Relocating to East Africa: What You Need to Know
Moving to Kenya, Uganda, or Tanzania requires preparation, understanding of local processes, and knowledge of legal and financial requirements. This guide provides essential information to help you plan confidently.
- VISA AND RESIDENCY INFORMATION
Relocating to Kenya, Uganda, or Tanzania involves selecting the appropriate visa type. Below are the most common categories:
Tourist Visa
- Purpose: Short-term visits for tourism, family, or exploration
- Validity: Usually 30 to 90 days; sometimes extendable once inside the country
- Application: Online (eVisa portals), at embassies, or on arrival (check country-specific rules)
- Cost Estimate: $50 – $100
- Documents Required: Passport (valid at least 6 months), travel itinerary, accommodation details, return ticket
Work Visa
- Purpose: For foreign nationals offered employment in East Africa
- Validity: Usually 1 to 2 years, renewable
- Application: Must be supported by a recognized employer
- Cost Estimate: $200 – $500 (varies by country and profession)
- Documents Required: Job offer/contract, academic qualifications, employer sponsorship letter, passport
Student Visa
- Purpose: For foreigners enrolled in educational institutions
- Validity: Based on course duration
- Application: Through the host institution or government immigration portal
- Cost Estimate: $50 – $150
- Documents Required: Admission letter, passport, proof of financial support, recent photos
Investor Permit
- Purpose: For individuals investing in a local business or project
- Eligibility: Minimum capital requirement varies:
- Kenya: ~$100,000
- Uganda: ~$50,000 (for foreigners), ~$250,000 (if joint venture with locals)
- Tanzania: Case-by-case, often $100,000+
- Validity: Typically 1–2 years, renewable
- Cost Estimate: $500 – $1,000+ depending on investment size and sector
- Documents Required: Business plan, incorporation documents, capital proof, passport
Dependent / Spouse Visa
- Purpose: For spouses and children of individuals holding work, investor, or student visas
- Validity: Matches the primary visa holder’s term
- Cost Estimate: $100 – $300
- Documents Required: Marriage/birth certificate, sponsor’s visa, passport, photos
East African Tourist Visa (Joint Visa for Kenya, Rwanda, Uganda)
- Purpose: Allows travel to all three countries with one visa
- Validity: 90 days
- Cost: ~$100
- Apply Through: Country of entry’s eVisa platform
- Note: Not valid for Tanzania or Burundi
- LEGAL IDENTITY & RESIDENCY
- Alien ID / Foreigner Certificate
Mandatory for long-term stay in most EAC countries
Estimated fee: $100 – $150 - Residency Permits
Often required after arrival for stays longer than 90 days - Renewals & Reporting
Residency and visa renewals may involve local immigration visits every 6–12 months
- LAND & PROPERTY PURCHASE (GENERAL GUIDELINES)
- Land Search & Legal Verification
Recommended before purchase; typically handled by a lawyer
Cost: $50 – $150 - Land Purchase (Per Acre)
- Rural areas: $1,500 – $5,000
- Peri-urban: $5,000 – $15,000
- Urban areas: $10,000 – $30,000+
- Title Transfer & Registration
Government and legal processing can range from $300 – $700
- BUSINESS SETUP OVERVIEW
- Company Registration
Process includes name search, tax ID registration, and incorporation documents
Estimated cost: $150 – $400
Timeframe: 5–21 working days - Investor Requirements
Countries like Kenya may require minimum capital of $100,000 for foreign investors
- BANKING & MOBILE MONEY SETUP
- Required Documents: Passport, visa, proof of residence (e.g. lease agreement)
- Account Fees: Typically free – $50 depending on bank
- Mobile Money: Widely used platforms include M-Pesa, Airtel Money, and MTN Mobile Money
IMPORTANT NOTES
- All costs are estimates and vary by country, location, and service provider.
- Always verify requirements with the official immigration websites of Kenya, Uganda, or Tanzania.
- Consider legal consultation before large transactions such as land purchases or business investments.
✈️ Travel Itinerary Template (Free Download)
Planning your trip to Kenya, Uganda, or Tanzania?
Use this simple and printable Travel Itinerary Template to organize your flight details, accommodation, and travel dates. It’s especially helpful when applying for a visa or preparing for relocation.
Includes:
Personal details
Travel details
Flight and hotel sections