March 21, 2024

The Ultimate Guide to Passport Application in Kenya

Introduction

Applying for a passport in Kenya can seem like a daunting task, but it doesn't have to be. Whether you're a first-time applicant or renewing an old passport, understanding the process can save you time and stress. This guide is designed to provide you with a comprehensive overview of the passport application process in Kenya, from initial registration to collecting your passport. By the end of this article, you'll be well-equipped to navigate the entire procedure with ease.

With Kenya being a popular destination for both tourism and business, having a passport is essential for anyone planning to travel abroad. This guide is particularly useful for lawyers, law students, justice seekers, and small business owners who may need to travel for various reasons. Let's dive into the step-by-step process of applying for a passport in Kenya.

For additional legal guidance and support, consider exploring M-Wakili, a platform that offers free legal advice and assistance with various legal processes in Kenya.

Step-by-Step Guide to Registering on eCitizen

The first step in applying for a passport in Kenya is to register on the eCitizen portal. The eCitizen platform is the Kenyan government's official online gateway to all government services, including passport applications.

Registering on eCitizen

Visit the eCitizen Website: Go to eCitizen and click on the "Sign Up" button.
Create an Account: Fill in your personal details, including your National ID number, first name, last name, and email address. Create a password and click "Continue."
Verify Your Account: You'll receive a verification email. Click on the link provided to verify your account.
Log In: Once your account is verified, log in using your email and password.

Navigating to the Passport Application Section

Select Immigration Services: After logging in, click on the "Department of Immigration Services" tab.
Choose Passport Services: Select "Passport Application" from the list of services.
Read the Instructions: Carefully read through the instructions provided before proceeding to the application form.

Filling Out the Passport Application Form

Once you've registered on eCitizen, the next step is to fill out the passport application form. This is a crucial step, and it's essential to provide accurate information to avoid any delays or issues with your application.

Completing the Application Form

Personal Details: Enter your personal information, including your full name, date of birth, gender, and place of birth.
Contact Information: Provide your current address, phone number, and email address.
Parents' Details: Fill in the names, nationalities, and ID numbers of your parents.
Type of Passport: Choose the type of passport you are applying for (e.g., Ordinary, Diplomatic, or East African Passport).
Upload Photos: Upload recent passport-sized photographs that meet the specified requirements.

Reviewing and Submitting the Form

Review Your Information: Double-check all the details you've entered to ensure they are accurate.
Submit the Form: Once you're satisfied with the information, click on the "Submit" button to proceed.

For more detailed information on the application process, you can refer to Kenya's Department of Immigration Services.

Required Documents for Passport Application

Gathering the required documents is a critical part of the passport application process. Having all the necessary documents ready will ensure a smooth and efficient application process.

Essential Documents

Original Birth Certificate and a Copy: This is required to verify your identity and citizenship.
National ID Card and a Copy: Both the original and a photocopy are needed.
Three Recent Passport-Sized Photos: These should meet the specific requirements outlined in the application instructions.
Recommender’s ID Card Copy: A copy of the ID card of a recommender who can vouch for your identity.
Consent Letter for Minors: If you are applying for a minor, a consent letter from the parents or guardians is required.
Old Passport (for renewals): If you are renewing your passport, you need to submit your old passport.

Additional Documents for Specific Cases

Parents' National ID Cards and Copies: Required if you are applying for a minor.
Marriage Certificate: If applicable, to verify changes in personal details.

Ensure that all documents are up-to-date and meet the specified requirements to avoid any delays in the application process.

Submitting Your Application

After filling out the application form and gathering the required documents, the next step is to submit your application. This involves physically submitting the documents at designated immigration offices and undergoing a verification process.

Submission Process

Print the Application Form: After submitting the form online, print the completed application form and three application receipts.
Visit the Immigration Office: Take the printed form, receipts, and all required documents to the nearest immigration office (e.g., Nyayo House in Nairobi, Mombasa, or Kisumu).
Document Verification: At the immigration office, your documents will be verified by an officer.
Biometric Data Capture: Your fingerprints and photo will be taken as part of the biometric data capture process.
Receive an Acknowledgment: Once your application is verified and accepted, you will receive an acknowledgment receipt.

For more detailed guidelines, you can check out the Kenya Electronic System for Travel Authorisation.

Payment Methods and Fees

Paying the passport application fee is a crucial step in the process. The eCitizen platform offers various payment methods to make this step convenient for applicants.

Payment Methods

Mobile Money: You can pay using mobile money services like M-Pesa.
Credit/Debit Cards: Payments can be made using credit or debit cards.
Online Banking: Some local banks offer online banking options for payment.

Fee Structure

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 that you select the correct payment option and pay the exact amount to avoid any issues with your application.

Tracking Your Passport Application Status

Once you have submitted your application and paid the required fees, you can track the status of your passport application online.

How to Track Your Application

Log in to eCitizen: Go to the eCitizen portal and log in using your credentials.
Navigate to Immigration Services: Click on the "Department of Immigration Services" tab.
Check Application Status: Select "Passport Application" and click on "Track Application" to see the current status of your application.

You can also contact the immigration offices for updates if you encounter any issues while tracking your application online.

Collection of Your Passport

Once your passport is ready, you will need to collect it from the immigration office where you submitted your application.

Collection Process

Notification: You will receive a notification via SMS or email when your passport is ready for collection.
Visit the Immigration Office: Go to the immigration office with your acknowledgment receipt and original ID.
Collect Your Passport: Present your documents to the officer in charge, who will verify your identity and hand over your passport.

It's essential to collect your passport promptly to avoid any potential issues or delays.

Frequently Asked Questions

What is the processing time for a passport application in Kenya?

The processing time typically takes 10 working days for first-time applications and 5 working days for other types. However, it can take longer if additional information is needed or if the application hasn't been filled out correctly.

Can I apply for a passport online?

Yes, you can apply for a passport online through the eCitizen portal.

What should I do if I lose my passport?

If you lose your passport, you need to report it to the nearest police station and obtain a police abstract. You can then apply for a replacement passport through the eCitizen portal.

How much does it cost to renew a passport?

The cost of renewing a passport varies depending on the type of passport. For instance, renewing an Ordinary "A" Series passport costs Kshs. 4,550.

Can minors apply for a passport?

Yes, minors can apply for a passport. However, they require a consent letter from their parents or guardians, as well as copies of their parents' national ID cards.

Conclusion

Applying for a passport in Kenya is a straightforward process if you follow the correct steps and ensure that all required documents are in order. From registering on eCitizen to collecting your passport, this guide covers everything you need to know to navigate the process smoothly. Whether you're a lawyer, law student, justice seeker, or small business owner, having a valid passport is essential for your travel needs.

For more detailed legal advice and assistance, consider exploring M-Wakili, a platform that offers free legal support and resources.

By following the steps outlined in this guide, you'll be well on your way to successfully obtaining your passport and embarking on your next adventure. Safe travels!

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