Applying for a passport in Kenya has been made seamless through the eCitizen platform. This article will explain step-by-step how to apply for a passport in Kenya, including for non-citizens and foreigners, and answer key questions like costs, requirements, and timelines. Whether it’s your first time or a renewal, this guide covers everything you need to know.
Key Takeaways
- Platform: Apply via the eCitizen portal.
- Requirements: National ID, birth certificate, application form, and passport-size photos.
- Costs: Starting from KES 4,550 for a 34-page passport.
- Processing Time: Around 10-15 working days.
- Special Cases: Applications for minors, lost passports, and diplomatic passports have additional requirements.
Requirements for First-Time Passport Application
To apply for a passport in Kenya for the first time, ensure you have the following:
- National ID (Original and Copy)
- Birth Certificate (Original and Copy)
- Passport Application Form (Download from eCitizen)
- Three Passport-Size Photos
How to Apply for a Passport in Kenya Online
Follow these steps to complete your passport application online:
- Visit the eCitizen platform.
- Create an account or log in if you already have one.
- Select Department of Immigration Services and click on Passport Application.
- Fill in your personal details and upload the required documents.
- Pay the application fee via M-Pesa or bank transfer.
- Download and print the completed application form.
- Book an appointment for biometric capture at a Huduma Centre or passport office.
Passport Costs in Kenya
| Passport Type | Pages | Cost (KES) | Validity |
|---|---|---|---|
| Ordinary Passport | 34 | 4,550 | 10 Years |
| Ordinary Passport | 50 | 7,550 | 10 Years |
| Diplomatic Passport | 48 | 7,550 | 10 Years |
| Temporary Passport | N/A | 350 | 1 Year |
Payment Methods:
- M-Pesa Paybill: 206206
- Bank Transfers
How to Apply for a Lost Passport in Kenya
If you lose your passport, follow these steps:
- Report the loss at your nearest police station and obtain a police abstract.
- Log in to eCitizen and select Lost Passport Application.
- Fill out the form and pay the replacement fee of KES 12,000.
- Book an appointment for biometric capture and submit the required documents.
How to Apply for a Child’s Passport in Kenya
For minors under 18, the following are required:
- Child’s Birth Certificate
- National ID of the parent/guardian
- Written consent from the parent/guardian
- Completed application form from eCitizen
FAQs: Your Passport Questions Answered
1. How much does it cost to apply for a passport in Kenya?
Costs range from KES 4,550 to KES 7,550, depending on the passport type.
2. How long does it take to process a passport?
The process takes approximately 10-15 working days.
3. Can I apply for a passport without a birth certificate?
No, a birth certificate is mandatory for first-time applicants.
4. What are the requirements for non-citizens?
Non-citizens must provide proof of residency, work permits, or other legal documents.
5. How do I apply for a diplomatic passport?
Diplomatic passports are issued to government officials and require a special recommendation letter from the relevant ministry.
How to Apply for a Temporary Passport in Kenya
A temporary passport is issued for emergency travel, typically for East African countries. Follow these steps to apply:
- Log in to the eCitizen platform.
- Select Temporary Passport Application under the Department of Immigration Services.
- Fill out the application form, ensuring you include:
- National ID (copy and original)
- Travel itinerary or proof of travel
- Passport-size photos
- Pay the application fee of KES 350.
- Print the completed form and book an appointment for processing.
Processing Time: A temporary passport is usually issued within 1-3 days.
How to Apply for a Diplomatic Passport in Kenya
Diplomatic passports are reserved for government officials, diplomats, and individuals representing Kenya in an official capacity.
Steps to Apply:
- Obtain a recommendation letter from the Ministry of Foreign Affairs or relevant ministry.
- Log in to the eCitizen platform.
- Select Diplomatic Passport Application and complete the form.
- Submit required documents, including:
- Recommendation letter
- National ID
- Current passport (if applicable)
- Pay the fee of KES 7,550 and book an appointment for biometric capture.
