How to Apply for a Kenyan Passport in 2025: Step-by-Step Guide 🇰🇪

Introduction

Getting a Kenyan passport is essential for travel, identity verification, and many legal and administrative processes. Whether you need a new one, renewing, replacing a lost or damaged passport, or updating details—this guide walks you through the **latest, official**, step-by-step process as of 2025, so you avoid delays and mistakes. Let’s dive in. 🌍

What Is the Kenyan ePassport?

• The Kenyan ePassport (electronic passport) is the standard passport issued to Kenyan citizens. It includes biometric features for enhanced security. The current version has been in use since September 2017. Valid for **10 years**. 🔒
• It comes in different “series” (32-pages, 48-pages, 64-pages) depending on your travel needs. More pages cost more. See the fee section below.

Who Is Eligible?

Before starting, ensure you meet eligibility criteria:

• You must be a Kenyan citizen.
• If over 18: you need a valid Kenyan national ID.
• If under 18: a birth certificate + parental consent + parents’ IDs.
• If born abroad, you may need a Kenyan birth certificate (for those born abroad) and proof of citizenship registration, depending on individual case.

Required Documents & Supporting Information

Gather all documents ahead to avoid rejections or delays. The following are typically required:

• Completed application form (available via the eCitizen portal).
• Valid national identity card (for adults).
• Original birth certificate and a photocopy.
• Passport-size photos (recent, clear, with white background, full face visible, etc.).
• Old passport (if renewing or lost/damaged replacement).
• Consent documentation if you are applying for a minor (parent or guardian’s IDs, consent letters, etc.).
• Recommendation or witness ID in some situations (e.g. for applications requiring a recommender’s ID).
• If your passport was lost: a police abstract or report may be required.

How Much Does It Cost?

Fees vary by page type, purpose (new, renewal, replacement, lost or damaged) and are set by the Department of Immigration. As of 2025, typical fees are:

• 32 pages (“A Series”): ~ **KES 4,550**
• 48 pages (“B Series”): ~ **KES 6,050**
• 64 pages (“C Series”): ~ **KES 7,550**
• East African passport fee: ~ **KES 990**
• Fees are higher for diplomatic passports, lost or mutilated passports. Expect extra costs for replacements.

Step-by-Step Application Process

1. Create/Register an account on eCitizen. Use a valid phone number to verify your account.
2. Login and navigate to “Passports / New Application / Renewals / Replacement” on the Immigration or Department of Immigration Services section.
3. Fill the application form carefully. Double-check details like name spellings, date of birth, parent names, etc.
4. Select mode of payment (Mobile money, debit/credit card, online banking). Pay the prescribed fee.
5. Download and print necessary documents: application form, receipt(s), etc. Some may require multiple copies.
6. Submit your application in person to an immigration or passport office for biometric capture (photo + fingerprints). Major offices include Nairobi (Nyayo House), Kisumu, Mombasa, and others. Minor or diaspora offices as applicable.
7. Provide all supporting documents when submitting. Missing or incorrect documentation is the major cause of delays.
8. Wait for processing. New passports typically take around **10 working days** for first applications; renewals or replacements may take about **5 working days**, assuming documents are in order.
9. Collect or get delivered the passport once ready. Some offices allow courier or mail-out options for diaspora; check your local mission or consulate.

Special Situations

Minors / Under 18 Applicants

• Must have a birth certificate.
• Parental or guardian consent in writing + IDs of parents/guardians.
• The child’s details should match other official documentation (e.g. birth certificate, national ID if applicable).

Replacing Lost, Damaged, or Mutilated Passport

• Report the loss to the police and obtain a police abstract if required.
• Provide any copy of the lost or old passport if available.
• Submit all standard requirements plus the damage/loss documentation.
• Expect a higher fee for replacement. Applicants may also need to write a personal statement or explanation in some cases.

Renewals & Expiry

• You can apply for renewal before or shortly after expiry—but traveling with an expired passport is not advised.
• If your passport is valid for many more months and travel plans are far off, - renewing early might save you trouble if pages fill up or if requirements change.

Tips to Avoid Delays & Rejections ✅

• Ensure all names match exactly between ID, birth certificate, and any other documents.
• Use an appropriate, recent photo (within past one month) with white background, clear face, no shadows.
• Pay the correct fee and keep the payment receipt(s).
• Make sure your eCitizen account is verified and all data (address, phone number) is correct.
• Submit documents in the required format and order. Copies should be clean and legible.
• Follow up if there are delays; keep your tracking or application number safe.

Expected Processing Time

While processing times vary depending on application type and location, here is a rough guide:

• First-time applicants: ~ **10 working days** after submission at immigration office.
• Renewals / replacements (if all documents correct): ~ **5 working days**.
• If there are issues with documentation or verification: delays possible (weeks).

Where to Apply / Submit

• Main Immigration offices in Kenya: Nairobi (Nyayo House), Kisumu, Mombasa, etc.
• For Kenyans abroad: Kenyan Embassies or High Commissions. Use eCitizen and check local consular requirements for submission and biometrics.
• Some diaspora locations allow mail-in or drop-off of application plus appointment for biometrics.

Useful External Resources

For the most current information and to access official forms or eCitizen services, visit these trusted sites:

• Kenya eCitizen Portal
• Kenya Immigration Department / Directorate of Immigration Services
• Kenya High Commission (UK) Passport Services for those in the UK

Conclusion

Applying for a Kenyan passport in 2025 doesn’t have to be stressful. By preparing all documents, using the correct process via the eCitizen portal, paying the proper fees, and following biometrics requirements—you significantly reduce wait times and avoid common pitfalls. Safe travels! ✈️