens regularise their stay while working or operating businesses in Kenya, in line with the EAC framework on free movement of people and the right to engage in economic activities.
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