From the metropolitan capital of Nairobi to the beautiful white sandy beaches along the Mombasa coast, Kenya has it all. And as an expat living in Kenya, you can expect to enjoy all this and much more.
Kenya is one of the world's leading safari destinations, one of the cheapest countries in Africa in terms of cost of living, and is consistently ranked as one of the best countries in Africa to become an expat. Here we provide an insight into what it's like to live in Kenya, and offer a handy guide for expats planning to move to Kenya in 2023.
What to expect from living in Kenya as an expat
Kenya is a friendly and welcoming country in East Africa that has become a hot-spot for expats from around the world. While they may come for the warm climate, sandy beaches and cosmopolitan culture (especially in the capital Nairobi), many find themselves staying for other things - the fresh food and vibrant atmosphere, to name just a couple. If you're also thinking of moving to Kenya, you won't find a shortage of fun, adventure and tranquillity in this rapidly modernising country.
However, moving to Kenya is not without its challenges. While Kenya is generally stable politically, rising unemployment, high crime rates and inconsistent provision of utilities mean that living in Kenya can often be difficult, even for the most experienced expats.
What is it like to live in Kenya as an expat?
With a population of 55 million people, Kenya is among the 30 largest countries in the world. 4.4 million Kenyans live in the bustling capital city of Nairobi, which is a trade and financial hub for the whole of East Africa, and the headquarters of many international businesses. A further 1.2 million live in the coastal city and former capital, Mombasa, which is rich in colonial architecture and attracts large numbers of tourists each year.
As a former part of British East Africa, the Republic of Kenya gained its independence in 1963 and has since made a name for itself internationally as a key exporter of the world's tea, coffee and flowers.
How to become an expat in Kenya?
Foreigners considering staying in Kenya for more than 3 months must have a visa before entering the country. The easiest way to apply is online, via the electronic Foreign National Service (eFNS). You will then need to create an eCitizen account to apply for a suitable visa.
How many expats live in Kenya?
Estimates suggest that there are 100,000 European expats living in Kenya. This is a small number compared to the country's large population. However, a recent survey ranked Nairobi 9th in the world for making expats feel welcome in their new country. The capital came 4th globally for helping expats "settle in" and 4th again for its friendliness and socialising
Jobs, visas and working in Kenya
To work in Kenya, you need to apply for an appropriate visa. The process can take up to 3 months. Once expats have created an eCitizen account, they usually apply for one of the following permits:
Class C - only available to expats working in 'prescribed professions', e.g. medicine, engineering, accounting
Class D - covers expats moving to Kenya for a specific job with a single employer
Class G - is for expats who want to start a business in Kenya or invest in a trade
Cost of living when moving to Kenya
The cost of living in Kenya is one of the main attractions for expats. Ranked as the 145th most expensive city out of 209, Nairobi is more affordable than other major cities on the continent, including Cairo (137th) and Doha (130th) and around the world.
Banking and finance in Kenya
Expats should find it easy to open a bank account in Kenya, especially in Nairobi, the largest financial centre in East Africa. However, you may have to wait until you've packed your things and flown over, as you'll need to provide proof of a Kenyan address. You'll also need proof of ID and a reference from an employer.
If you've signed the paperwork for a home in Kenya and have secured a job there too, you may be able to start an application for a bank account online.
Banks have different application processes, but most will ask you to visit them in branch to finalise your account setup.
Bank branches typically open from 9am-3pm, Monday-Friday, and close at noon on Saturdays, closed on Sundays. Some of the largest banks in Kenya include:
NCBA
i&m Bank
Absa Bank Kenya
Standard Chartered Kenya
Co-operative Bank of Kenya
KCB Bank Kenya
Healthcare and insurance in Kenya
Life expectancy in Kenya is disappointingly low at 67 years old, ranking 151st in the World Bank's global rankings. Maternal and infant mortality rates are high, and statistics show that in 2019 almost 53 people per 100,000 died from unsafe water sources. The good news is that the statistics are on a downward curve.
While there is a shortage of doctors in the country, most expats avoid the public healthcare system and use private clinics and hospitals, where hygiene standards are higher and treatment is paid for by health insurance.
If you are ever in a medical emergency, you can contact 999 for help, where English-speaking operators will answer your call. It's always advisable to bring the contact details of the embassy.
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