Kakuma Refugees Granted Free Access to Kenyan Work Permits
Kakuma, 1 August 2026
Recognised refugees in Kenya can now access free Class M work permits, securing legal employment and business rights while gaining permanent protection from deportation.
A Legal Gateway to Economic Freedom
Under the Refugee Act 2021 and the Kenya Citizenship and Immigration Act 2011, recognised refugees and their spouses in Kenya are legally entitled to engage in employment, trade, or business through a Class M work permit [3][4][5]. While foreign employees and investors face steep government fees—such as Class D permits costing between 200,000 and 500,000 KES per year, and Class G permits requiring a minimum 100,000 USD investment [5]—the Kenyan government issues Class M permits entirely free of charge [2][3]. Furthermore, these permits provide a vital human rights safeguard: according to Miriam Mugo, Lead Associate at CM Advocates LLP, holders are protected from deportation to countries where they face persecution under the principle of non-refoulement, even if they fail to renew the permit [3].
Navigating the Online Application Portal
To obtain this permit, applicants must complete their applications online via the Government of Kenya Single Sign-On portal (account.ecitizen.go.ke) and the eFNS portal (fns.immigration.go.ke) [4]. The application requires filling out and signing Form 25 online [2][4]. Once submitted, the applicant must print the forms and present them physically at the Immigration Headquarters at Nyayo House in Nairobi or at designated regional offices [4]. It is crucial that all documentation is complete upon submission, as the Department of Immigration Services will reject any incomplete files [4]. Applicants can monitor their status through automated progress updates sent via email and their online eFNS account [4].
Essential Documents for Your Application
When submitting an application for a Class M permit, specific documents must be uploaded and printed [1][2][4]. These include a signed cover letter addressed to the Director General of Immigration Services, two recent coloured passport-sized photos, a valid refugee ID or certificate, and a recommendation letter from the Department of Refugee Services (DRS) or UNHCR [1][2][4]. If the applicant is seeking employment, they must provide a letter from their intended employer, whereas self-employed individuals must provide business registration documents [1][2]. Additionally, any supporting documents written in foreign languages must be officially translated into English by an embassy, public notary, or an authorised institution before submission [3][4].
Registering a Business and Local Compliance
For refugees looking to establish their own enterprises in Kakuma, legal business registration is supported by UNHCR, the Refugee Consortium of Kenya (RCK), and the Norwegian Refugee Council’s Information, Counselling and Legal Assistance (NRC-ICLA) project [1][3]. To start this process, entrepreneurs need to provide three proposed business names, a copy of their refugee ID, a Kenya Revenue Authority (KRA) PIN, and details regarding the company’s directors and location [1]. Following business registration, owners must acquire local business permits from county revenue authorities, which can be done at the Biashara Center in Kabogorit, Kakuma [1]. Food service establishments also require specific health permits and clearance certificates for their workers to ensure hygiene compliance [1].
Community Groups and Financial Inclusion
Refugees also have the opportunity to register Community-Based Organisations (CBOs) or Self-Help Groups (SHGs) to foster community-led development [1]. This registration is facilitated by the Social Development Officer at the DCC compound in Kakuma or based in Lodwar [1][3]. To fuel these economic activities, several financial institutions in Kakuma offer credit and loan facilities [1]. Refugees can access banking services at Equity Bank, located next to the LWF Compound, or KCB Bank in Kakuma town [1]. Additionally, affordable financial services and microfinance options are provided by INKOMOKO, Kenya Bankers Sacco, and RAFODE, all located along the route to the Kakuma Airstrip [1].