All You Need to Know About Your Kenyan Passport
When it comes to traveling internationally, your passport is your most valuable possession. As a Kenyan citizen, understanding the ins and outs of your Kenyan passport is essential for seamless travel experiences.Stay informed about any updates or changes in passport regulations to avoid any inconveniences during your travels.
1. About The Kenyan Passport and Its Importance
The Kenyan passport is a travel document issued to Kenyan citizens for international travel. Kenyan citizens are required to have a passport when traveling abroad.
A Kenyan passport certifies the identity and nationality of a citizen of Kenya. It is issued by the Directorate of Immigration services under the Ministry of Interior and Coordination of National Government
2. Eligibility and Passport Laws and Regulations
Kenyan passports are issued to Kenyan citizens in accordance with the Constitution of Kenya, 2010, and the Kenya Citizens and Immigration Act, which came into effect on 30th August, 2011.
3. ePassport
Since September 2017, Kenya issues digital passports or biometric passports (ePassports) in line with the East African Community and ICAO standards. These contain digital bio-data, including fingerprints and a digitally stored photo.
An ePassport, also known as a biometric passport, resembles a traditional passport book but includes an electronic chip encoded with the same information found on bio data page of the passport (surname, given name, date of birth, and sex). Additionally, it features a digital picture of the bearer's face.
4. Types of Kenyan Passports
Kenyan passports come in different categories, including:
- Ordinary (Regular) Passport.
- Diplomatic Passport.
- East African Passport.
- Temporary Passport.
The Ordinary Passport is the most common type issued to Kenyan citizens for general travel purposes.
Read More : Types of Kenyan Passports
5. Application Process for a Kenyan Passport
Applications for new, renewal, and replacement of passports can be made online through the eCitizen portal.
Read More : How to Apply for a Kenyan Passport Online
6. Fees
The cost of the passport varies depending on the type and number of pages.
| Passport Type | Fee (Ksh) |
|---|---|
| Ordinary "A" Series (34 Pages) | Ksh 4,550 |
| Ordinary "B" Series (50 Pages) | Ksh 6,050 |
| Ordinary "C" Series (66 pages) | Ksh 7,550 |
| Diplomatic Passport | Ksh 7,550 |
| Mutilated Passport | Ksh 10,050 |
| Lost Passport | Ksh 12,050 |
7. Passport Validity
Kenyan passports are valid for 10 years from the date of issuance. Adult applicants have the option of a 10-year ePassport for both first-time applications and renewals, while children's ePassports are issued for a maximum of 5 years.
8. Application Centers and Processing Locations in Kenya.
- Nairobi (Nyayo House Ground Floor)
9. Application Centers and Processing Locations Abroad
- London (United Kingdom)
- Washington DC (United States of America)
- Berlin (Germany)
- Pretoria (South Africa)
- Dubai (United Arab Emirates)
- Paris (France)
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