Applying for a Kenyan passport is no longer a tedious process of queuing and confusing paperwork. Thanks to the eCitizen portal, you can now do most of the process online—from filling the application to scheduling your appointment at a passport center.
This 2025 guide shows you how to apply for a passport in Kenya online, the requirements, costs and tips for a faster process.
Types of Kenyan Passports
Ordinary Passport – For general travel (maroon cover)
Diplomatic Passport – For diplomats and top government officials (red cover)
Service Passport – For civil servants and government officers (blue cover)
This article focuses on the Ordinary Passport.
Requirements for First-Time Applicants
Original and copy of Kenyan National ID
Copy of your Birth Certificate
Recommender’s ID copy (person of standing in society)
Two (2) recent passport-size photos (white background)
Parent’s ID copies (for applicants below 18)
Old Passport (if applying for replacement)
eCitizen account
Application fee (varies by passport type)
Step-by-Step: How to Apply Online
Step 1: Log in to eCitizen
Sign in with your ID and password. Register if you are new.
Step 2: Choose the Immigration Services
On the dashboard, select Department of Immigration Services
Click on Passport Application
Step 3: Fill in the Application Form
Choose "New Passport" or "Replacement"
Enter your full names, ID number, place of birth, date of birth, and more
Provide your recommender’s information
Confirm all your details carefully before submitting
Step 4: Make the Payment
| Passport Type | Cost (KES) |
|---|---|
| 32-page Ordinary Passport | 7,500 |
| 48-page Ordinary Passport | 9,500 |
| 64-page Ordinary Passport | 12,500 |
Pay via M-PESA, Airtel Money, Debit/Credit Card or Bank
Step 5: Print the Application Documents
After payment, download and print:
Application summary
Payment receipt
Appointment details
Step 6: Visit the Passport Application Center
You must go in person to a passport center for biometric capture. Visit the selected Immigration Office with:
Printed application form
Payment receipt
Original and copy of ID
Original and copy of Birth Certificate
Passport photos
Recommender’s ID copy
Popular passport centers include:
Nairobi (Nyayo House)
Mombasa (Uhuru na Kazi Building)
Kisumu, Eldoret, Embu, Nakuru
Kenyan Embassies (for diaspora applicants)
How to Track Your Passport Status
After submission, you can:
Log in to your eCitizen account
Click on “My Applications”
View status updates: Processing, Ready for Collection, etc.
You may also receive an SMS notification when it’s ready.
Processing Time
Standard waiting time: 10 to 15 working days
May take longer if backlog or missing documents
Common Mistakes to Avoid
Uploading blurred passport photos
Entering incorrect names (must match ID and birth certificate)
Choosing the wrong passport type
Skipping the recommender section
Final Thoughts
Applying for a passport in Kenya is now a much smoother and tech-friendly process. As long as you follow the steps and prepare your documents properly, you can expect your passport without much stress. Begin early—especially if you’re planning to travel for school, work or a holiday.