How to Apply for a Kenyan Passport: A Clear Step-by-Step Guide

Why apply for a Kenyan passport

A passport is your official travel document and a key form of identification when you are outside Kenya. It is required for international travel, visa applications, and proving Kenyan citizenship. This guide explains how to apply, what documents you’ll need, and tips to avoid delays.

Who can apply

Eligibility by age and status

Kenyan citizens can apply for a passport. Applications are typically made by the applicant or a parent/guardian for minors. You’ll usually need to be present for biometrics; some categories may require additional permissions or official letters.

Types of passports available

Most applicants will apply for an ordinary passport. Government officials may apply for official or diplomatic passports, and Kenya has discussed or issued East African Community (EAC) passports for eligible citizens as part of regional travel integration.

How to apply

Step 1: Create or log in to eCitizen

Most Kenyan passport applications start online via the eCitizen platform. Create an account or log in, then navigate to the passport services.

Step 2: Gather documents

Prepare your identity documents, birth certificate or age verification, a recent passport photo that meets specifications, your previous passport if renewing, and any supporting documents for name changes or special situations.

Step 3: Complete the application and book biometrics

Fill out the online application form accurately. Schedule a biometrics appointment at a designated passport issuance center.

Step 4: Pay fees

Pay the applicable passport fee through the eCitizen portal or other approved payment methods. Keep the receipt as you will need it for processing and collection.

Step 5: Biometrics and processing

Attend the biometrics appointment for photo capture and fingerprinting. After submission, processing times vary; you’ll be notified when the passport is ready for collection.

Required documents for an ordinary passport

• Kenyan ID card (ID) or other valid Kenyan travel document
• Birth certificate or age verification
• One or more recent passport photographs (as specified by the service)
• Previous Kenyan passport (for renewals)
• Appointment letter or confirmation page
• Any name-change documents (marriage certificate, court order), if applicable
• Any other documents requested by the issuing authority

Special cases: minors, renewals, lost passport

• Minors: consent from parent/guardian, child’s birth certificate, parent/guardian IDs
• Renewals: present previous passport and updated photos if required
• Lost or stolen passport: report to authorities and provide police or incident report if requested, along with replacement documents

Tips to smooth the process

• Check photo spec precisely (size, background, expression)
• Ensure names and dates match your IDs
• Bring valid ID and appointment confirmation on the day of biometrics
• Track your application status in the eCitizen portal
• Be aware of processing times and plan travel accordingly

Where to apply and how to collect

Applications are submitted online via eCitizen, with biometrics at an immigration services center. When the passport is ready, collect it in person at the designated center or collection point, bringing your ID and the collection notice.