How to Apply for a Passport in Kenya

Applying for a passport in Kenya is done online through the eCitizen portal. Here’s a step-by-step guide to help you through the process:

Steps to Apply for a Passport in Kenya

1. Access the eCitizen Portal:

• Visit the eCitizen website.

1. Create an Account or Log in:

• If you already have an eCitizen account, log in using your ID number or email and password.
• If you don’t have an account, click “Create an account” and follow the prompts to register. You’ll need your ID number and an email address or phone number.

1. Select Department of Immigration Services:

• Once logged in, select the “Department of Immigration Services” from the list of services available.

1. Choose “Apply for a Passport”:

• Under the Immigration Services, click on “Passport Application” to start your application.

1. Fill Out the Application Form:

• Complete the passport application form with accurate personal details, including your full name, date of birth, gender, nationality, and other relevant information.
• You will also need to select the type of passport you are applying for (e.g., 32-page, 48-page, or 64-page) and provide details of your next of kin.

1. Upload Required Documents:

• Prepare the following documents in digital format to upload:
  • A copy of your Kenyan ID card (both sides).
  • A copy of your birth certificate.
  • Three passport-sized photos taken on a white background.
  • Recommender’s ID copy (the recommender must be a Kenyan citizen with a valid ID).

1. Make Payment:

• After filling out the form and uploading the necessary documents, you will be prompted to make a payment. The amount depends on the type of passport:
  • 32-page passport: Ksh. 7,550
  • 48-page passport: Ksh. 9,550
  • 64-page passport: Ksh. 12,550
  • Diplomatic passport: Ksh. 12,550
• Payments can be made via mobile money (M-Pesa), credit/debit card, or direct bank deposit.

1. Download and Print Your Application:

• After payment, download and print the completed application form and the payment receipt.

1. Book an Appointment:

• The system will prompt you to book an appointment at your preferred immigration office for biometric data capture (fingerprints and photos). Choose a convenient date and time.

1. Attend the Appointment:
   • On the appointment day, go to the chosen immigration office with the printed application form, payment receipt, original documents (ID, birth certificate, etc.), and any other required documents.
   • You will have your biometric data captured and submit your application for processing.
2. Wait for Processing:
   • The processing time for passports in Kenya is typically about 10 to 15 working days, but it can vary depending on the demand.
3. Collect Your Passport:
   • You will receive an SMS notification once your passport is ready for collection. Go to the immigration office with your original ID and the collection slip to pick up your passport.

Additional Notes:

• Passport Types: Ensure you select the correct passport type based on your needs (ordinary, diplomatic, or service passport).
• Recommender: Your recommender should be someone who knows you well and is not a family member (e.g., a colleague, employer, or religious leader).
• Accuracy: Double-check all the information you provide to avoid delays or rejection of your application.

For more detailed guidance or updates, always refer to the official eCitizen website or the Department of Immigration Services.

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How much is a passport in Kenya

The amount depends on the type of passport: New prices are

• 32-page passport: Ksh. 7,550
• 48-page passport: Ksh. 9,550
• 64-page passport: Ksh. 12,550
• Diplomatic passport: Ksh. 12,550

Ecitizen passport tracking

To track the status of your passport application in Kenya through the eCitizen portal, follow these steps:

Steps to Track Your Passport Application on eCitizen

1. Access the eCitizen Portal:
   • Visit the eCitizen website.
2. Log in to Your Account:
   • Log in using your ID number or email address and password.
3. Navigate to the Immigration Services:
   • Once logged in, go to the “Department of Immigration Services” by selecting it from the list of available services.
4. Check Application Status:
   • Within the Immigration Services section, you should see an option to view your applications. Click on “My Applications” or a similar option to see a list of your recent applications, including the passport application.
   • Next to your passport application, you should see a status update that indicates the current stage of your application (e.g., “Submitted,” “Processing,” “Ready for Collection”).
5. Receive SMS Updates:
   • The Department of Immigration Services typically sends SMS notifications to the phone number you provided during the application process. These messages will update you when your passport is ready for collection.
6. Contact Immigration Services (if needed):
   • If your application status has not been updated for an extended period, or if you need further assistance, you can contact the Department of Immigration Services directly. You may visit their office, call their customer service, or email them for more information.

Requirements for passport application

When applying for a passport in Kenya, you need to provide several documents and meet specific requirements. Below is a comprehensive list of the necessary documents and conditions for a passport application:

1. Kenyan Citizens (Adults)

Documents Required:

• Duly Filled Passport Application Form: This is completed online through the eCitizen portal.
• Original National Identity Card (ID) and a copy (both sides).
• Original Birth Certificate and a copy.
• Three Passport-Sized Photos: Recent, colored photos taken on a white background. The size should be 2 inches by 2 inches.
• Recommender’s National ID Copy: A copy of the ID of a Kenyan citizen who knows you well and is not a family member. The recommender must be a professional, like a teacher, employer, or religious leader.
• Copies of Parents’ National ID Cards: If your parents are deceased, provide a copy of their death certificate.
• Payment Receipt: Print the payment receipt generated after you pay for the passport application on the eCitizen portal.

Additional Documents (if applicable):

• Marriage Certificate: If applying under a married name.
• Previous Passport: If applying for a replacement or renewal.

2. Kenyan Citizens (Minors under 18 years)

Documents Required:

• Duly Filled Passport Application Form: Completed online on the eCitizen portal.
• Original Birth Certificate and a copy.
• Parent’s/Guardian’s Original ID and a copy.
• Parent’s/Guardian’s Consent Letter: A signed letter from the parent or legal guardian consenting to the passport application.
• Three Passport-Sized Photos: Recent, colored photos taken on a white background.
• Copies of Parents’ National ID Cards.
• Payment Receipt: From the eCitizen portal.

3. Kenyan Citizens by Descent or Registration

Documents Required:

• Certificate of Citizenship: For those who acquired Kenyan citizenship by registration.
• Original and Copy of Kenyan ID Card.
• Original and Copy of Birth Certificate.
• Copies of Parents’ National ID Cards.
• Three Passport-Sized Photos.
• Recommender’s National ID Copy.
• Payment Receipt.