Legal Documents Every House Help Should Have Before Hiring in Kenya

Hiring a house help in Kenya is a common and necessary arrangement for many households. However, beyond trust and experience, it is important to ensure that the engagement follows Kenyan labour laws. Knowing the documents a house help should have in Kenya protects both the employer and the worker, promotes professionalism, and helps avoid legal or security issues. Below is a clear guide to the key documents and general legal requirements you should be aware of.

What Documents Should a House Help Have in Kenya? Legal Requirements Every Employer Should Know

1. National ID Card or Passport

A valid Kenyan National ID card is the most basic and important document a house help should have. It confirms the worker’s identity, age, and nationality. In cases where the worker is not Kenyan, a valid passport and relevant immigration documents are required. Employers should always verify originality and keep a copy for records.

Read More: 10 Kenyan National ID Security Features Every Employer Must Check (Latest Vetting Guide)

2. Certificate of Good Conduct

A Certificate of Good Conduct from the Directorate of Criminal Investigations (DCI) is highly recommended. While not mandatory by law, it is considered a best practice, especially for live-in house helps, nannies, or caregivers. This document helps assure the employer that the worker does not have a criminal record and builds trust in the employment relationship.

3. Employment Agreement or Contract

Kenyan labour law encourages written contracts, even for domestic workers. A simple employment contract should outline key terms such as duties, salary, working hours, rest days, leave, and termination conditions. Both parties should sign the agreement. This document helps prevent misunderstandings and protects the rights of both the house help and the employer.

4. NSSF Registration

Under Kenyan law, domestic workers are entitled to social security benefits. A house help should be registered with the National Social Security Fund (NSSF). The employer is responsible for making monthly contributions. An NSSF number or registration confirmation is therefore an important requirement.

5. SHA/SHIF Registration

House helps are also entitled to healthcare coverage through the the National Insurance Fund (SHA). Registration ensures access to medical services when needed. Employers are expected to facilitate or make NHIF contributions on behalf of the worker, making this document essential for legal compliance.

6. Work Permit (for Non-Kenyans)

If the house help is a foreign national, they must have a valid work permit or special pass issued by the Kenyan immigration authorities. Employing a foreign worker without proper authorization is illegal and can attract heavy penalties.

7. Medical Records (Optional but Advisable)

Although not a legal requirement, basic medical records or a recent medical check-up report can be helpful, especially when hiring caregivers or nannies. This supports health and safety for both the worker and the household.

Why These Documents Matter

Having the correct documents ensures compliance with Kenyan labour laws, promotes dignity for domestic workers, and reduces risks such as disputes, fines, or wrongful termination claims. For employers, proper documentation also improves security and accountability. For house helps, it guarantees access to social protection and fair treatment.

Final Thoughts

Understanding the documents a house help should have in Kenya is an important step toward responsible employment. Whether hiring directly or through a registered domestic workers bureau, always verify documents before engagement. Legal, transparent hiring not only protects your household but also supports decent work and fair labour practices in Kenya.

Kenyan Labour Laws Every House Help and Employer Must Know (Constitutional Guide From an Expert)

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About the Author

House Girls Village & Bureau
Domestic Staff Placement Experts in Kenya

This article was written by the team at House Girls Village & Bureau, a domestic staff placement bureau based in Kenya. With hands-on experience in recruiting, training, and placing house helps for Kenyan households, we work closely with both employers and domestic workers to ensure fair, safe, and professional placements. Our daily work involves screening candidates, advising families, resolving placement issues, and promoting ethical domestic employment practices.