How to Apply for a Kenyan Passport Online (2025 Guide)

The process of applying for a Kenyan passport has been simplified with the eCitizen portal, allowing applicants to complete most steps online. Whether you’re applying for a new passport, renewal, or replacement, this guide provides a step-by-step breakdown of the application process, required documents, passport types, fees, and processing times.

Types of Kenyan Passports

Before applying, it’s important to know which type of passport you need:

1. Ordinary Passport (Blue Cover) – Issued to general citizens for international travel.
2. Diplomatic Passport (Red Cover) – Issued to government officials and diplomats.
3. Service Passport (Green Cover) – Issued to government employees traveling for official duties.
4. East African Passport – A regional passport for travel within Kenya, Uganda, Rwanda, Burundi, and Tanzania.

Who Can Apply for a Kenyan Passport?

You must meet the following criteria:

✅ Be a Kenyan citizen by birth, registration, or naturalization.
✅ Have a valid National ID (for adults) or Birth Certificate (for minors under 18).
✅ Provide supporting documents such as a previous passport (for renewals) or a police abstract (for lost passports).

Step-by-Step Guide to Applying for a Kenyan Passport Online

Step 1: Register on the eCitizen Portal

To apply online, you must have an eCitizen account:

1. Visit eCitizen Kenya.
2. Click “Create an Account” (if you don’t have one).
3. Choose “Kenyan Citizen” and enter your details:
   • National ID Number
   • First and Last Name
   • Email Address
   • Mobile Number
4. Verify your account and log in.

Step 2: Access the Immigration Department Portal

Once logged in:

1. Click on “Department of Immigration Services”.
2. Select “Passport Application” and choose your application type:
   • New Passport
   • Renewal
   • Lost or Damaged Passport Replacement

Step 3: Fill Out the Passport Application Form

Enter the required details, including:

✅ Personal Information (Name, Date of Birth, Gender)
✅ Parent/Guardian Details
✅ Current Address and Contact Information
✅ Previous Passport Details (if applicable)
✅ Emergency Contact

Step 4: Upload Required Documents

Attach clear scanned copies of the following:

📌 National ID (for adults) or Birth Certificate (for minors)
📌 Passport-size photos (2 recent colored photos)
📌 Payment receipt for passport fees
📌 Police Abstract (if replacing a lost passport)
📌 Duly filled and signed passport application form

Step 5: Pay the Passport Fees

After filling out the form, proceed to payment:

Payment Methods:
✅ M-Pesa Paybill (Business No. 222222)
✅ Debit/Credit Card
✅ Bank Deposit

Step 6: Book an Appointment for Biometrics

After payment, schedule an appointment for biometric capture (fingerprints and photo) at your nearest Immigration Office:

📍 Nairobi – Nyayo House
📍 Mombasa – Uhuru na Kazi Building
📍 Kisumu – New Provincial Headquarters
📍 Eldoret – Public Works Building
📍 Nakuru – Regional Immigration Office

What to Carry for the Appointment:
✔️ Original documents (ID, Birth Certificate)
✔️ Printed application form
✔️ Payment receipt
✔️ 2 passport-size photos

Step 7: Wait for Passport Processing

The processing time for a Kenyan passport varies:

🕒 Standard Processing: 10–15 working days
🕒 Express Service: 5–7 working days (available at an extra cost)

You can track your passport status via eCitizen or by sending an SMS with your application number to 2032.

Step 8: Collect Your Passport

Once ready, you will receive an SMS notification to collect your passport from the Immigration Office where you submitted your biometrics.

Required at Collection:
✅ National ID (Original)
✅ Application Receipt

Kenyan Passport Renewal Process

If your passport is expired or running out of pages, follow these steps for renewal:

1. Log in to eCitizen and select Passport Renewal.
2. Fill in your passport number, issue date, and personal details.
3. Upload a copy of your current passport and ID.
4. Pay the renewal fee based on the passport pages needed.
5. Book an appointment for biometric verification.
6. Wait for processing and collect your renewed passport.

Lost or Damaged Passport Replacement

If you lose your passport:

✅ Report to the nearest police station and obtain a Police Abstract.
✅ Apply for a passport replacement via eCitizen.
✅ Pay a replacement fee of KES 12,050.

Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)

1. How Long Does It Take to Get a Kenyan Passport?

The standard processing time is 10–15 working days, but delays may occur during peak periods.

2. Can I Track My Passport Application Online?

Yes! Log in to eCitizen, go to the Immigration Department, and check your application status.

3. Is There an Express Passport Service?

Yes, an express service (5–7 days) is available for an extra fee.

4. Can I Apply for a Passport Without a Birth Certificate?

No. A Birth Certificate is mandatory for first-time applicants.

Final Thoughts

Applying for a Kenyan passport in 2025 is now easier with the eCitizen online system. By following this guide, you can apply, pay, and track your passport application seamlessly.

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