Kenya

About This Program

Investment Options

Key Benefits

• Access to East Africa's largest and most dynamic economy
• Nairobi is the regional headquarters for hundreds of multinational corporations and international organizations
• World-class wildlife and natural beauty within easy reach of the capital
• Strong English-speaking workforce and established legal system
• Growing tech ecosystem with Nairobi known as Silicon Savannah
• East African Community membership providing access to a market of over 300 million people

Requirements

• Minimum investment of $100,000 in a qualifying business venture
• Valid passport with at least six months remaining validity
• Detailed business plan demonstrating viability and benefit to the Kenyan economy
• Clean criminal record and security clearance
• Application submitted to the Department of Immigration Services

Lifestyle & Living

Nairobi is a city of contrasts and energy, combining the bustle of a major African capital with easy access to some of the world's most spectacular wildlife and landscapes. The city has a sophisticated dining scene, from carnivore restaurants to fine Ethiopian and Asian cuisine, and a vibrant cultural calendar of music, art, and film events. Neighborhoods like Karen, Lavington, and Runda offer leafy, spacious living with modern amenities, while Westlands and Kilimani provide urban convenience with restaurants, shopping malls, and nightlife. The climate is remarkably pleasant, sitting at 1,700 meters altitude with temperatures typically between 15 and 26 degrees Celsius and none of the extreme heat of lowland tropical cities. Weekend escapes include the Maasai Mara, Lake Naivasha, and the Rift Valley, all within a few hours' drive. The Kenya coast, centered on Mombasa and Diani Beach, offers Indian Ocean beach living with a distinct Swahili cultural influence. International schools such as the International School of Kenya and Brookhouse School are well regarded, and the expatriate community is large and well established.

Tax Benefits

Kenya's personal income tax is progressive, reaching a maximum of 35% on income exceeding KES 800,000 per month. Corporate tax is 30% for resident companies and 37.5% for permanent establishments of non-resident companies. However, Kenya offers several incentives for investors. Companies in Export Processing Zones (EPZs) enjoy a ten-year corporate tax holiday followed by a 25% rate for the next ten years. Special Economic Zone (SEZ) enterprises benefit from reduced corporate tax rates of 10% for the first ten years and 15% thereafter. Capital gains tax is levied at 15% on the transfer of property. Kenya has an extensive double taxation treaty network covering major economies including the UK, Germany, France, India, and South Africa. The Kenya Revenue Authority has modernized significantly, with online filing and payment systems. For East African operations, Kenya's membership in the EAC means goods and services can move across member states with reduced or eliminated tariffs under the common market protocol.