Work permits
Class M work permits can be issued by the Department of Immigration to recognised refugees and are processed for free. UNHCR and RCK can assist you to fill a form for your application/apply via the online platform. You will need to provide the following:
- A letter from your intended employer or, if private business, the certificate of incorporation
- 2 coloured passport photos
- Refugee ID card
- Letter from DRS
Registering a Business
If you would like to register your business, please contact UNHCR, Refugee Consortium Kenya (RCK) and Norwegian Refugee Council Information, Counselling and Legal Assistance project (NRC-ICLA). Please provide the following:
- 3 suggested names for the business name search
- A copy of your refugee ID and KRA Pin
- 3 passport sized photos
- Nature of the company’s businesses
- Directors and members
- Location of the company
- Contact information
The UNHCR Legal Unit will provide you information on the drafting of memorandums and the roles and responsibilities of directors and on how to obtain Kenya Revenue Authority PIN Certificates.
Registering a Community-Based Organization (CBO) or Self-Help Group (SHG)
The Social Development Officer in Kakuma at the DCC compound registers CBOs and SHGs. Please contact UNHCR for more information and assistance with registration.
Business Permits/ Licenses
The county revenue authorities issue business permits and licenses. You will need a business registration certificate, and the amount charged will depend on the nature and size of your business. Upon payment, you will be issued a certificate as proof. Clients are encouraged to visit the Biashara Center in Kabogorit, Kakuma, for extensive services.
- Health permits for food service establishments (fees applicable)
- Business registration certificate
- Inspection of business premises (fit for purpose and hygiene facilities)
- Workers to have health clearance certificate to work in food service industry
- Small business permits (fees are applicable)
- Proof of business ownership (registration document)
- Business registration certificate
- Location and nature of business
- Permits fees depends on the scale of the business..
- Permits are renewed annually…
Credit and loan facilities.
Access to credit and loan facilities encourages clients to visit Equity Bank – next to LWF Compound adjacent to the Kakuma Police station and KCB Bank in Kakuma town. We have three microfinance entities offering affordable financial inclusion; these include INKOMOKO, Kenya Bankers Sacco, and RAFODE. These entities are on your way to the Kakuma Airstrip.