Applying for a Kenyan passport is done online through eCitizen and completed at an immigration office.
You must meet document, payment, and biometric capture requirements before approval.
In this guide, I will explain the full process, costs, and documents needed for first-time applicants, adults, and minors in Kenya.
What is Needed When Applying for a Passport in Kenya?
Before you start, prepare the following basics:
- eCitizen account.
- Original birth certificate.
- Original National ID (for adults).
- Passport photos.
- Recommender details.
- Payment for application fee.
- Booking for biometric capture.
Requirements for 1st Time Passport Application
If you are applying for a passport for the first time, follow these steps:
- Create or log in to your eCitizen account.
- Select Department of Immigration Services.
- Choose Passport Application.
- Fill in personal details correctly.
- Upload required documents.
- Pay the passport fee online.
- Book a biometric appointment.
- Visit the immigration office with originals.
- Capture fingerprints and photo.
- Wait for processing and collection SMS.
Processing normally takes a few weeks, depending on demand.
Requirements for Passport Application for Adults in Kenya
Applicants aged 18 years and above need:
- Original National ID and copy.
- Original birth certificate and copy.
- Three passport-size photos.
- Duly filled application form from eCitizen.
- Payment receipt.
- Recommender’s ID copy.
- Booking confirmation slip.
- Old passport (if replacing).
Always carry originals during biometric capture.
Requirements for Passport Application for Minors in Kenya
For applicants under 18 years:
- Original birth certificate.
- Parent or guardian ID copies.
- Consent letter from parents.
- Parent’s passport copies (if available).
- Three passport photos of the minor.
- eCitizen application form printout.
- Payment receipt.
- Booking slip.
The minor must attend biometric capture with a parent or guardian.
How Much is the Passport Application Fee in Kenya?
In 2026, passport fees are categorized by the number of pages in the booklet. Choose a larger booklet if you travel frequently to avoid early replacement costs.
| Passport Type | Number of Pages | Fee (Ksh) |
| Series A | 34 Pages | 7,550 |
| Series B | 50 Pages | 9,500 |
| Series C | 66 Pages | 12,500 |
| Diplomatic | 50 Pages | 15,050 |
| Mutilated | Replacement | 20,050 |
| Lost Passport | Replacement | 20,050 |
Who is a Recommender in Passport Application?
A recommender is a Kenyan citizen who verifies that they know you and that the information you provided is true.
- Who Qualifies? A Minister of Religion (Pastor/Imam), a Medical Practitioner, a Legal Practitioner (Lawyer), an established Civil Servant, or a Bank Official.
- Restrictions: The recommender cannot be a relative.
- Responsibility: They must sign Section 7 of your printed application form and provide a copy of their National ID.
FAQs
1. What are the requirements needed when applying for a passport?
The core requirements are your National ID, Birth Certificate, Parents’ ID copies, three passport photos, a signed recommender’s form, and the eCitizen payment invoices.
2. What documents do I require to apply for a passport if I lost mine?
You will need a Police Abstract reporting the loss, a Sworn Affidavit, a personal explanation letter, and the standard ID and birth certificate copies. The fee for a lost passport is Ksh 20,050.
3. How long does it take to get a passport in 2026?
After biometrics, the standard processing time is 14 to 21 working days, though this can fluctuate based on the current booklet supply at Nyayo House.
Also See: Requirements for Certificate of Good Conduct in Kenya
Conclusion
Passport application in Kenya is simple when you follow the right steps.
Create an eCitizen account, prepare your documents, pay online, and attend biometric capture.
Adults and minors have different requirements, so confirm your category before applying.
Always carry originals to avoid delays.
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