Immigration Services in East Africa

Processing times vary depending on the country, immigration category, application requirements and prevailing processing volumes. While some applications may be processed within a few weeks, others may take longer depending on the complexity of the case and the relevant regulatory requirements.

Throughout the process, our team monitors your application’s progress, provides regular updates, and liaises with the relevant immigration authorities as necessary. Where available, we also advise on interim authorisations or alternative immigration pathways to help minimise disruption.

A work permit is generally issued to foreign nationals who intend to work, invest, or undertake an approved activity in a country for an extended period. Depending on the jurisdiction and permit category, it is typically granted for a specified duration and may be renewable, subject to applicable immigration laws and regulatory requirements.

A special pass, or its equivalent, is generally intended for short-term or temporary activities while longer-term immigration arrangements are being finalised or where temporary authorisation is required. Eligibility criteria, validity periods, and renewal provisions vary by country and immigration category.

Our team can advise on the most appropriate immigration pathway based on your circumstances, objectives, and the relevant jurisdiction.

Yes. With an established presence across Kenya, Uganda, Tanzania and Rwanda, we support clients with both single-country and multi-jurisdictional immigration requirements. Our teams work collaboratively across the region to provide coordinated, consistent support, helping clients navigate differing immigration requirements, regulatory frameworks and processing timelines with confidence.

Yes. We assist with dependent and family-related immigration applications for spouses, children and other eligible family members, subject to the immigration requirements of the relevant jurisdiction. Our team provides guidance throughout the process, from documentation and application preparation to renewals and ongoing immigration support. We also assist with student and pupil pass applications where required, helping families navigate immigration requirements with confidence.

The documents required will depend on the country, immigration category and the purpose of the application. Common requirements may include a valid passport, supporting identification documents, educational or professional qualifications, employment or business-related documentation, and other information required by the relevant immigration authority.

Our team provides a tailored document checklist at the outset of each engagement, ensuring you understand the specific requirements for your application and jurisdiction.

If a work permit or other immigration authorisation is due to expire while a renewal application is being processed, it is important to understand the options available to help maintain compliance. The implications will depend on the relevant jurisdiction, immigration category and the individual’s circumstances.

Where renewal timelines are tight, our team advises on the options available to help maintain compliance and minimise disruption, including temporary immigration authorisations or other interim measures where available. We also work proactively with clients to monitor expiry dates, manage renewal timelines and reduce the risk of unintended lapses.

As a best practice, we recommend starting the renewal process well in advance of the permit’s expiry date, as processing times and documentary requirements vary across jurisdictions and immigration categories.

For most immigration matters, our team provides end-to-end support without the need for a separate legal engagement. We assist clients with immigration applications, compliance requirements, renewals, advisory services and ongoing immigration support across East Africa.

Where specialist legal advice is required, we can facilitate access to legal expertise through our relationship with ALN, ensuring clients receive coordinated, practical support throughout the process.