Applying for a Kenyan passport has become easier following the government’s shift to digital services through the eCitizen platform.
The process is now done online, allowing applicants to fill forms, upload documents, pay fees, and book appointments digitally before visiting immigration offices for biometric capture.
However, applicants are still required to physically present themselves at designated immigration centres for fingerprint and photo capture before the passport can be processed.
Creating an eCitizen Account
The first step in applying for a passport is registering an account on the eCitizen Portal.
Applicants are required to sign up using their Kenyan National ID number, email address, and phone number. Those who already have accounts can simply log in using their credentials.
After logging in, users should navigate to the Department of Immigration Services section and select “Make Application.”
Applicants can then choose either:
- Passport Application (Adult)
- Passport Application (Child)
Filling the Passport Application Form
Applicants are required to complete Form 19 online by providing:
- Personal information
- Parents’ details
- Next-of-kin information
- Contact details
The application also requires uploading scanned copies of supporting documents in PNG or JPEG format.
Required documents include:
- Original National ID card and copy
- Birth certificate and copy
- Copy of recommender’s ID card
- Three passport-size photographs
- Old passport for replacement cases
- Parents’ ID copies for minors
The government requires every passport application to be recommended by a Kenyan citizen.
Passport Application Fees
Applicants must pay passport fees online through M-Pesa, debit or credit card, or other approved payment methods available on the platform.
Current passport charges are:
- 34-page passport – KSh 7,550
- 50-page passport – KSh 9,550
- 66-page passport – KSh 12,050
After payment, applicants are advised to print the completed application form and three copies of the payment invoice or receipt.
Booking Biometric Appointment
Once the online process is completed, applicants must schedule a biometric appointment at an immigration office.
Available centres include:
- Nairobi
- Mombasa
- Kisumu
- Eldoret
- Nakuru
- Embu
- Kisii
- Kericho
- Bungoma
During the appointment, immigration officers capture fingerprints, photographs, and verify submitted documents.
Applicants with urgent travel needs are encouraged to inform officers during biometric submission.
Tracking and Collecting the Passport
After biometrics are taken, applicants can monitor the progress of their passport application through their eCitizen account.
Once ready, the Department of Immigration Services sends an SMS notification informing applicants when and where to collect the passport.
Authorities have advised Kenyans to ensure all information entered during the application process is accurate to avoid delays or rejection.
