A passport is an essential document that allows you to travel abroad and prove your identity and citizenship. If you you want to apply for a passport, here are the steps that you need to follow:
Step 1: Register for an e-citizen account
The first step is to register for an e-citizen account, which is the official online portal for accessing government services in Kenya. You can register using your national identity card number, phone number, and email address. You will also need to create a password and verify your account. To register, visit eCitizen.
Step 2: Fill online application
The next step is to fill the online application form for the passport. You will need to log in to your e-citizen account and select the Department of Immigration Services.
Then, choose the passport type that suits your needs. There are different types of passports depending on the number of pages, validity period, and fee. For example, a 32-page passport valid for 10 years costs Kshs. 4,550, while a 64-page passport valid for 10 years costs Kshs. 6,050.
You will provide your personal details, such as your name, date of birth, place of birth, marital status, occupation, education level, and contact information.
You will also need to provide details of your parents, spouse, children, and next of kin. Additionally, you will need to provide details of two recommenders who are Kenyan citizens and who have known you for at least two years. They should not be relatives or public servants.
Step 3: Scan and upload required documents
The third step is to scan and upload the required documents for the passport application. You will need to have the following documents in PDF format:
1. A duly filled application Form 19 and two payment invoices
2. Original birth certificate and a copy for citizens of Kenya by birth
3. Certificate of registration for citizens of Kenya by registration
4. Original applicant’s national identity card and a copy for adults
5. Copy of the recommender’s national identity card
6. Duly filled consent form for minors
7. Copies of parents’ national identity cards or death certificates where applicable
8. Original and copies of parents’ birth certificates
9. And any other additional document as may be required
You can scan these documents using a scanner or a mobile app that can convert images into PDF files. You can also use online tools that can compress PDF files to reduce their size.
Step 4: Pay prescribed fee
The fourth step is to pay the prescribed fee for the passport application. You can pay using mobile money services such as M-Pesa or Airtel Money. You will generate an invoice from the e-citizen portal and use the provided pay bill number and account number to make the payment. After which, you will receive a confirmation message once the payment is successful.
Step 5: Book appointment
The fifth step is to book an appointment for the submission and biometrics capture of your passport application. You will need to choose a date and time slot that is convenient for you from the available options on the e-citizen portal. You will also choose the immigration office that you want to visit from the following locations:
– Nairobi
– Mombasa
– Kisumu
– Eldoret
– Nakuru
– Embu
– Kisii
You will receive an email confirmation with your appointment details once you book it.
Step 6: Print the duly completed application form and two invoices
The sixth step is to print the duly completed application form and two invoices that you generated from the e-citizen portal. You will need to have these documents with you when you go for your appointment.
Step 7: Attach copies of required documents
The seventh step is to attach copies of the required documents that you scanned and uploaded in step 3. You will need to have one set of copies for each document.
Step 8: Submission and biometrics
The final step is to go for your appointment at the immigration office that you chose in step 5. You will need to carry the following items with you:
– The original documents that you scanned and uploaded in step 3
– The printed application form and two invoices from step 6
– The attached copies of required documents from step 7
– A passport size photo with a white background
You will need to submit your application form and documents at the designated counter and then proceed to the biometrics capture station where your fingerprints, signature, and photo will be taken. You will also be asked some security questions and verify your details on a screen.
How to Quickly Get Your Passport
The processing time for the passport application is usually between 10 to 15 working days. However, if you want to get your passport faster, here are some tips that you can follow:
1. Apply early
The earlier you apply, the better your chances of getting your passport sooner. Avoid applying during peak seasons such as holidays or when there are travel restrictions.
2. Choose a post office close to the immigration office
When you apply for your passport, you will need to choose a post office where you want your passport to be delivered.
The closer the post office is to the immigration office, the faster you will receive your passport. You can also track your passport delivery status on the e-citizen portal.
3. Follow up
You can also follow up on your passport application status by calling or visiting the immigration office where you applied. You can also send an email to dis@immigration.go.ke with your application details and request for an update.
Conclusion
Applying for a passport in Kenya is a simple and straightforward process that can be done online through the e-citizen portal. You will need to have the required documents, pay the prescribed fee, book an appointment, and submit your application and biometrics at the immigration office.
You can also get your passport faster by applying early, choosing a post office close to the immigration office, and following up on your application status. With a passport, you can enjoy the benefits of traveling abroad and exploring new opportunities.