Processing Time: 10-15 working days.
How Long Does It Take to Apply for a Passport in Kenya?
The duration for processing a passport in Kenya varies depending on the type of passport:
- Ordinary Passport: 10-15 working days
- Diplomatic Passport: 10-15 working days
- Temporary Passport: 1-3 days
To avoid delays, ensure all documents are accurate and payments are promptly made via M-Pesa or other approved channels.
Requirements for Online Passport Application
When applying for a passport online, prepare the following:
- Scanned copies of your National ID and Birth Certificate
- Completed eCitizen passport application form
- Three passport-size photos
- Proof of payment
Ensure all documents are clear and properly formatted to meet the Kenya Immigration Services standards.
Can I Apply for a Passport Without a Birth Certificate in Kenya?
Unfortunately, a birth certificate is mandatory for first-time applicants. If you’ve lost your birth certificate, you must apply for a replacement at your nearest civil registration office.
For more details, visit the Kenya Civil Registration Services website.
How to Apply for a Lost Passport in Kenya
Losing your passport can be stressful, but replacing it is a straightforward process in Kenya. Here’s what you need to do:
Steps to Replace a Lost Passport:
- Report the Loss:
- File a report at your nearest police station and obtain a police abstract.
- Notify the Department of Immigration Services by submitting the report.
- Log in to eCitizen:
- Access the eCitizen platform and select Replace Lost Passport under the Immigration Services tab.
- Complete the Form:
- Fill in the details, including your lost passport number, if available.
- Upload required documents:
- Police abstract
- National ID
- Passport-size photos
- Pay the Fee:
- Replacement fees vary depending on the passport type:
- Ordinary Passport (32 pages): KES 4,550
- Diplomatic Passport: KES 7,550
- Replacement fees vary depending on the passport type:
- Biometric Appointment:
- Book an appointment and visit the immigration offices for biometric capture.
Processing Time:
The replacement process takes 10-15 working days, similar to a new passport.
How to Apply for a Child’s Passport in Kenya
Kenyan minors (below 18 years) require a child’s passport for international travel. Parents or guardians must apply on their behalf.
Application Steps:
- Log in to eCitizen:
- Select Child Passport Application under Immigration Services.
- Fill Out the Form:
- Provide the child’s details, including date of birth, school information, and guardianship status.
- Submit Required Documents:
- Certified copy of the child’s birth certificate
- National IDs of both parents or guardians
- Parent’s or guardian’s written consent
- Three recent passport-size photos of the child
- Pay the Fee:
- Child passport fee: KES 3,050
- Book an Appointment:
- Schedule a date for biometric capture at an immigration center.
Processing Time:
It takes 10-15 working days to process a child’s passport.
How to Apply for a Passport in Kenya Online
The online passport application system simplifies the process, saving time and effort.
Steps for Online Application:
- Create an eCitizen Account:
- Visit the eCitizen website and sign up for an account if you don’t already have one.
- Select Passport Application:
- Choose the type of passport you want to apply for, such as ordinary, diplomatic, or temporary.
- Complete the Form:
- Provide personal details, next of kin, and travel history.
- Upload Documents:
- Scan and upload required documents, including your National ID, Birth Certificate, and passport-size photos.
- Make Payment:
- Pay via M-Pesa or a bank transfer. Fees vary depending on the passport type.
- Book an Appointment:
- Select a convenient date for biometric capture at the nearest immigration center.
Advantages of Online Application:
- Saves time by avoiding long queues
- Allows for easy tracking of application status
- Reduces the risk of errors
FAQs About Applying for a Passport in Kenya
1. How much does it cost to apply for a passport in Kenya?
The cost depends on the type of passport:
- 32-page passport: KES 4,550
- 48-page passport: KES 6,050
- 64-page passport: KES 7,550
2. Can I apply for a passport without a National ID?
No, a valid National ID is a mandatory requirement for all applicants above 18 years.
