How to apply for a passport online step by step process?

Your National ID keeps you in Kenya, but a passport gives you wings to fly around the world. Whether it’s that dream job in Dubai, a safari across the border, or finally visiting the streets of London, it all starts with one digital form. Skip the confusion and the ‘broken’ links—here is the definitive, no-nonsense guide to securing your Kenyan passport via eCitizen without the headache.”

As of February 2026, applicants should note that the government has recently prioritized the 66-page booklet on the platform, making it the primary standard choice for new applications.

Current Passport Types and Fees (February 2026)

While historically there were several options, recent updates on the eCitizen portal have shifted availability.

*Note: As of early February 2026, the 34-page and 50-page options were reportedly hidden or unavailable for standard new applications on eCitizen, effectively making KSh 12,500 the minimum fee for many new applicants.

What documents do I need to apply for a Kenyan passport?

Ensure you have clear scans (JPEG/PNG format only) for the online upload and original documents for your physical appointment.

• National ID Card: Original and a clear photocopy (front and back).
• Birth Certificate: Original and a photocopy.
• Recommender’s ID: A photocopy of the National ID of a Kenyan citizen (not a relative) who can vouch for you.
• Passport Photos: Three recent, clear, unmounted color photos with a white background.
• Parents’ Documents: Photocopies of parents’ National IDs or death certificates (if applicable).
• Old Passport: If you are renewing, bring the original old passport and copies of the last three pages.

Step-by-Step Application Process

• Register/Login: Access the eCitizen portal using your National ID number.
• Select Service: Navigate to the Directorate of Immigration Services and click on “Passport Application”.
• Fill the Form: Complete the online application form accurately. Ensure names match your ID exactly.
• Upload Documents: Upload your scanned photos, ID, and birth certificate.
• Pay Fees: Pay via M-Pesa, credit/debit card, or online banking. Once paid, download and print the Application Form 19 and the two payment invoices.
• Book Appointment: Use the portal to schedule a date for biometric capture at a center (e.g., Nyayo House in Nairobi, Mombasa, Kisumu, Eldoret, etc.).
• Attend Biometrics: Visit the selected immigration office in person on your appointment date with all original documents and your printed forms.

After Your Appointment

• Processing Time: It typically takes at least 10-15 working days after biometrics for the first passport, though this can vary based on booklet availability.
• Tracking: You can track the status through your eCitizen account.
• Collection: You will receive an SMS notification when it is ready. Collect it in person at the same office where you did your biometrics by presenting your original ID.

 Pro-Tip:
To avoid delays, ensure your recommender (the person signing section 7) has a valid Kenyan ID and is not related to you. If your documents are faded, get certified copies from the Civil Registration Department before your appointment

What are the best offices for faster processing?

Embu: Widely regarded as one of the fastest and least congested offices. Many Nairobi residents travel here to complete biometrics in a single day with shorter queues.

Kisii & Eldoret: These regional centers often have better appointment availability on the eCitizen portal compared to Nairobi or Mombasa.

Nakuru & Kericho: Recent upgrades and new staff deployment have improved efficiency at these locations.

Bungoma: One of the newest commissioned centers, designed specifically to decentralize and speed up services.

The “72-Hour” Fast Track 

The government has officially reduced standard processing times to 10–15 working days, with a 2026 goal of 72-hour issuance for urgent cases.

• Migrant Labour Desk: If you are traveling for a job abroad, use the dedicated Migrant Labour counters at Nyayo House or regional offices for 3-day expedited processing.
• Urgent Cases: Nyayo House maintains a special desk for documented emergencies (medical, education, or urgent business).

Upcoming Offices

To further reduce wait times, the Directorate of Immigration Services is rolling out new centers in Westlands, Upper Hill, and Thika, as well as fast-growing towns like Machakos and Narok.

Pro Tip:
Always check the “Ready Passport” list on the Immigration website before traveling to collect. You can also track your status by sending your eCitizen application reference number to SMS code 222222

 To stay updated on your passport’s progress without constantly logging into a computer, use the 22222 SMS service. This official shortcode provides real-time updates from the Directorate of Immigration Services.

