January 15, 2023

The Cost of Getting a Passport in Kenya: A Guide for Law Students

Introduction

Obtaining a passport is an essential step for many, whether for travel, study, or professional opportunities abroad. However, the costs associated with getting a passport in Kenya can be a point of concern, especially for law students who are navigating their way through academic and professional landscapes. This guide aims to provide a detailed breakdown of the costs involved in obtaining various types of passports in Kenya, the application process, and additional fees that you might encounter. Understanding these aspects can help you plan better and avoid any unexpected financial setbacks.

With the right information, you can streamline your application process and ensure that you have all the necessary documents and fees prepared. This guide will walk you through everything you need to know about the costs of getting a passport in Kenya.

Overview of Passport Types in Kenya
Cost Analysis of Ordinary Passports
Cost Analysis of Diplomatic Passports
Application Process and Associated Costs
Step-by-Step Guide for Application
Additional Costs to Consider
Frequently Asked Questions
Conclusion

Overview of Passport Types in Kenya

Kenya offers several types of passports depending on the purpose of travel and the individual's status. The most common types are the Ordinary Passport, Diplomatic Passport, and the East African Passport.

Ordinary Passport: This is the most common type of passport issued to Kenyan citizens. It is used for general travel purposes, including tourism, business, and study.

Diplomatic Passport: This passport is issued to Kenyan government officials and diplomats. It provides certain privileges and immunities while traveling for official duties.

East African Passport: This passport allows for easier travel within the East African Community (EAC) countries. It is a convenient option for those who frequently travel within the region.

Understanding the different types of passports available can help you decide which one best suits your needs and budget.

Cost Analysis of Ordinary Passports

The cost of obtaining an Ordinary Passport in Kenya varies depending on the number of pages and the urgency of the application. Here is a breakdown of the costs:

32 Pages Ordinary "A" Series: Kshs. 4,550
48 Pages Ordinary "B" Series: Kshs. 6,050
64 Pages Ordinary "C" Series: Kshs. 7,550

These costs cover the application processing fees, but additional fees may apply for expedited services or replacements of lost or mutilated passports.

For law students, it's important to budget for these costs in advance, especially if you plan to travel for internships, moot court competitions, or study abroad programs.

Cost Analysis of Diplomatic Passports

Diplomatic Passports have a different cost structure due to the nature of their use. The fees are as follows:

48 Pages Diplomatic Passport: Kshs. 7,550

It's important to note that Diplomatic Passports are typically issued at no cost to the individual, as they are provided by the government for official duties. However, if you are a law student pursuing a career in diplomacy, understanding these costs can be beneficial for future reference.

Application Process and Associated Costs

The application process for obtaining a passport in Kenya involves several steps, each with its associated costs. Here is a detailed look at the process:

Online Application: The first step is to fill out the passport application form online through the eCitizen portal. This involves creating an account and selecting the type of passport you wish to apply for.
Payment of Fees: After completing the application form, you will be required to pay the application fee. Payment can be made through mobile money, credit/debit cards, or online banking.
Submission of Documents: Once the payment is made, you need to print the application form and receipts. You will also need to gather the necessary documents, including your original birth certificate, national ID card, and passport-sized photos.
Appointment and Biometric Capture: Schedule an appointment at the nearest immigration office for biometric capture. This involves fingerprinting and taking your photograph.
Passport Collection: After the processing period, which typically takes about 10 working days, you can collect your passport from the immigration office.

Step-by-Step Guide for Application

Register on eCitizen: Visit eCitizen and create an account.
Fill Out Application Form: Select the passport application form and fill it out with accurate information.
Pay the Application Fee: Choose your preferred payment method and pay the required fee.
Print Documents: Print the completed application form and payment receipts.
Gather Required Documents: Collect your original birth certificate, national ID card, and passport-sized photos.
Book an Appointment: Schedule an appointment for biometric capture at your nearest immigration office.
Attend Appointment: Go to the immigration office for biometric capture and submit your documents.
Collect Passport: After the processing period, collect your passport from the immigration office.

Additional Costs to Consider

Apart from the standard application fees, there are additional costs that you might incur during the passport application process:

Expedited Services: If you need your passport urgently, you may have to pay an additional fee for expedited processing.
Replacement Fees: In case of a lost or mutilated passport, the replacement fees are higher. For a lost passport, the fee is Kshs. 12,050, while for a mutilated passport, it is Kshs. 10,050.
Travel Costs: Traveling to the immigration office for biometric capture and passport collection may also incur additional expenses.

For more detailed information on passport costs and application procedures, you can visit the Kenya Passport Application FAQ.

Frequently Asked Questions

1. How long does it take to get a passport in Kenya? The standard processing time for a passport in Kenya is about 10 working days. Expedited services are available at an additional cost.

2. Can I apply for a passport online? Yes, the initial application process can be completed online through the eCitizen portal. However, you will need to visit an immigration office for biometric capture.

3. What documents are required for a passport application? You will need your original birth certificate, national ID card, passport-sized photos, and the completed application form.

4. How much does it cost to replace a lost passport? The fee for replacing a lost passport is Kshs. 12,050.

5. Are there any additional fees for expedited services? Yes, expedited services are available at an additional cost. The exact fee depends on the urgency of the application.

Conclusion

Understanding the costs and process of obtaining a passport in Kenya is crucial for law students who may need to travel for academic or professional reasons. By being well-prepared and informed, you can ensure a smooth application process and avoid any unexpected expenses. Whether you're applying for an Ordinary Passport, Diplomatic Passport, or any other type, knowing the associated costs and procedures will help you plan better and make informed decisions.

For more information and legal advice, consider exploring M-Wakili, a platform that offers free legal advice and assistance with various legal processes, including passport applications.