How to Apply for a Passport Online in Kenya: A Step-by-Step Guide
Planning a trip abroad can be an exciting experience, but it can quickly turn into a daunting task if you don’t have a valid passport. Fortunately, the Kenyan government has made it easier for citizens to obtain a passport by introducing an online application process. If you’re wondering how to apply for a passport online in Kenya, you’re in the right place. In this article, we’ll take you through a step-by-step guide on how to apply for a passport online in Kenya, including the required documents, fees, and processing time.
Required Documents for Online Passport Application in Kenya
Before you start the online application process, it’s essential to gather all the required documents. These include:
– A scanned copy of your national ID card (both sides)
– A scanned copy of your birth certificate
– A scanned copy of your parents’ national ID cards (for minors)
– A digital passport photo that meets the required specifications (a white background, recent, and with a neutral expression)
– Proof of payment for the application fee (we’ll discuss this later)
Make sure all the scanned documents are clear and legible to avoid any delays in the application process.
How to Create an Account on the e-Citizen Portal
To apply for a passport online in Kenya, you need to create an account on the e-Citizen portal. Here’s how:
– Visit the e-Citizen website ([www.ecitizen.go.ke](http://www.ecitizen.go.ke)) and click on “Create an Account”
– Fill in the required details, including your name, email address, and password
– Verify your email address by clicking on the link sent to your email
– Log in to your account and click on “Department of Immigration Services” under the “Apply for” section
– Click on “Submit New Application” and select “Passport Application” as the service you want to apply for
Filling Out the Online Passport Application Form
Once you’ve created an account and logged in, you’ll be redirected to the online passport application form. Here, you’ll be required to fill in your personal details, including:
– Your name and surname
– Your date and place of birth
– Your national ID number and expiry date
– Your contact information, including your email address and phone number
– Your occupation and employer’s details (if applicable)
– Your travel history (if you’ve traveled before)
Make sure you fill in all the required fields accurately and truthfully. Any incorrect information may lead to delays or rejection of your application.
Paying for Your Passport Application Fee
The passport application fee in Kenya is currently KES 7,500 for a 32-page passport and KES 12,500 for a 64-page passport. You can pay for the fee using various payment methods, including:
– M-Pesa (via the Lipa na M-Pesa service)
– Visa or Mastercard credit/debit cards
– Bank transfer (via the Kenya Commercial Bank or National Bank of Kenya)
Once you’ve made the payment, you’ll receive a payment receipt, which you’ll need to upload on the e-Citizen portal.
Uploading Required Documents and Submitting Your Application
After filling out the online application form and paying the application fee, you’ll need to upload the required documents, including:
– Your national ID card (both sides)
– Your birth certificate
– Your parents’ national ID cards (for minors)
– Your digital passport photo
– Your payment receipt
Once you’ve uploaded all the required documents, review your application carefully to ensure everything is in order. If you’re satisfied, submit your application and wait for processing.
Processing Time and Collection of Your Passport
The processing time for online passport applications in Kenya typically takes 10-15 working days. However, this may vary depending on the workload of the Department of Immigration Services.
Once your application has been processed, you’ll receive an SMS notification to collect your passport at the nearest immigration office. Make sure you bring your national ID card and a copy of your application receipt to facilitate the collection process.
In conclusion, applying for a passport online in Kenya is a relatively straightforward process, as long as you have all the required documents and follow the steps outlined above. By following this guide, you’ll be able to obtain a valid passport and start planning your trip abroad.
Applying for a Passport Online in Kenya: A Step-by-Step Guide
To simplify the process, we’ve outlined the necessary steps to apply for a passport online in Kenya. Below is a comprehensive table that breaks down the requirements and process.
| Step | Requirements | Process |
|---|---|---|
| 1. Create an account | Valid email address, ID number, and password | Visit the eCitizen portal (ecitizen.go.ke) and register for an account. |
| 2. Fill the application form | Personal details, ID number, and passport requirements | Log in to your eCitizen account and fill out the passport application form. |
| 3. Upload required documents | Scanned copies of ID, birth certificate, and passport photo | Upload the required documents in the specified formats (JPEG or PDF). |
| 4. Pay the application fee | KES 4,550 for a 32-page passport or KES 6,050 for a 48-page passport | Pay the application fee using M-Pesa, credit/debit card, or other accepted payment methods. |
| 5. Submit the application | Review and confirm the application details | Submit the application and wait for approval. |
| 6. Collect your passport | Approved application and payment receipt | Collect your passport from the designated passport collection center. |
Conclusion
The process of applying for a passport online in Kenya is now more efficient and convenient than ever. By following the steps outlined in the table above, you can easily submit your application and obtain your passport. Remember to ensure accuracy and completeness when filling out the application form and uploading required documents. With the eCitizen portal, you can track the progress of your application and receive updates on the status of your passport.
Ready to start your passport application journey? Visit the eCitizen portal today and take the first step towards obtaining your Kenyan passport. If you have any questions or need further assistance, feel free to reach out to us. Happy travels!
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