For anyone planning to travel abroad, getting a passport is a key requirement and a necessity.
Whether you are travelling for work, school, as a tourist, or even relocating, you need a passport. To get one, you undoubtedly have to go through the passport application process in Kenya.
The passport application requirements in Kenya will be detailed in this step-by-step guide by Naicef.
Naicef is the go-to for help regarding any passport application issues you may face, and in a good time frame.
From the types of passports in Kenya to the documents needed for passport application in Kenya.
To know more about the application for a passport in Kenya, reach out to Naicef via [email protected], call +254799922277, or,
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Whether you are applying for the first time, renewing, replacing, or making changes to your passport, this step-by-step guide has you covered.
Passport Application Process In Kenya
Here’s how you apply for your Kenyan passport the right way.
Let us start with the documents needed for passport application in Kenya. The records required vary depending on the type of applicant.
For the first time, passport applicants, the documents needed for passport application in Kenya include;
- Original birth certificate and a copy of it
- Original and a copy of the National ID if 18 years and above
- Three current passport-size photos
- Filled and signed passport application form from eCitizen
- Consent letters for minors with the parent/ guardian’s signature
- Copy of a recommender’s ID who is a Kenyan Citizen not related
- Marriage certificate for women using spouse’s name
- Proof of Kenyan Citizenship for dual citizens
- Payment invoice receipt, two copies
For Passport renewals, documents needed for passport application in Kenya are;
- The old passport
- National ID Card and a copy
- Completed application Form
- Two recent passport-size photos
- Two copies of the Payment invoice receipts
- Birth certificate and a copy
For Lost or Mutilated Passport documents needed for passport application in Kenya are;
- Affidavit explaining the loss or damage
- Police abstract for loss of passport
- Original ID and copy
- Previous copy of the mutilated passport
- Payment of the prescribed fees
For the change of names needed for passport application in Kenya;
- Previous passport, if applicable
- National ID and copy
- Birth certificate and a copy
- Completed passport application form
- Proof of name change
- Three biometric passport-size photos
- Payment invoice and copy
Types Of Passports In Kenya
Kenyan passports are different depending on the purpose and the holder’s status. The types of Passports in Kenya include;
1. Ordinary Passport
The common passport issued to Kenyan citizens for general travel purposes abroad. May include tourism study or business.
Valid for only 10 years.
2. East African Passport
Designed for travel within the East African community countries without a visa.
It is not valid when travelling outside East African countries.
3. Diplomatic Passport
Issued to diplomats of the state, high-ranking government officials, their families, and other state representatives. It requires approval from the Ministry of Foreign Affairs.
They give the holder immunity when traveling on official business and certain special privileges.
4. Official Passport
Issued to government officials and employees travelling for official government business. These, however, do not entail diplomatic missions.
5. Emergency Passport
A temporary passport is issued in urgent situations, including lost or stolen passports or when the ordinary passport is unavailable. They are valid for a short period to allow the holder to return to Kenya if stranded abroad.
Application For Passport In Kenya Steps
Step 1: Register or Log in to Your eCitizen Account
Create an official eCitizen account if you don’t already have one.
You require a national ID card to register.
Log in to your account if you already have one.
Step 2: Navigate Your Passport Application
Navigate through to the Department of immigration services section.
Select the passport application and choose the type of passport and purpose.
Step 3: Fill out the online Form
Complete the passport application form online by entering personal information exactly as it appears on your birth certificate and ID.
Typos or mismatched names can delay your application and may require reapplication.
Upload any required documents listed.
Step 4: Choose the payment method and pay
Select your preferred payment method and pay the passport fees.
Cost varies depending on the types of passports in Kenya chosen, including the number of pages.
You can either pay via M-Pesa, credit, debit, or bank.
Step 5: Download and Print the Documents
Download and print the completed application form.
Sign the form where required and attach the payment invoice and all required documents.
Up to 3 copies are advisable to be safe.
Step 6: Book a Biometric Appointment and Attend It
Schedule an appointment at your preferred immigration office or Huduma Centre for biometrics and photograph capture.
Bring all originals and copies. You’ll have fingerprints, photos, and a signature taken.
In case of unavailable appointment dates online, visit your preferred center early in the morning with your documents.
Step 7: Track Your Application
Log in to eCitizen and check the Track application to see the status.
The typical timelines are;
- Official: 10 working days
- Reality: 2–8 weeks, depending on workload, location, and season.
Step 8: Collect Your Passport
You will receive an SMS when your passport is ready for collection.
Bring your ID and old passport in case of renewals.
Common Challenges
Some of the common challenges you might face during your passport application process in Kenya, and how to solve them.
- Incorrect or missing documents
Ensure you verify all your documents carefully before submitting them, and ensure they are complete and valid.
- Insufficient or No Payment
When registering for an application for passport in Kenya, ensure to pay the full application fee in order to avoid any issues.
- Ineligible Applicants
Some applicants may be deemed ineligible due to factors such as expired passports or failure to meet required documentation.
- Technical Issues with the Online Application
Ensure to have a stable internet connection and try clearing your browser cache before attempting to submit your application.
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Conclusion
In conclusion, the passport application process in Kenya can be easy and straightforward if you follow all the passport application requirements in Kenya.
It is very important to have all the documents needed for a passport application in Kenya so as to have an easy time.
You can avoid delays and ensure your travel plans stay on track by simply following the application for passport in Kenya process.
Get your passport of choice from the types of passports in Kenya, and remember to apply in advance of your travel date and keep copies of every document.
If possible, use less busy centers outside Nairobi for faster processing, and stay updated through the official Immigration Department website.
Contact Naicef at [email protected] or simply call +25479922277 for tips on your passport application process in Kenya.
Naicef offers any help on issues you might be facing and helps you get your passport ready in time for your trip.
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Frequently Asked Questions
1. How do I apply for a Kenyan passport?
You can apply for a passport online through eCitizen and following all the necessary steps. You will still need to do a physical appearance.
2. What are the fees for a Kenyan passport?
Fees can vary according to the passport type and number of pages. Information on the costs can be found via the eCitizen portal.
3. Can I renew my passport before it expires?
Yes, especially if it has less than 6 months’ validity left—many countries require this for visa issuance.
4. Do I need to bring passport photos?
Yes, but also note that a digital photo will be taken during biometrics.
5. Can I pay in cash at the office?
No, all payments are made online via the eCitizen portal.
