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Head to head

Kenya vs South Africa: the digital nomad visas compared

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

The short version

  • Kenya has the lower entry bar: €1,850 per month versus €2,646 for South Africa.
  • South Africa grants a longer initial stay (36 months vs 24), and it is renewable.
Side-by-side comparison of the Kenya Class N Permit and the South Africa Remote Work.
Criteria Kenya Class N Permit South Africa Remote Work
Minimum income / month €1,850 (better) €2,646
Income basis Salary / employment contract Salary / employment contract
Initial duration 2 years 3 years (better)
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 Yes
Working for local clients Not allowed Not allowed
Tax treatment Standard resident taxation Standard resident taxation
Health insurance Required in practice Required in practice
Insurance duration required Full visa period Full visa period
Application fee ≈ €185 ≈ €33 (better)
Where to apply Online, In country Embassy / consulate
Processing time — 6–10 weeks

Green values mark the objectively better number in that row.

Full guide

Kenya Class N Permit →

Requirements, application steps, insurance and sources.

Full guide

South Africa Remote Work →

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 South Africa →

Sources