The Kenya HR Compliance Checklist
A practical, plain-English checklist of the employment essentials every Kenyan employer should have in place. Use it to spot gaps before they become problems.
1. Employment Contracts & Documentation
Written contract for every employeeAligned to the Employment Act 2007 - required for any contract longer than three months.
Core terms clearly statedJob title, duties, pay, hours, leave, notice period, and place of work.
Offer letters issued before start dateConsistent, professional, and signed by both parties.
Employee handbook / HR policiesOne reference point for how things work and what's expected.
2. Statutory Deductions & Registrations
PAYE (income tax)Registered with KRA; deducted and remitted monthly via iTax.
NSSF (pension)Employer and employee contributions registered and remitted.
SHIF (health)Social Health Insurance Fund - replaced NHIF; confirm correct rates and remittance.
Affordable Housing LevyDeducted and remitted where applicable.
HELB (where applicable)Student-loan deductions for relevant employees.
3. Leave, Hours & Records
Statutory leave entitlementsAnnual, sick, and maternity/paternity leave per the Employment Act.
Working hours & rest daysDefined and compliant; overtime handled correctly.
Accurate employee recordsPersonal details, contracts, pay, and leave kept up to date and secure.
Payslips issuedItemised payslips showing earnings and all deductions.
4. Policies & People Processes
Disciplinary & grievance proceduresFair process documented - critical for lawful dismissals.
Health & safety policyPer the Occupational Safety and Health Act.
Anti-harassment & equal opportunityClear standards and a safe way to raise concerns.
Structured onboarding & offboardingConsistent steps for joining and exiting, including final dues.
Disclaimer: This checklist is general guidance for educational purposes and is not legal advice. Statutory rates and requirements change. For advice specific to your organisation, speak to a qualified HR or legal professional.