Filing Kenyan Taxes from Abroad: A Complete Guide

Step-by-step instructions for filing your Kenyan tax return online from anywhere in the world.

In Simple Terms

You can file your Kenyan tax return online from anywhere in the world using the iTax portal. All you need is internet access, your KRA PIN, and your income documents. The process is similar to filing from Kenya, but you'll need to convert foreign income to Kenyan Shillings.

Overview

Filing your Kenyan tax return from abroad is straightforward thanks to KRA's online iTax system. Whether you're in the UK, US, Canada, or anywhere else, you can complete your return online.

Key Benefits

  • File from anywhere with internet access
  • No need to travel to Kenya
  • Secure online platform
  • Immediate confirmation of submission
  • Track your return status online

Getting Started

Before you begin, ensure you have:

Prerequisites

  • KRA PIN: Your Personal Identification Number
  • iTax Account: Registered and activated account
  • Login Credentials: Username and password for iTax
  • Income Documents: All income statements (Kenyan and foreign)
  • Tax Documents: Foreign tax returns and payment receipts
  • Exchange Rate Information: For converting foreign income
  • Banking Details: For any refunds or payments

Don't Have an iTax Account?

If you don't have an iTax account, you can:

  1. Register online at itax.kra.go.ke
  2. Contact KRA customer service for assistance
  3. Visit a KRA office if you're in Kenya
  4. Use the KRA mobile app for registration

Step-by-Step Filing Process

Step 1: Log into iTax

  1. Go to itax.kra.go.ke
  2. Enter your username and password
  3. Complete any security verification (if prompted)
  4. Navigate to "Returns" section

Step 2: Select Return Type

Choose "Individual Tax Return (ITR)" for personal income tax.

Select the appropriate tax year (e.g., 2024 for income earned in 2024).

Step 3: Enter Income Details

Enter all sources of income:

  • Employment Income: Salary, wages, bonuses (convert foreign currency to KES)
  • Business Income: Profits from businesses
  • Rental Income: Income from Kenyan property
  • Investment Income: Dividends, interest, capital gains
  • Other Income: Any other taxable income

Step 4: Claim Deductions and Reliefs

Enter all applicable deductions:

  • Personal relief (KES 34,560 annually)
  • Insurance relief
  • Mortgage interest relief
  • Pension contributions
  • Other allowable deductions

Step 5: Claim Foreign Tax Credits

If you paid tax in another country:

  1. Enter the amount of foreign tax paid
  2. Provide details of the foreign country
  3. Attach supporting documents (tax returns, receipts)
  4. The system will calculate the credit (subject to limits)

Step 6: Review and Submit

  1. Review all entered information carefully
  2. Check calculations are correct
  3. Verify exchange rates used
  4. Ensure all required fields are completed
  5. Submit the return
  6. Save or print the acknowledgment receipt

Required Documents

Have these documents ready before you start filing:

Kenyan Income

  • P9 forms (employment income)
  • Rental income statements
  • Business income records
  • Investment income statements
  • Bank statements

Foreign Income

  • Foreign tax returns
  • Foreign tax payment receipts
  • Employment contracts/statements
  • Bank statements (foreign currency)
  • Exchange rate documentation

Common Challenges and Solutions

Challenge: Exchange Rate Conversion

Solution: Use the exchange rate from the Central Bank of Kenya or recognized financial institutions at the time you received the income. Keep documentation of the rates used.

Challenge: Time Zone Differences

Solution: iTax is available 24/7, so you can file at any time convenient for you. However, KRA customer service operates during Kenyan business hours.

Challenge: Document Upload Issues

Solution: Ensure documents are in PDF format and under the size limit. If you encounter issues, try compressing files or contact KRA support.

Challenge: Understanding Foreign Tax Credits

Solution: Consult the double-taxation treaty between Kenya and your country of residence. Consider seeking professional tax advice for complex situations.

Deadlines and Penalties

Important deadlines for filing your tax return:

Filing Deadline

June 30th of the year following the tax year

Example: For income earned in 2024, file by June 30, 2025

Penalties for Late Filing:

  • KES 2,000 or 5% of tax due (whichever is higher) for late filing
  • Interest on outstanding tax at 1% per month
  • Additional penalties for continued non-compliance

Tips for Filing from Abroad

Best Practices

  • Start early - don't wait until the deadline
  • Keep all documents organized throughout the year
  • Convert foreign income as you receive it (note exchange rates)
  • Save your work frequently while filling the return
  • Print or save the acknowledgment receipt
  • Keep copies of all submitted documents
  • Set reminders for the filing deadline
  • Consider professional help for complex situations