3. How long does it take to process a passport in Kenya?
Processing typically takes 10-15 working days for ordinary passports. Temporary passports take 1-3 days.
4. What are the requirements for a first-time passport application?
You’ll need:
- National ID
- Birth Certificate
- Three passport-size photos
- Filled eCitizen form
- Proof of payment
5. Can foreigners apply for Kenyan passports?
No, only Kenyan citizens are eligible for Kenyan passports. However, foreigners can apply for Kenyan visas or work permits via the eVisa platform.
Requirements for First-Time Passport Application in Kenya
Applying for a passport for the first time requires meeting specific documentation and procedural requirements. Below is a breakdown of the necessary steps and documents.
Documents Needed for First-Time Passport Application:
- National ID Card
- A copy of your valid National ID.
- Original Birth Certificate
- A certified copy to prove Kenyan citizenship.
- Three Passport-Size Photos
- Recent, colored, and taken on a white background.
- Parents’ National ID Cards
- Copies of both parents’ ID cards for verification.
- Duly Filled Application Form
- Completed on the eCitizen portal.
Steps for First-Time Application:
- Log in to eCitizen:
- Create an account if you don’t have one.
- Navigate to Immigration Services and select New Passport Application.
- Fill Out the Form:
- Input your personal information accurately.
- Upload Documents:
- Attach scanned copies of all required documents.
- Pay the Application Fee:
- Use M-Pesa or bank transfer. Fees depend on the passport type.
- Schedule a Biometric Appointment:
- Select a convenient date for fingerprint capture and photo verification.
Processing Time:
The process takes 10-15 working days from the date of biometric capture.
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Requirements for Online Passport Application
The online passport application is designed to streamline the process. Here’s what you’ll need to apply online:
Documents Required:
- Scanned National ID
- Scanned Birth Certificate
- Passport Photos in JPEG format
- eCitizen Application Form
Online Application Steps:
- Visit the eCitizen platform.
- Select Passport Application under Immigration Services.
- Fill in the required details and upload your documents.
- Make the payment online and print the receipt.
- Book an appointment for biometric capture.
Why Apply Online?
- Convenient and time-saving
- Allows for document upload and fee payment in one platform
- Easy tracking of your application status
How to Apply for a Diplomatic Passport in Kenya
Diplomatic passports are reserved for government officials, diplomats, and high-ranking officials traveling on official state business.
Eligibility for a Diplomatic Passport:
- Government officials on diplomatic duty
- Staff of international organizations with special privileges
- Family members of diplomats
Application Process:
- Complete the Diplomatic Passport Form:
- Available on eCitizen.
- Attach Supporting Documents:
- Appointment letter
- Clearance from relevant government agencies
- National ID
- Pay the Fee:
- Diplomatic passport fee: KES 7,550.
- Submit at Immigration Offices:
- Biometric capture is required.
Processing Time:
Typically, processing takes 7-10 working days.
How Long Does It Take to Apply for a Passport in Kenya?
The time frame for obtaining a passport varies based on the type of application.
Estimated Processing Times:
- Ordinary Passport: 10-15 working days
- Temporary Passport: 1-3 days
- Diplomatic Passport: 7-10 working days
Factors That May Affect Processing Time:
- Incomplete Documentation: Missing documents can delay the process.
- High Demand Periods: Expect longer processing times during peak travel seasons.
- Biometric Appointment Availability: Limited slots can extend your timeline.
For updates, track your application on eCitizen.
How to Apply for a Temporary Passport in Kenya
A temporary passport is ideal for emergency travel within East Africa. Below is a step-by-step guide to acquiring one.
Who Can Apply for a Temporary Passport?
- Kenyan citizens traveling within East African countries
- Individuals with urgent travel needs but no valid ordinary passport
Documents Required for Temporary Passport Application:
- National ID
- Original Birth Certificate
- Two Passport-Size Photos
- Filled Temporary Passport Form (downloadable on eCitizen)
Application Process:
- Log in to eCitizen:
- Navigate to Immigration Services and select Temporary Passport Application.
