How to Apply for a New Kenyan Passport

Kenyans seeking a new passport must complete their applications through the Directorate of Immigration Services under the Ministry of Interior and National Administration.

They first apply online before appearing in person for mandatory biometric registration.

Applicants begin by visiting the official eCitizen platform and creating an account or logging in, then select the immigration services section to access passport application services.

After logging in, applicants fill out Form 19 on the portal. The system collects personal details and other information required for passport processing.

Once they complete the form, they proceed to payment using mobile money, bank cards, or online banking.

The system then generates an application form and payment receipt, which applicants must print.

Passport Application Fees

The cost of a Kenyan passport depends on the number of pages selected. According to the Directorate of Immigration Services, applicants pay:

• 34-page passport – KSh 7,550
• 50-page passport – KSh 9,550
• 66-page passport – KSh 12,050

However, recent updates indicate that applicants may now only access the 66-page ordinary “C” series passport, making it the standard option for new applications at a cost of about KSh 12,050–12,500, depending on system updates and service charges.

Also Read: Govt Explains Why it Issued Passports to Sudan’s RSF Rebel Group Leaders

Booking and Submission Process

After payment, applicants book an appointment and select a passport processing centre.

Available centres include Nairobi (Nyayo House), Mombasa, Kisumu, Nakuru, Eldoret, Embu, Kisii, Kericho, and Bungoma.

Applicants then visit the selected centre on their appointment date to complete the process in person.

Immigration officers capture fingerprints, take a digital photograph and also verify all submitted documents against the application details.

Passport Required Documents

Applicants must present both originals and copies of the following documents:

• Printed the eCitizen application form and payment receipts
• National Identification Card
• Birth certificate
• Copies of parents’ national identification documents, where applicable
• Recent passport-size photographs with a white background

Depending on individual cases, officers may request additional supporting documents.

Also Read: Kenyan Passport Strengthens Globally Despite Controversy Over Issuance to Foreigners

Tracking and Collection

Applicants do not need to guess when their passports are ready, as they can track progress through their eCitizen dashboard.

The system also sends SMS notifications once the passport has been printed and is ready for collection at the selected centre.

Applicants must physically collect their passports from the immigration office they selected during the application.

Processing Timeline

A standard Kenyan ePassport takes about 10 to 15 working days to be processed and printed after an applicant completes biometric capture and submits all required documents.

However, timelines may vary depending on verification checks, application volume, or additional document requirements.

Applicants are advised to track their application regularly and ensure their contact details remain active to receive timely updates.

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Immigration Principal Secretary Belio Kipsang at a past event. PHOTO/ Nation Media Group