Applying for a Kenyan passport is a straightforward process, but it’s important to be prepared with the right documents and information. Below is a step-by-step guide on the requirements for obtaining a Kenyan passport.
1. Kenyan Citizenship
Only Kenyan citizens are eligible to apply for a Kenyan passport. You must provide proof of your citizenship, such as a Kenyan birth certificate or national ID card.
2. Age Requirements
- Adults: You must be 18 years or older to apply for an adult passport.
- Minors: Applicants below the age of 18 must apply through their parents or guardians.
3. National Identification Card (ID)
For adult applicants, a copy of your Kenyan national ID card (both sides) is required. Make sure your details are up to date and correct.
4. Passport Photos
You will need two recent passport-sized photos. The photos must meet the following criteria:
- Clear, full-face view
- White background
- Size: 2×2 inches
5. Birth Certificate
A copy of your Kenyan birth certificate is required as proof of citizenship. Ensure the details on your birth certificate match those on your ID and other documents.
6. Recommender’s Form
The passport application requires a recommender’s endorsement. The recommender must be a Kenyan citizen, known to you for at least 3 years, and not an immediate family member. Their ID details must be included.
7. Parental/Guardian Consent (For Minors)
Minors applying for a passport need a letter of consent from their parents or legal guardians, accompanied by copies of the parent’s/guardian’s ID cards.
8. Previous Passport (For Renewals)
If you are renewing or replacing a passport, you must present the expired passport or explain why the original is unavailable (e.g., lost or stolen).
9. Marriage Certificate (For Married people)
If you are a married person applying for a passport , a copy of your marriage certificate is required.
10. Special Cases (Dual Citizenship, Refugees)
Applicants who hold dual citizenship must provide copies of their foreign passport and proof of dual citizenship registration with the Kenyan government. Refugees seeking a travel document must present relevant documents from the Refugee Affairs Secretariat.
11. Passport Application Fees
The cost of a Kenyan passport depends on the type:
| Passport size | Fee (Ksh) |
| 34 Pages Ordinary “A” Series | Kshs. 7,500 |
| 50 pages Ordinary “B” Series | Kshs. 9,500 |
| 66 Pages Ordinary “C” Series | Kshs. 12,500 |
| Diplomatic passport (50 page) | Kshs 15,000 |
| Mutilated Passport | Kshs 20,000 |
| Lost Passport | Kshs 20,000 |
Payment is done online and only through the eCitizen portal.
12. eCitizen Portal Account
To apply for a passport, you must have an active eCitizen account. You can register for free on the eCitizen website.
13. Submitting the Application
- Once all documents are ready, log into your eCitizen account, fill out the passport application form, and upload the necessary documents.
- Choose your preferred immigration center for biometric capture (Nairobi, Mombasa, Kisumu, Eldoret, etc.).
- After submission, download and print the application form and three invoices as proof of payment.
14. Biometric Capture
Visit the selected immigration office on your scheduled date with the printed forms, invoices, and original documents for biometric capture (fingerprints and photo).
15. Processing Time
Once your biometric capture is completed, the processing time usually takes 10–15 working days. You will receive an SMS notification when your passport is ready for collection.
By following these steps and preparing the necessary documents, you can successfully apply for a Kenyan passport. Always ensure that all your information is accurate and up to date to avoid delays during processing.
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