How to Obtain Work Permit Class A (Prospecting and Mining)
What is a Class A Work Permit?
The Class A work permit is issued to foreign nationals who intend to engage, either alone or in partnership, in prospecting for minerals or mining operations in Kenya. It is regulated under the Kenya Citizenship and Immigration Act and ensures that mineral exploration activities comply with both immigration laws and the Mining Act.
Who Qualifies?
- Foreign investors, geologists, and mining entrepreneurs intending to undertake mineral prospecting or mining business in Kenya.
- Applicants who possess lawful mining rights, licenses, or prospecting permits issued by the Ministry of Mining.
Requirements & Documents Required
- Duly filled and signed Form 25.
- Signed cover letter addressed to the Director-General of Immigration Services.
- Copy of the applicant’s valid passport (bio-data page) and current immigration status.
- Recent passport-sized color photographs.
- Valid Tax Compliance Certificate (TCC) for the company and individual.
- Certified copies of academic and professional certificates, plus a detailed CV.
- Valid prospecting/mining rights, licenses, and registrations from the Ministry of Mining.
- Proof of investment capital (minimum thresholds as required by mining regulations).
- Certificate of incorporation and CR12 of the local operating entity.
Government Fees
- Processing Fee (Non-refundable): KES 20,000 (~USD 155)
- Annual Issuance Fee: KES 500,000 per year (~USD 3,850)
Timelines
Initial processing typically takes 3 to 5 months from the date of online submission and biometric capture.
End-to-End Firm Assistance
As a premier law firm in Nairobi, we provide comprehensive end-to-end support—from obtaining mining licenses and structuring corporate compliance to eFNS portal filing, document certification, and securing your Class A permit.
