Kenya Passport: Requirements and Application Process

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Obtaining a Kenyan passport involves a detailed process that includes online application, document submission, and biometric registration. Here’s a comprehensive guide to help you navigate the requirements and application steps.

Online Application via eCitizen Portal

You can apply for a new passport or replace your current passport through the eCitizen portal: www.ecitizen.go.ke. After completing the online application, you will need to download and print out Form 19.

Ensure you sign and date the form, gather all required documents and photographs, and submit them in person at the Embassy.

Required Documents and Materials

The following documents and materials are required for your passport application:

  • Duly filled eCitizen passport application Form 19.
  • 4 colored current passport size photos.
  • Original and copy of Kenyan Birth Certificate for citizens of Kenya by birth.
  • Original and copy of Kenyan marriage certificate/ proof of divorce (Decree Absolute) DULY authenticated by the Ministry of Foreign Affairs.
  • A duly filled eCitizen application Form 19 and 2 payment invoices.
  • Deed Poll (document prepared and registered at the Registrar of documents in the Ministry of Lands, Nairobi).
  • Copy of Kenya Gazette Notice effecting name change.
  • A duly filled eCitizen application Form 19 and 2 payment invoices.

Passport Photos

Photographs are a critical component of your application. Here are the specifications:

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  • Please provide 2 (two) color, passport size photos.
  • The photographs must be printed on photo paper.
  • The photographs must be 2″ by 2″ and have a white background.
  • The photographs must have been taken in the last 6 months.
  • Ensure the photos are printed on good quality paper in a studio.
  • Clear Pictures.

When scanning your documents and photos, ensure they are clear and meet the specified size requirements.

For computer - On the left hand side under export settings type in 150 (make sure ‘KB’ is selected next to it. For Phones - At the bottom click on resize, then under export settings type in 150 (make sure ‘KB’ is selected next to it.

Submission and Processing

Submit the application form in person at the Kenya Embassy - Washington D.C. Once you submit your duly completed application to an Immigration Officer, the passport processing should take at least between 4-6 weeks.

Part of the application process involves scanning of your documents. Your biometrics appointment will involve taking a picture and fingerprints.

How to apply for a Passport on eCitizen in Kenya

Additional Information

Dual Citizens are required to declare their other nationality prior to renewing Kenya passports. Passports and passport replacing documents must be in good condition.

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Kenya Visa Requirements

When traveling to Kenya, ensure you meet the necessary visa requirements. Here’s what you need to know:

  • Passport - You must provide your signed passport. Your passport must be valid for at least 6 months and have a blank page available.
  • Copy of your passport information page.
  • Kenya Visa Application Form - click here, then please follow the instructions for applying for an eVisa account. Please see the eligibility requirements to filling out an eVisa prior to submission. Then complete, print and sign the online visa application form. The eVisa printout must be presented at the port of entry.
  • Kenya 5 Year Visa Application - click here.
  • Washington Express Visas Visa Request Form - filled out completely.
  • A business letter of introduction from your company (on company letterhead) addressed to the Embassy of Kenya stating the purpose of travel, the name and contact of the company in Kenya you’re visiting, and a financial guarantee for all of your expenses.

For stays of up to 3 months, ensure your passport contains at least one blank page for visa endorsement. For details, click here

Minors (passengers up to the age of 16 years) travelling alone require additional documentation. For details, click here. If a minor is travelling on a parent's passport, additional requirements apply. For details, click here.

Important Considerations

When planning your trip to Kenya, keep the following health advisory in mind:

  • Malaria risk - mainly in the malignant (P. falciparum) form - exists throughout the year in the whole country. There is normally little risk in the city of Nairobi and in the highlands (above 2500 m.) of Central, Rift Valley, Eastern, Nyanza and Western Provinces.

Contact Information

For those needing to forward documents, use the following address:

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Forward Documents To:
1001 Connecticut Ave NW
Suite 710
Washington, DC 20036

We ask that you send the documents listed above via FedEx or UPS so the delivery can be tracked. Please call us at 202-393-3030 to let us know that your documents have been sent.

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tags: #Kenya