Question 1

Do I need the yellow fever vaccine to enter Kenya?

Accepted Answer

You need a yellow fever vaccination certificate if you are arriving from a country designated as having yellow fever transmission risk — this includes most of sub-Saharan Africa, parts of South America, and some Caribbean nations. If you arrive directly from Europe, North America, or other non-endemic regions, it is not a mandatory entry requirement. However, it is strongly recommended for anyone who will travel within East and Central Africa. The vaccine must be administered at least 10 days before travel to be valid.

Question 2

Is it easy to set up banking and finances when I first arrive?

Accepted Answer

Reasonably straightforward compared to many African countries. Your first priority should be getting a Safaricom SIM and setting up M-Pesa — this is your immediate payment solution for taxis, supermarkets, and daily expenses. For a formal bank account, you need your passport, Kenyan permit or e-visa stamp, and a KRA PIN (obtainable online at kra.go.ke). Equity Bank and KCB are the most expat-accessible; Standard Chartered is good for international transfers and USD accounts.

Question 3

How long does it take to get settled in Nairobi?

Accepted Answer

Most expats feel oriented within 4–6 weeks. The first 2 weeks are typically spent in serviced apartments or Airbnb while exploring neighbourhoods and finding permanent housing. By week 4, with a bank account, Kenyan SIM, M-Pesa, and a settled address, the daily rhythm becomes manageable. The traffic pattern is the last thing most people fully adapt to — building your social and professional network takes 2–3 months of consistent effort.

Question 4

What should I bring that is hard to find in Kenya?

Accepted Answer

Less than you might think. Nairobi's major supermarkets (Carrefour, Zucchini, Naivas) stock a wide range of imported goods, and there are excellent European, Indian, and South African product imports. Items worth bringing: specific prescription medications in a 6-month supply (pharmacies can run out of certain drugs), quality noise-cancelling headphones, a high-quality laptop for remote work, and any specialist sporting or outdoor equipment at a lower price than Kenya's import-heavy retail prices.

Question 5

Can I use my foreign driving licence in Kenya?

Accepted Answer

Yes, a valid foreign driving licence is recognised for the first 90 days after arrival. After 90 days, you must apply for a Kenyan driving licence from the NTSA. The process involves presenting your foreign licence, passport, and permit/residency documents, passing a local road test, and paying applicable fees. Processing typically takes 2–4 weeks. Note that Kenya drives on the left — if you are from a right-hand traffic country, allow extra adjustment time in the first few days.

Question 6

How much does it cost to ship household goods to Kenya?

Accepted Answer

International shipping to Mombasa port (the main entry point for sea freight) costs $2,000–6,000 for a 20-foot container from Europe, and $3,500–9,000 from North America, depending on origin and service level. Transit time from Europe is approximately 20–30 days. Budget additionally for Kenyan import duty (25–35% of assessed value for general household goods) and local clearing agent fees ($200–600). Many expats find it more cost-effective to ship only irreplaceable personal items and buy furniture locally.

Moving Guide

Overview

Key Takeaways

Before You Arrive

First Weeks in Kenya

Shipping & Customs

Driving Licence & Car

Common Questions — Moving Guide in Kenya

Find Your Perfect City with AI

Expat Insights, Weekly

More Kenya Guides

Ready to explore Kenya?