Verify the status of your recruiter!

Check that the recruitment agency has been accredited by the National Employment Authority (NEA) before continuing the recruitment process.

Do your research!

Consider taking advantage of the services offered by the NEA with regards to seeking foreign employment and internships, including advisory services on employment matters, job and internship placement support, verification of foreign job offers, and pre-departure trainings. The Kenya Labour Market Information System (KLMIS) also provides information and resources with regards to career counselling, writing a curriculum vitae, searching for a job, and interview techniques.

Ensure you have the pre-requisites!

Check the pre-requisites for labour migration from the NEA, which includes a Kenyan passport, an original birth certificate, a police clearance certificate, a valid contract of service, a medical certificate, a work permit, and a travel visa. The NEA provides guidelines on where and how the pre-requisites can be obtained.

Sign a fair employment contract!

Read your contract carefully before signing. Discuss and negotiate the terms of your contract. Keep a copy of the signed contract with you. Do not sign a contract that you do not understand or agree with. Before working abroad, Kenyans must also have their employment contracts authenticated; attestation services are provided by the Department of Labour.

Know your rights!

Find out more about the labour laws in your destination country. Always keep a record of useful government and union contacts in case you encounter recruitment or employment problems. 

 

Kudheiha, an affiliate of the International Domestic Workers Federation, has been working with survivors and rescued domestic workers, to help share their experiences and prepare future migrant domestic workers. Kudheiha also provides an intercultural training program to equip workers with vital knowledge for when they arrive in their destination country. Kudheiha also organizes workers to improve legislation for workers in Kenya, and address gaps in migration law, including campaigning for the government to ratify the ILO Domestic Workers Convention (C189).

Other useful information