- Fill in the Form:
- Include travel details and purpose.
- Pay the Fee:
- The fee is KES 350.
- Submit Documents at Immigration Office:
- Visit your nearest immigration center for processing.
Processing Time:
It typically takes 1-3 working days to receive a temporary passport.
How Much Does It Cost to Apply for a Passport in Kenya?
The cost of a passport in Kenya varies depending on the type and number of pages. Below is a breakdown of the current fees:
| Passport Type | Number of Pages | Cost (KES) |
|---|---|---|
| Ordinary Passport | 34 Pages | 4,550 |
| Ordinary Passport | 50 Pages | 6,050 |
| Ordinary Passport | 66 Pages | 7,550 |
| Diplomatic Passport | 48 Pages | 7,550 |
| Temporary Passport | N/A | 350 |
How to Pay:
Payments are made via M-Pesa or bank transfer through the eCitizen portal.
How to Apply for a Lost Passport in Kenya
Losing a passport can be stressful, but the process for applying for a replacement is straightforward.
Steps to Replace a Lost Passport:
- Report the Loss:
- File a report at the nearest police station and obtain a police abstract.
- Swear an Affidavit:
- Visit a commissioner for oaths and swear an affidavit explaining the loss.
- Log in to eCitizen:
- Select Lost Passport Application and fill in the form.
- Submit Documents:
- Attach the police abstract, affidavit, and your National ID.
- Pay the Replacement Fee:
- The fee is the same as the original passport cost.
Processing Time:
The replacement passport is processed within 15 working days.
FAQs
1. Can I Apply for a Passport Without a Birth Certificate in Kenya?
No, a birth certificate is mandatory for passport applications as it serves as proof of citizenship.
2. How Do I Track My Passport Application?
Track your application status by logging into the eCitizen platform under the Immigration Services tab.
3. How Much Does It Cost to Apply for a Passport in Kenya Today?
The cost ranges from KES 4,550 to KES 7,550 depending on the type and number of pages required.
4. What Are the Requirements for Passport Application for Minors in Kenya?
- Birth certificate
- Copies of parents’ National IDs
- Consent letter from parents/guardians
5. How Long Does It Take to Get a Passport?
The average processing time is 10-15 working days for an ordinary passport.
Checklist for Passport Applicants in Kenya
To ensure a smooth passport application process, use this checklist before you begin:
General Requirements:
- National ID or Birth Certificate (for minors)
- Two passport-size photos
- Completed passport application form (downloadable from eCitizen)
- Copy of payment receipt (M-Pesa or bank)
- Parent/Guardian consent letter (for minors)
Specific Requirements:
For First-Time Applicants:
- Birth certificate
- Parents’ National ID copies
For Lost Passport Replacement:
- Police abstract
- Affidavit from a Commissioner for Oaths
For Diplomatic Passport:
- Official letter from the Ministry of Foreign Affairs
Comparison of Processing Times for Different Passport Types
| Passport Type | Processing Time | Remarks |
|---|---|---|
| Ordinary Passport | 10-15 working days | Includes 34, 50, and 66-page types |
| Temporary Passport | 1-3 working days | For East Africa travel only |
| Diplomatic Passport | 10-15 working days | Requires clearance from MOFA |
| Lost Passport Replacement | 15-20 working days | Additional verification required |
FAQs: How to Apply for a Passport in Kenya
1. How do I apply for a passport in Kenya?
To apply for a passport in Kenya, visit the official eCitizen portal (eCitizen) and create an account or log in. Fill in the online application form, upload required documents such as your birth certificate, and pay the processing fee. After completing the application, book an appointment at the nearest Huduma Centre to submit biometric data and finalize your application.
