September 15, 2023
How to Apply for a Passport on www.ecitizen.go.ke
Introduction
Applying for a passport in Kenya has never been easier, thanks to the eCitizen portal. This online platform simplifies the process, saving you time and hassle. Whether you're a lawyer, law student, justice seeker, or small business owner, understanding how to navigate this system is crucial. In this blog post, we'll guide you step-by-step through the entire process of applying for a passport on www.ecitizen.go.ke.
The convenience of online application means you no longer need to deal with long queues or multiple trips to immigration offices. Instead, you can complete most of the process from the comfort of your home or office. Let's dive in and explore how you can successfully apply for your Kenyan passport using the eCitizen portal.
Table of Contents
- Introduction
- Step-by-Step Guide to Register on eCitizen
- Filling Out the Passport Application Form
- Documents Required for Passport Application
- Payment Methods and Fees
Step-by-Step Guide to Register on eCitizen
The first step to applying for a passport is to register on the eCitizen portal. Here’s a detailed guide on how to do it:
- Visit the eCitizen Website: Go to www.ecitizen.go.ke.
- Create an Account: Click on the "Sign Up" button if you don’t already have an account. You will need your National ID number and a working email address.
- Fill in Your Details: Provide your full name, email address, and create a password. Make sure to use a strong password that you can remember.
- Verify Your Email: After filling in your details, you’ll receive a verification email. Click on the link to verify your email address.
- Log In: Once your email is verified, log in to your newly created eCitizen account.
Registering on eCitizen is straightforward and takes only a few minutes. Once registered, you can access various government services, including passport application.
Filling Out the Passport Application Form
After registering, the next step is to fill out the passport application form. Follow these steps:
- Log in to Your eCitizen Account: Use your credentials to log in.
- Navigate to the Immigration Department: Click on the "Department of Immigration Services" under the "Services" tab.
- Select Passport Application: Choose the type of passport application you want to make (new passport, renewal, replacement, etc.).
- Fill in the Application Form: Carefully fill out all the required details. Make sure the information is accurate to avoid delays.
Documents Required for Passport Application
When filling out the application form, you will need to upload several documents. These include:
- Original Birth Certificate and a Copy: This is mandatory for all applicants.
- National ID Card and a Copy: Required for applicants aged 18 and above.
- Three Passport-Sized Photos: These should be recent and meet the specified requirements.
- Recommender’s ID Card Copy: The recommender must be a Kenyan citizen with a valid ID card.
- Consent Letter for Minors: If the applicant is a minor, a consent letter from the parents or guardians is required.
Payment Methods and Fees
After filling out the application form, you’ll need to pay the passport application fees. The eCitizen portal offers various payment methods:
- Mobile Money: You can use M-Pesa to pay for your application.
- Credit/Debit Cards: Visa and MasterCard are accepted.
- Online Banking: Payments can also be made through online banking services from local banks.
The fees for different types of passports are as follows:
- 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
Submission and Biometric Capture
Once you’ve completed the application form and made the payment, it’s time to submit your application:
- Download and Print the Application Form: After payment, download and print the application form and the three payment receipts.
- Visit the Immigration Office: Submit the application form and receipts in person at one of the Immigration offices (Nyayo House, Mombasa, or Kisumu).
- Biometric Capture: During submission, your biometric data (fingerprints and photo) will be captured. Make sure to bring all the required original documents for verification.
Tracking Your Application Status
After submitting your application, you can track its status online:
- Log in to Your eCitizen Account: Use your credentials to log in.
- Navigate to the Immigration Department: Click on the "Department of Immigration Services" under the "Services" tab.
- Check Application Status: Click on "Track Application" to view the current status of your passport application.
Frequently Asked Questions
How long does it take to process a passport application?
It typically takes about 10 working days to process a new passport application once your form has been physically submitted at the Immigration offices. For renewal or replacement, it usually takes about 5 working days.
What should I do if I lose my passport?
If you lose your passport, you’ll need to provide a police report, an affidavit explaining the loss, and a copy of your birth certificate. The fee for a lost passport is Kshs. 12,050.
Can I apply for a passport online if I’m outside Kenya?
Yes, you can apply for a passport online through the eCitizen portal even if you are outside Kenya. However, you will need to visit the nearest Kenyan Embassy or Consulate for biometric capture.
Is a recommender necessary for a passport application?
Yes, a recommender is necessary. The recommender must be a Kenyan citizen with a valid passport or National ID card and should not be a relative.
Can minors apply for a passport?
Yes, minors can apply for a passport. They will need a consent letter from their parents or guardians and copies of their parents' National ID cards.
Conclusion
Applying for a passport in Kenya through the eCitizen portal is a straightforward and efficient process. By following the steps outlined in this guide, you can successfully complete your application with ease. Remember to ensure all your documents are in order and that the information provided is accurate to avoid any delays.
For more legal advice and assistance, visit MWakili, your go-to source for legal information and support in Kenya. Whether you're a lawyer, law student, justice seeker, or small business owner, MWakili has the resources you need.
Feel free to share this guide with others who might find it helpful. Safe travels!
For detailed guidance on other legal matters, you can always explore more resources on MWakili.