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Head to head

Kenya vs Philippines: the digital nomad visas compared

Low confidence Last verified June 15, 2026 Reviewed by Henry van de Vorming

The short version

  • Kenya grants a longer initial stay (24 months vs 12), and it is renewable.
  • Tax treatment differs: Kenya — standard resident taxation; Philippines — territorial taxation. Tax outcomes depend heavily on personal circumstances.
Side-by-side comparison of the Kenya Class N Permit and the Philippines DNV.
Criteria Kenya Class N Permit Philippines DNV
Minimum income / month €1,850 No fixed threshold
Income basis Salary / employment contract Savings accepted
Initial duration 2 years (better) 1 year
Renewable Yes Yes
Maximum total stay No fixed limit No fixed limit
Path to permanent residence Indirect (switch required) No
Path to citizenship No No
Family inclusion Yes (better) No
Working for local clients Not allowed Not allowed
Tax treatment Standard resident taxation Territorial taxation
Health insurance Required in practice Required (explicit)
Insurance duration required Full visa period Full visa period
Application fee ≈ €185 —
Where to apply Online, In country Embassy / consulate, Online
Processing time — —

Green values mark the objectively better number in that row.

Full guide

Kenya Class N Permit →

Requirements, application steps, insurance and sources.

Full guide

Philippines DNV →

Requirements, application steps, insurance and sources.

Don't forget insurance

Both programs have their own health-insurance rules — we match plans against each one's published requirement, with the evidence shown.

Insurance for Kenya → Insurance for Philippines →

Sources