When you employ a nanny or house help in Kenya you are an employer under the Employment Act. That means a written contract, at least the minimum wage, statutory contributions, a weekly rest day and paid leave. This is a summary, not legal advice; check current rates with the agencies or a labour officer.
The contract
A contract longer than three months must be in writing. It should state pay, hours, duties, rest days, leave and notice. See what to include in a house help contract.
Pay
Pay at least the minimum wage on an agreed day each month and keep a record, such as an M-Pesa statement or a signed pay slip.
Statutory contributions
| Contribution | Who pays | Rate |
|---|---|---|
| NSSF (pension) | Employer and worker | 6% each of pensionable pay |
| Affordable Housing Levy | Employer and worker | 1.5% each of gross pay |
| SHIF (health, via SHA) | Worker (you deduct and remit) | 2.75% of gross pay |
You register as an employer and remit monthly, generally by the 9th of the following month. At minimum-wage level, PAYE is usually nil after personal relief.
Time off
- Rest: at least one rest day in every seven days.
- Annual leave: at least 21 working days with full pay after 12 months of service.
- Sick leave: 7 days on full pay and then 7 days on half pay a year, after two months of service, with a medical certificate.
- Maternity leave: three months with full pay. Paternity leave: two weeks.
Ending employment
For a worker paid monthly, either side gives 28 days' notice or pays a month's wages instead. During probation (up to six months), notice is seven days. Pay any outstanding salary and leave days at the end.
Quick answers
Do I have to pay NSSF for my house help?
Yes. Domestic workers are employees, so the employer registers and pays NSSF (6% employer share, plus 6% deducted from the worker), the Housing Levy (1.5% each) and remits SHIF (2.75%, deducted from the worker).
How many leave days does a house help get in Kenya?
At least 21 working days of paid annual leave after 12 months of service, plus one rest day a week, sick leave, and maternity or paternity leave.