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Understanding Professional Regulations in Kenya

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Cheryl

Hello everyone,

Working in Kenya sometimes means navigating through the various professional regulations and can pose a real challenge for expats. It is essential to grasp the current standards to avoid unpleasant surprises and make the most of your experience in Kenya.

Let's explore the local specifics together:

Is it possible to work in all business sectors in Kenya? Are there sectors reserved for locals or regulated activities?

What administrative steps need to be taken to practice in regulated professions in Kenya? (required documents, language tests, certifications, accreditations, diploma equivalences, etc.)

How to stay informed about legal developments and new professional regulations in Kenya?

Which organizations or agencies can provide support to expats regarding their professional activities abroad?

By sharing your experiences, you contribute to easing the professional integration of future expats, helping them understand the specific regulations related to professions in Kenya.

Thanks to everyone for your contributions.

Cheryl
Expat.com Team

muluabujalaw

Hi,

The immigration Act in its schedule provides a list of professions that are regarded as regulated in Kenya. The most common ones  are medicine, law, banking, insurance, accounting, engineering, QS, and generally professions that are usually governed by professional bodies. During application for a permit, anyone looking to get into regulated profession will be required to provide a letter of no-objection from the regulating bodies.


There are no standard requirements for accreditation. It will depend on the rules governing the specific regulator, and most will be stipulated in the Act of Parliament establishing the regulator while others are stipulated by the regulator itself. Most immigration attorneys while handling your permit application can also assist you in getting clearance. If you plan to get clearance by yourself, then you can approach the specific regulator and ask to be issued a letter of no objection. Most regulators are protectionists and therefore getting clearance may not be a walk in the park but it's possible if you meet the requirements.  The timelines will depend on the responsiveness of the regulator.

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