How Foreigners Can Apply for a Kenyan Passport: Requirements and Fees

A Kenyan passport is one of the most powerful travel documents in East Africa, allowing visa-free or visa-on-arrival access to several countries.

However, foreign nationals cannot directly apply for a Kenyan passport unless they first become Kenyan citizens.

Under Kenyan law, passports are issued strictly to citizens, either by birth or by registration.

What foreigners need to know about eligibility, requirements, and fees.

Can a Foreigner Apply for a Kenyan Passport?

According to the Directorate of Immigration Services, only Kenyan citizens qualify for a Kenyan passport.

Foreign nationals living in Kenya, including permanent residents, work permit holders, or investors, must first acquire Kenyan citizenship before becoming eligible to apply for a passport.

Also Read: How to Apply for a New Kenyan Passport

How Foreigners Can Become Eligible

A foreigner can apply for Kenyan citizenship through registration under the provisions of the Directorate of Immigration Services and the Constitution of Kenya (2010).

The most common pathways include:

1. Citizenship by Registration (Naturalisation)

A foreign national who has lawfully resided in Kenya for at least seven years may apply for citizenship by registration, provided they:

• Have held a valid immigration status,
• Demonstrate good character,
• Intend to continue residing in Kenya,
• Meet language and integration requirements.

2. Citizenship Through Marriage

A foreigner married to a Kenyan citizen for at least seven years may apply for citizenship by registration, subject to proof of marriage and lawful residency.

3. Stateless Persons and Special Categories

Certain stateless persons and long-term migrants may also qualify under specific constitutional provisions.

Once citizenship is approved and a Kenyan national ID is issued, the individual can proceed to apply for a passport.

Kenyan Passport Application Process

Applications are submitted online via the eCitizen platform.

Steps include:

• Create or log into an eCitizen account.
• Fill out the passport application form.
• Pay the required fee online.
• Book a biometric appointment.
• Present original documents at a passport office.

Required Documents

For newly registered citizens, the requirements include:

• Kenyan national ID card,
• Kenyan birth certificate (if applicable),
• Citizenship registration certificate,
• Recommender’s ID copy,
• Payment receipt from eCitizen,
• Passport-size photographs.

Additional documents may be required depending on the applicant’s circumstances.

Also Read: Ballots Under Siege: Why Goonism and Voter Suppression Threaten Kenya’s Democracy

Passport Fees in Kenya

The fees for ordinary Kenyan passports are:

34 Pages (A Series): KSh 7,550

50 Pages (B Series): KSh 9,550

66 Pages (C Series): KSh 12,050

Diplomatic Passport: KSh 15,050

Fees are paid through the eCitizen portal and are subject to change.

Important Clarification

Foreigners who do not qualify for citizenship cannot obtain a Kenyan passport.

However, in rare cases, certain non-citizens may be issued a Certificate of Identity or temporary travel document but this is not equivalent to a Kenyan passport.

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Nyayo House where passport services are offered by the Directorate of Immigration Services
PHOTO/File