September 15, 2023
How to Apply for a Passport in Kenya: A Quick Start Guide
Introduction
Applying for a passport in Kenya doesn't have to be a daunting task. Imagine planning your dream vacation or an important business trip, only to be held back by the lack of a passport. This guide will help you breeze through the process, providing you with all the necessary steps and requirements to secure your travel document. Whether you are a first-time applicant or renewing your passport, this comprehensive guide will make the journey smoother.
Applying for a passport is a critical step for anyone planning to travel internationally. In Kenya, the process is streamlined through an online platform, making it more accessible to all applicants. Here, we’ll walk you through everything from creating an eCitizen account to tracking and collecting your passport.
Table of Contents
- Introduction
- Pre-Application Checklist
- Creating an eCitizen Account
- Filling the Online Application Form
- Document Requirements
- Payment Options
Pre-Application Checklist
Before you dive into the application process, it’s essential to gather all necessary documents and information. This will save you time and ensure a smooth process. Here are the key items you’ll need:
- National Identification Card (ID): Ensure your ID is valid and up-to-date.
- Birth Certificate: An original birth certificate and a photocopy are required.
- Passport-sized Photos: Three recent passport-sized photos.
- Recommender’s ID: A copy of the ID of your recommender.
- Parents’ IDs: Copies of your parents' IDs if you are a minor.
- Old Passport: If you are renewing, bring your old passport.
Having these documents ready will expedite your application process and reduce the chances of delays.
Creating an eCitizen Account
The first step in the passport application process is creating an account on the eCitizen platform. This platform is the gateway to all government services in Kenya, including passport applications.
- Visit the eCitizen Website: Go to eCitizen.
- Register an Account: Click on "Create an Account" and fill in the required details. You will need your ID number and a valid email address.
- Activate Your Account: After registration, an activation link will be sent to your email. Click on the link to activate your account.
- Log In: Once activated, log in to your eCitizen account.
Creating an account is straightforward and takes only a few minutes. This account will be used for all your future interactions with the Kenyan government’s digital services.
Filling the Online Application Form
Once your eCitizen account is set up, the next step is to fill out the online application form. This form is crucial as it gathers all the necessary information required for your passport.
- Access the Application Form: Log in to your eCitizen account and navigate to the Department of Immigration Services.
- Fill in Personal Details: Provide your full name, date of birth, and other personal information as required.
- Upload Required Documents: Scan and upload the necessary documents such as your ID, birth certificate, and photos.
Document Requirements
The following documents are mandatory for the application process:
- Original Birth Certificate and a photocopy.
- National ID Card and a copy.
- Three Passport-sized Photos
- Recommender’s ID Copy
- Consent Letter: For minors, a consent letter from parents or legal guardians.
Payment Options
After filling out the form, you will need to pay the passport application fee. The fees vary depending on the type of passport:
- 32 Pages Ordinary "A" Series: Kshs. 4,550
- 48 Pages Ordinary "B" Series: Kshs. 6,050
- 64 Pages Ordinary "C" Series: Kshs. 7,550
Payment can be made via mobile money, credit/debit cards, or online banking. Ensure you print the payment receipt as it will be required during submission.
Submitting the Application
After completing the form and making the payment, the next step is to submit your application.
- Print the Application Form: After payment, download and print the application form and three application receipts.
- Visit Immigration Offices: Submit the printed form and receipts in person at the immigration offices in Nairobi (Nyayo House), Mombasa, or Kisumu.
- Biometric Capture: During submission, your biometric data (fingerprints and photo) will be captured.
Ensure you carry all original documents for verification during submission. The submission process is quick, but it’s advisable to go early to avoid long queues.
Tracking and Collecting Your Passport
After submission, the processing of your passport takes about 10 working days for first-time applications and 5 working days for renewals. You can track the status of your application online through your eCitizen account.
- Log in to eCitizen: Check the status of your application under the Immigration Services section.
- Collection Notification: Once your passport is ready, you will receive a notification via SMS or email.
- Collect Your Passport: Visit the immigration office where you submitted your application to collect your passport.
Remember to carry your ID and the acknowledgment receipt when collecting your passport.
Frequently Asked Questions
What are the costs associated with applying for a passport in Kenya?
The costs vary based on the type of passport. For instance, a 32-page ordinary passport costs Kshs. 4,550, while a 64-page passport costs Kshs. 7,550.
How long does it take to process a passport application in Kenya?
The processing time is approximately 10 working days for first-time applications and 5 working days for renewals.
Can I apply for a passport if I have lost my National ID?
No, you must have a valid National ID to apply for a passport. If lost, you should first apply for a replacement ID.
Is it possible to expedite the passport application process?
Currently, there is no official expedited process. However, ensuring all your documents are in order can help avoid delays.
What should I do if I make a mistake on my application form?
If you realize a mistake after submission, you should visit the immigration office as soon as possible to rectify the error.
Conclusion
Applying for a passport in Kenya is a straightforward process when you know the steps involved and have all the necessary documents. From creating an eCitizen account to tracking your application, this guide provides all the information you need to ensure a smooth application process. For more detailed legal advice related to travel documents or other legal matters, consider exploring M-Wakili, a platform offering free legal advice in Kenya.
By following these steps, you’ll be well on your way to obtaining your passport and embarking on your next adventure or business trip with peace of mind. Safe travels!