Getting a passport in Kenya is often considered a difficult task. With so many Kenyans eager to travel abroad for a job or pleasure, passport applications have become one of the most popular services in the country.
A passport is considered the foundation of international travel. It is necessary to have a valid passport when travelling abroad. Many travellers are unaware that most nations have passport expiration dates that must be adhered to. Most countries require travellers to have a valid passport for at least six months after they plan to arrive, however, this can vary.
In any case, always verify the passport validity requirements and expiration date of your passport if you are planning a trip overseas. This will help you avoid problems at the airport or at immigration when you arrive in your target country.
Also Read: How to Apply for a Kenyan eVisa in 3 Easy Steps
Digitization of the application process
In the digital era with us, you can apply for a passport, renew it, or replace and pay for it online. In the end, you’ll need to print a form. Sign and date the form, then attach any necessary documents or images before returning it for processing.
According to the Department of Immigration Once your application has been physically presented at the Immigration offices, it should take at least 10 working days to receive your first passport in Kenya. It should take at least 5 working days for all other sorts of applications. It may take longer if more information is required or if your application is incomplete.
Step by step guide on how to apply for a passport in Kenya
1. Register on www.ecitizen.go.ke
2. Click on the passport application form at immigration.ecitizen.go.ke or Department of Immigration Services.
3. After carefully reading the instructions, complete the application form.
4. Choose a payment method and pay the passport fees.
5. Print the application form as well as the three application receipts.
6. In-person, submit the application form to the Immigration offices. (Kisumu, Mombasa, Nyayo House.)
Requirements during submission
a) Three receipts and an eCitizen pre-filled passport application form.
b) Original and photocopy of birth certificate
c) Original and copy of national identification card
d) Three passport-size pictures taken recently.
e) Copy of the Recommender’s ID Card
f) Letter of consent for children.
g) Replacement of an old passport.
h) National ID cards and copies for parents
Passport application fees in Kenya
| 32 Pages Ordinary “A” Series | Ksh. 4,550 |
| 48 pages Ordinary “B” Series | Ksh. 6,050 |
| 64 Pages Ordinary “C” Series | Ksh. 7,550 |
| East African Passport | Ksh. 990 |
| Diplomatic passport (48 page) | Ksh 7,550 |
| Mutilated Passport | Ksh 10,050 |
| Lost Passport | Ksh 12,050 |
Also Read: Top 6 Superb African Visa-Free countries for Kenyans
Holding a Kenyan passport has many benefits. In our increasingly globalized world, there are many countries that welcome a Kenyan citizen with open arms. Perhaps the most popular benefit of a Kenyan passport is being able to travel to Visa-free countries for Kenyans.
When applying for a passport in Kenya, it’s vital to know that there are cons posing as immigration officers ready to give you a deal of a lifetime.
In the end, regardless of how good a deal you think you’re getting on your passport application, make sure that it’s legitimate before signing anything or handing over any payment. Apply directly through the immigration department, rather than through anyone else. That’s the safest way to ensure that you’ll get a real passport.