How to Use the 22222 Tracking System

Step 1: Locate Your Reference Number

You can find your eCitizen application reference number (often starting with “EPP” or “CPP”) in two places:

• On the payment receipt you downloaded from eCitizen.
• On the Acknowledgement Form given to you after your biometric capture.

Step 2: Send the SMS

1. Open the Messaging app on your phone.
2. Compose a new message to the shortcode 22222.
3. Type your application reference number(e.g., EPP1-ABC12345) and hit send.
   1. Note: Ensure you have at least KSh 10-20 airtime, as this is a premium SMS service.

Step 3: Interpret the Response

You will receive an automated reply showing the current “stage” of your application. Common statuses include:

• Upgraded/Submitted: Your application is in the system but biometrics are pending.
• Back-office Processing: Your documents are being verified by immigration officers.
• In Production: Your passport is being printed.
• Ready for Collection: The best news! Your passport is ready at the center where you did biometrics.

FAQ 

Q: Why did I get an error saying “Service Unavailable”?
A: This usually happens during system maintenance. Try again during official working hours (8:00 AM – 5:00 PM) for the most stable connection to the database.

Q: Can I use 22222 for other services?
A: Yes! The 22222 shortcode is the universal “Gava Mkononi” service number. It can be used for tracking National ID applications and other eCitizen services.

Q: Is there a USSD alternative?
A: Yes, you can also dial *222# to access the eCitizen menu directly on your phone and follow the prompts for “Immigration Services”

What to bring when collecting your passport

When that long-awaited SMS finally arrives, don’t just rush to the immigration office! If you show up empty-handed, you’ll be turned away.

Here is exactly what you need to carry to the collection desk at Nyayo House or your regional center.

The “Must-Have” Checklist

1. Original National ID Card:This is non-negotiable. They must verify your identity against the biometrics on the chip.
2. The Old Passport (If Renewing):If you were upgrading from the old “A-series” to the e-passport, you must surrender the old one. They will cancel it (usually by clipping the corners or stamping it) and hand it back to you.
3. The Token/Submission Receipt:Bring the small slip or the stamped Form 19 given to you during your biometric capture session.
4. Proof of Status (SMS or Printout):Show the “Ready for Collection” SMS or a screenshot of your eCitizen status showing the passport is ready.

Specific Scenarios

Collecting for a Minor (Child)

Parents cannot just “pick up” a child’s passport without proof. You need:

• The Parent’s Original ID: The parent who made the application must be the one to collect it.
• Child’s Original Birth Certificate: To link the child to the parent.
• Presence of the Minor: Currently, most offices do not require the child to be present for collection, but it is safer to check the specific station’s 2026 rules as they occasionally change.

If You Can’t Go in Person (Proxy)

Immigration prefers personal collection for security, but if you are incapacitated:

• Authorization Letter: A formal letter explaining why you can’t come, witnessed by a Commissioner of Oaths.
• Certified Copy of Your ID: And the original ID of the person you have authorized.
• Note: This is rarely granted and is usually reserved for medical emergencies.

FAQ 

Lets look at some of the common questions asked when applying for a kenyan passport

Q: Can I collect my passport at Huduma Centre?
A: Only if you did your biometrics there. You must collect your passport at the exact same station where your fingerprints were taken.

Q: What are the collection hours?
A: Standard hours are 8:00 AM to 4:00 PM on weekdays. However, during “rapid results” periods, offices like Nyayo House often open as early as 7:00 AM and run until 6:00 PM.

Q: Do I need to book an appointment for collection?
A: Generally, no. Most offices have a dedicated Collection Counter that operates on a walk-in, first-come-first-served basis.

Q:What should I wear for my passport photo?

A: Aim for a timeless look , as passport photos are often used for many years. Avoid funky fashion trends that could fade easily, such as extremely trendy  hair cuts or designs. Instead, opt for classic, elegant clothing that will still look current in a few years’ time.

Pro-Tip

“Check the Immigration Twitter (X) account or their website for the latest ‘Lot’ numbers. They often post lists of passports that have stayed in the office for more than 6 months—if yours is on that list, you need to pick it up immediately before it’s sent back to the warehouse!”