2. What is the cost of applying for a passport in Kenya in 2025?
The cost of applying for a passport in Kenya varies depending on the type of passport and the processing time. For a standard 32-page passport, it costs around Ksh 4,550, while the 48-page passport costs approximately Ksh 6,050. Additional fees may apply for expedited processing or for specific passport types, such as diplomatic passports.
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3. Can I apply for a Kenyan passport online?
Yes, you can apply for a passport online through the eCitizen portal. The online process allows you to fill out the passport application form, upload necessary documents, and make payments electronically. However, you must visit a Huduma Centre to submit your biometric data and other documents.
4. How long does it take to apply for a passport in Kenya?
Typically, the processing time for a Kenyan passport is between 10 to 15 business days. However, depending on the type of passport (normal or expedited), the process may take longer or shorter. For example, the processing time for a diplomatic passport may take a bit longer due to the additional verification steps.
5. How much does it cost to apply for a temporary passport in Kenya?
A temporary passport, which is issued in urgent cases (e.g., for emergencies or to travel before your regular passport is issued), typically costs around Ksh 3,050. It is valid for a limited period, usually 1 year.
6. What documents are required to apply for a passport in Kenya?
To apply for a Kenyan passport, you will need the following documents:
- A valid National ID or Birth Certificate (for first-time applicants)
- Passport-sized photographs (as per specified guidelines)
- Payment receipt
- Proof of Kenyan citizenship
- For minors, you will need both parents’ identification and consent.
- For those applying for a replacement passport (e.g., due to loss), a police report is required.
7. Can I apply for a Kenyan passport without a birth certificate?
It is difficult to apply for a Kenyan passport without a birth certificate, especially for first-time applicants. The birth certificate serves as proof of Kenyan citizenship and identity. However, if you have lost your birth certificate, you can apply for a replacement through the Civil Registration Department.
8. How do I apply for a lost passport in Kenya?
If your passport is lost or stolen, you must report the loss to the police and obtain a police report. Afterward, visit the eCitizen portal, select the “Lost Passport” option, and follow the steps to apply for a replacement. You’ll need to provide the police report, identification documents, and payment.
9. How do I apply for a child’s passport in Kenya?
To apply for a child’s passport in Kenya, you must submit the child’s birth certificate, both parents’ national IDs or passports, and their consent. The application must be done online via the eCitizen platform, and biometric data will be collected at the Huduma Centre.
10. How do I apply for a diplomatic passport in Kenya?
A diplomatic passport is typically issued to individuals representing the government in official capacities. To apply, you must be nominated by the government. The application process is similar to that of regular passports but requires additional documentation from the government. Visit the eCitizen portal to begin the process and follow the specific requirements.
11. What are the requirements for the first-time passport application in Kenya?
For a first-time passport application in Kenya, you will need:
- A valid National ID (or a birth certificate if you’re under 18)
- Passport-sized photographs (with specifications)
- A valid email address for communication
- Proof of payment for the passport fee
- For minors: Both parents’ national IDs and consent.
You can find the application form and further details on the eCitizen portal.
12. How can I track my passport application status?
Once your passport application has been processed, you can track its status through the eCitizen platform. You will need to log in to your account and view the application’s progress. If approved, you will receive instructions on how to collect your passport.
13. Can non-citizens apply for a Kenyan passport?
Non-citizens are not eligible for a Kenyan passport unless they are legal residents who have acquired citizenship. If you are a foreigner applying for citizenship, you must go through the naturalization process before applying for a passport.
14. How to apply for a passport in Kenya for foreigners?
Foreign nationals living in Kenya who wish to apply for a passport must first acquire Kenyan citizenship through naturalization or by descent. After this, they can apply for a Kenyan passport following the same process as citizens, via the eCitizen portal.
15. Can I apply for a passport for my child if I’m a single parent in Kenya?
Yes, a single parent can apply for a child’s passport in Kenya, but they will need to provide the necessary documentation, including the child’s birth certificate, their own ID, and evidence of single parenthood (if applicable). Both parents’ consent is required, unless the other parent is deceased or unreachable.
