KI

KHALID ISSA & ASSOCIATES​

OUR PRACTICE

We believe in accessible, reliable and client – centered legal services. Our practice is built on integrity, professionalism, and a deep commitment to achieving results for our clients.

Every client comes with unique needs, and we’re here to meet them with precision and care. That’s why our practice is structured around four specialized areas of law, giving you tailored support at every stage of life and business.

Immigration Law

From work permits to residency applications, we guide individuals and companies through Kenya’s immigration framework, ensuring compliance and peace of mind.

Family Law & Estate Planning

We help families plan for the future with trusts, wills, and succession strategies designed to protect your loved ones and assets.

Corporate & Commercial Law

Our team supports businesses across all stages; from formation and compliance to contracts, transactions, and dispute resolution.

Intellectual Property Law

Protecting creativity and innovation is central to business growth. We assist clients with trademarks, copyrights, patents, and IP strategy.

FREQUENTLY ASKED QUESTIONS

Immigration Law

Kenya’s immigration system can be complex, especially for individuals and businesses navigating permits, visas, and compliance requirements.

To apply for a work permit in Kenya, you must submit an online application through the Department of Immigration Services, along with supporting documents such as an employment contract and company registration. A lawyer can help ensure your application is complete and compliant.

A work permit allows long-term employment in Kenya, while a special pass is temporary and issued for short-term assignments or while waiting for a work permit decision.

Yes, foreigners can own property in Kenya, but land ownership is restricted to leasehold tenure for up to 99 years. Legal advice helps structure property transactions properly.

Work permit applications in Kenya typically take 2–3 months to process, depending on the class of permit and supporting documentation.

No. A valid work permit authorizes residence and employment in Kenya, but you must keep it renewed before expiry.

Family Law and Estate Planning

Planning for the future and protecting your loved ones often raises sensitive and practical questions. Here, we address frequent concerns around wills, trusts, custody, and succession under Kenyan law.

A will ensures your assets are distributed according to your wishes. Without one, Kenyan intestacy laws apply, which may not reflect your intentions.

To set up a trust in Kenya, trustees and beneficiaries must be identified, trust documents prepared, and the trust registered under the Trustees (Perpetual Succession) Act. Legal assistance ensures compliance and clarity.

Kenyan courts prioritize the best interests of the child, considering factors such as parental care, financial ability, and stability. Custody can be joint or sole depending on circumstances.

If you die intestate (without a will), the Law of Succession Act dictates how your estate is distributed among your spouse, children, and dependents. This can cause disputes if not planned properly.


Yes, foreigners with assets in Kenya can create wills or trusts governed by Kenyan law to manage their estate locally.

Corporate & Commercial Law

Whether you’re starting a new business, expanding operations, or navigating compliance, corporate law in Kenya comes with many details.

Company registration in Kenya is done online through the eCitizen platform. It involves reserving a name, filing incorporation documents, and paying the prescribed fees. A lawyer can streamline the process.

Most private companies can be registered with minimal share capital, but regulated sectors (like banking or insurance) may have higher statutory requirements.

Yes, a shareholder agreement is strongly recommended. It governs the rights, responsibilities, and dispute resolution mechanisms among shareholders beyond what is in the Companies Act.

Foreign companies can either register a local subsidiary or register as a foreign branch under the Companies Act. Each structure has different tax and compliance implications.

The main types include sole proprietorships, partnerships, limited liability companies (LLCs), and foreign branches. Choosing the right entity depends on liability, tax, and growth plans.

Intellectual Property Law

Whether you’re starting a new business, expanding operations, or navigating compliance, corporate law in Kenya comes with many details.

Trademarks are registered through the Kenya Industrial Property Institute (KIPI). The process includes a search, application, examination, and publication before registration is granted.

A trademark in Kenya is valid for 10 years from the date of registration and can be renewed indefinitely in 10-year increments.

Copyright is automatic upon creation of original work, but voluntary registration with the Kenya Copyright Board (KECOBO) strengthens enforcement rights.

Yes. Patents are registered through KIPI. The invention must be new, involve an inventive step, and be capable of industrial application.

You can issue a cease-and-desist notice, pursue civil remedies such as injunctions and damages, or file a criminal complaint where applicable.

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Best of Karen

The ‘Best of Karen’ Business Awards is a local awards program recognising success, innovation and ethics across all industry sectors in Karen. The awards honor Karen’s industry leaders through the acknowledgment of innovative business processes, business excellence and overall business success.