September 28, 2023

Frequently Asked Questions About Passport Application in Kenya

Introduction

Applying for a passport can often feel like navigating a labyrinth, replete with forms, documents, and procedures. Especially in Kenya, where the process involves several steps and strict adherence to guidelines, it's easy to get overwhelmed. Whether you're a lawyer, law student, justice seeker, or small business owner, this blog post will provide you with a comprehensive guide to address your most pressing questions about applying for a passport in Kenya.

In this article, we'll cover the essential documents you'll need, the costs involved, where to submit your application, the processing time, and how to track your application status. Additionally, we'll discuss what to do if your passport is lost or mutilated. Let's dive in and make this process simpler for you!

What Documents Do I Need?
How Much Does It Cost?
Where Can I Submit My Application?
How Long Does It Take to Process?
How to Track Your Application Status
What to Do If Your Passport Is Lost or Mutilated
Conclusion
Frequently Asked Questions

What Documents Do I Need?

Applying for a passport in Kenya requires a specific set of documents. Ensuring you have all the necessary paperwork will help you avoid delays and complications.

eCitizen Pre-filled Passport Application Form: This form is available on the eCitizen website. Fill it out accurately and print it.
Original Birth Certificate and Photocopy: This serves as proof of your place and date of birth.
Original National ID Card & Copy: Crucial for verifying your identity.
Three Current Passport Size Photos: Make sure these are recent and meet the specified dimensions.
Recommender’s ID Card Copy: A copy of the ID of the person recommending you.
Consent Letter for Minors: If you’re applying for a minor, a consent letter from the parent or guardian is required.
Old Passport for Replacement: If you're renewing or replacing an old passport, bring it along.
Parents’ National ID Cards and Copies: Required for minors and first-time applicants to verify parental information.

For a complete list of requirements, you may refer to the Directorate of Immigration Services.

How Much Does It Cost?

The cost of applying for a passport in Kenya varies based on the type of passport you are applying for. Below are the different categories and their respective fees:

32 Pages Ordinary "A" Series: Kshs. 4,550
48 Pages Ordinary "B" Series: Kshs. 6,050
64 Pages Ordinary "C" Series: Kshs. 7,550
East African Passport: Kshs. 990
Diplomatic Passport (48 pages): Kshs. 7,550
Mutilated Passport: Kshs. 10,050
Lost Passport: Kshs. 12,050

Ensure you make the payment through the eCitizen portal using mobile money, credit/debit cards, or online banking from local banks.

Where Can I Submit My Application?

Once you've filled out your application form and gathered all necessary documents, you will need to submit them in person at designated immigration offices. The main offices are:

Nyayo House, Nairobi
Mombasa Office
Kisumu Office

Ensure you carry all the original documents along with the printed application form and receipts. For more detailed information, check out the passport application process on the Kenya Embassy Washington D.C. website.

How Long Does It Take to Process?

The processing time for a passport in Kenya can vary. Generally, it takes about 10 working days for the first-time application after submitting the form at the Immigration offices. For other types of applications, it should take at least 5 working days. However, it can take longer if more information is needed or if the application hasn’t been filled out correctly.

It's advisable not to book any travel plans until you have your passport in hand to avoid any risks associated with delays.

How to Track Your Application Status

Tracking the status of your passport application is straightforward. You can do so through the eCitizen platform. Log in to your account, navigate to the 'Dashboard,' and click on 'Track Application Status.' This will provide you with real-time updates on the progress of your application.

What to Do If Your Passport Is Lost or Mutilated

Losing your passport or having it mutilated can be stressful, but the process for replacement is well-defined.

Lost Passport: You will need to provide a police report, an affidavit, and a personal letter explaining the circumstances of the loss. The fee for replacing a lost passport is Kshs. 12,050.
Mutilated Passport: If your passport is damaged, you must submit the original damaged passport and pay a replacement fee of Kshs. 10,050.

For detailed steps on replacing a lost or mutilated passport, you can visit the eCitizen portal.

Conclusion

Applying for a passport in Kenya involves several steps, but with the right information, the process can be straightforward. By ensuring you have all the necessary documents, understanding the costs involved, and knowing where to submit your application, you can avoid common pitfalls and delays. Remember to track your application status and know what to do in case of loss or damage to your passport.

For more legal advice and assistance with your passport application, consider exploring M-Wakili, a platform that offers free legal advice and comprehensive guidance on various legal matters in Kenya.

Frequently Asked Questions

1. What are the costs associated with registering an LLC in Kenya?

The costs include name reservation fees, registration fees, and any additional legal fees if you engage a lawyer. For a detailed breakdown, visit this page.

2. How long does it take to register an LLC in Kenya?

The registration process typically takes 7-14 days, depending on the completeness of your documentation and the workload at the Registrar of Companies.

3. Can a foreigner register an LLC in Kenya?

Yes, foreigners can register an LLC in Kenya. However, they must comply with specific requirements, such as having a local registered office and possibly appointing a local director.

4. What does the eCitizen platform offer?

eCitizen is a gateway to various government services in Kenya, including passport applications, business registration, and more. For detailed services, visit the eCitizen website.

5. How can M-Wakili assist with legal matters?

M-Wakili offers free legal advice, research, answers, and analysis on any legal topic, 24/7. It's a valuable tool for lawyers, law students, and the general public for navigating the complexities of Kenyan law. For more information, visit M-Wakili.

Feel free to explore these resources and ensure your passport application process in Kenya is as smooth as possible.