Class D Work Permit: Overview for Nigerians ₦2,637,978
The Class D Work Permit is one of the main routes Nigerians use to relocate to Kenya. This overview covers the verified 2026 fees, processing time, and the documents you need to apply. All figures are pulled from our verified relocation database — no estimates.
Class D Work Permit fees — verified breakdown
| Fee | Amount |
|---|---|
| Visa application fee | ₦2,637,978 (~$1,931 USD) |
| Proof of funds (your own savings)Not required | ₦0 (~$0 USD) |
| Health surcharge | ₦0 (~$0 USD) |
| Language test (IELTS/TEF) | ₦0 (~$0 USD) |
| Credential evaluation | ₦0 (~$0 USD) |
| Total government fees | ₦2,637,978 (~$1,931 USD) |
Verified against official immigration authority schedule. Exchange rates as of 21 June 2026. Proof of funds is your own money — you do not pay it to the government.
What each fee covers
The ₦2,637,978 total is made up of several distinct charges. Here is what you are actually paying for:
- Visa application fee — ₦2,637,978: Paid to the Kenya immigration authority when you submit your application. Non-refundable regardless of the outcome.
Processing timeline
Total processing time: 4–12 weeks
- 1
Confirm eligibility
Check that you meet the Class D Work Permit requirements before paying any fees.
- 2
Prepare documents
Passport, qualification certificates.
- 3
Pay fees
Pay ₦2,637,978 in government fees.
- 4
Submit application
Submit online or through the relevant embassy.
- 5
Wait for decision
Processing time: 4–12 weeks.
Expert tip
Class D Work Permit
The Class D Work Permit is employer-sponsored and costs KES 250,000–500,000/year ($1,700–$3,400) depending on the category. Your employer handles the application through the eFNS portal. Processing takes 4–12 weeks and can be unpredictable. Kenya has a strong 'Kenyanization' policy — employers must demonstrate they could not find a qualified Kenyan for the role. This is strictly enforced for mid-level positions but more flexible for senior/specialized roles in tech, finance, and NGOs. Major employers of foreign workers include Safaricom, Equity Bank, UN agencies (UNEP and UN-Habitat are headquartered in Nairobi), international NGOs, and tech companies. The permit is valid for 1–3 years depending on your contract.
Where Nigerians settle in Kenya
Once your Class D Work Permit is approved, most Nigerians head to Nairobi or Mombasa. Here is what to budget for your first year:
- Nairobi: 1-bedroom rent ₦585,737/month · Lagos–Nairobi flights from ~$500 · Nigerian community: Small-Growing
- Mombasa: 1-bedroom rent ₦233,197/month · Lagos–Mombasa flights from ~$550 · Nigerian community: Small
Life in Nairobi
Nairobi is Africa's undisputed tech capital. A 1-bed apartment in good neighborhoods (Westlands, Kilimani, Lavington) costs $427–700/month, dropping to $200–350 in areas like South B, South C, or Langata. The city has excellent coworking infrastructure — iHub, Nairobi Garage, and Kofisi are world-class. Fiber internet (Safaricom Home, Zuku) runs 50–100Mbps for $30–50/month. M-Pesa mobile money is king — everything from rent to groceries can be paid via phone. A single person needs $1,000–1,500/month for comfortable living. The Nigerian community is small but growing, especially in tech and business circles. Nairobi traffic is legendary — live close to where you work or work remotely. Uber and Bolt are widely available. Safety varies by neighborhood — Westlands and Kilimani are safe; avoid walking alone at night in unfamiliar areas.
1% of Nigerians who use Japa Calculator choose Kenya as their destination. Average Japa Score: 50/100. Most common salary expectation among applicants: ₦300K–₦1M.
Frequently Asked Questions
- How much does the Class D Work Permit cost for Nigerians moving to Kenya?
- Total government fees for the Class D Work Permit are ₦2,637,978 (about $1,931). This covers the visa application fee, and any other applicable government charges.
- How long does Class D Work Permit processing take from Nigeria?
- Processing time for the Class D Work Permit is 4–12 weeks. Apply from the Kenya High Commission in Abuja or the Consulate in Lagos — book your appointment slot as early as possible, as backlogs frequently add 2–4 weeks beyond the official window.
- What documents do I need to apply for the Class D Work Permit from Nigeria?
- You will need a valid Nigerian international passport (at least 6 months validity beyond your intended travel date), completed application form, recent passport photographs, and supporting evidence of eligibility.
- Where do most Nigerians settle after relocating to Kenya?
- Nairobi is the most popular destination for Nigerians relocating to Kenya. Average 1-bedroom rent is ₦585,737 per month. The Nigerian community in Nairobi is smaller but active; diaspora associations and online groups help new arrivals settle quickly.
Related guides
Sibling variants of this visa route and other ways into Kenya.
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Start Free CalculatorData methodology: Visa fees sourced from official immigration authority schedules. Naira conversions use live exchange rates from open.er-api.com (last updated 21 June 2026). All fees are subject to change with policy updates — verify with the official immigration website before applying. Last verified: 2026-06-03