How to Apply for a Kenyan Passport Online in 2026: Fees, Requirements and Steps
How to Apply for a Kenyan Passport Online
All Kenyan passport applications are made online through eCitizen, followed by an in-person biometrics appointment. The process is straightforward if you prepare the right documents.
Fees in 2026
Since the cheaper booklets were withdrawn, the eCitizen form for new applications and standard renewals offers the 66-page passport at KES 12,500. Smaller booklets have been limited to special cases such as replacement of lost or damaged passports. Fees are set by the Department of Immigration and can change - the amount shown on eCitizen at the time of payment is final.
Requirements
- An eCitizen account at accounts.ecitizen.go.ke
- Original national ID and a copy
- Birth certificate (copy) - required for first-time applicants
- Passport-size photos as specified, if requested (photos are usually taken at biometrics)
- Recommender details, where requested: a person who has known you and holds a Kenyan ID
- For renewals: your old passport
- For minors: birth certificate, parents' IDs and consent from both parents or guardians
Step-by-Step
- Log in to eCitizen and open the Department of Immigration Services.
- Choose Passport Application and select the passport type and application reason (first-time, renewal, replacement).
- Fill in the form: personal details, parents' details, addresses, and recommender details if asked.
- Upload the required documents as scans or clear photos.
- Pay the fee through M-Pesa (eCitizen paybill 222222), card or bank.
- Book an appointment at your preferred passport issuing station - Nyayo House in Nairobi, regional offices or Huduma Centres offering the service.
- Attend the appointment with original documents for verification, fingerprints and photo capture.
- Track progress on eCitizen and by SMS. When the passport is ready, collect it in person with your ID and the notification.
Processing Time
Processing typically takes from a few working days to several weeks depending on demand and the station. Apply well before planned travel; urgent cases may be considered with proof of travel or medical need.
Applying From Abroad
Kenyans in the diaspora apply through eCitizen and complete biometrics at Kenyan missions abroad that offer passport services.
Tips
- Make sure names match exactly across your ID and birth certificate.
- Keep your eCitizen phone number and email current for notifications.
- Never pay anyone outside eCitizen to "speed up" your passport.
Planning to work abroad? See our guide to jobs in Germany from Kenya and the certificate of good conduct, which most visa processes require.
Passport Types at a Glance
| Passport | Who it is for |
|---|---|
| Ordinary passport (East African e-passport) | Kenyan citizens travelling for personal, business or study purposes |
| Diplomatic passport | Diplomats and designated senior officials |
| Official (service) passport | Government officers travelling on official duty |
| Emergency travel documents | Citizens abroad who urgently need to return home without a valid passport |
Most applicants need the ordinary e-passport, which contains a chip holding your biometric data.
Applying for a Minor
Children need their own passports. The application is made from a parent's or guardian's eCitizen account and requires:
- The child's birth certificate
- Both parents' IDs, or proof of sole custody or guardianship
- Consent from both parents, usually by both being present or providing signed consent
- The child's presence at the biometrics appointment for photo capture
If one parent is abroad or unavailable, ask the issuing office in advance which consent documents are acceptable.
Replacing a Lost or Damaged Passport
- Report the loss to the police and obtain a police abstract.
- Apply on eCitizen and choose replacement as the reason.
- Upload the abstract and any copy of the old passport you have.
- Pay the replacement fee and attend biometrics.
Replacement fees are often higher than standard applications, and lost passports may be investigated before a new one is issued. Keep a scanned copy of your passport's data page somewhere safe.
Timeline at a Glance
| Step | Typical time |
|---|---|
| Online application and payment | 30 to 60 minutes |
| Biometrics appointment | Depends on slot availability |
| Processing | From a few working days to several weeks |
| Collection | In person, with ID and notification |
Common Mistakes
- Mismatched names between your ID and birth certificate - fix these before applying.
- Booking travel before the passport is in hand.
- Uploading unclear scans, which leads to rejections and delays.
- Paying brokers at immigration offices. All payments are made on eCitizen.
- Letting your passport get close to expiry. Many countries require at least six months' validity.
Frequently Asked Questions
How long is a Kenyan passport valid? Adult ordinary passports are generally valid for ten years. Children's passports have shorter validity.
Can I track my passport application? Yes. Your eCitizen account shows the status, and you receive SMS updates when the passport is ready for collection.
Can someone else collect my passport? Collection is normally in person because your identity is verified. Ask the issuing station about any exceptions for special cases.
Do I need a visa to travel within East Africa? Kenyans can travel to many East African Community countries without a visa, and in some cases with an ID card alone, but always check current requirements before travel.