A Kenyan passport is essential if you are looking to do business in Kenya (if you are a migrant) and, most importantly, for those looking to travel outside the country (Kenyan citizens). The Directorate of Immigration Services offers several Kenyan passport types for application. However, one crucial thing is understanding the various passport fees and application processes. The type of passport you apply for determines not only how much it will cost but also the processing timeline and documentation required.
On March 1st, 2024, the Government of Kenya implemented revised passport fees that represent a significant increase from previous rates. Among these changes is the cost of various passports, which has increased substantially from previous prices. For example, the 34-page passport previously cost KES 4,500 but now costs KES 7,550, representing a 67% increase. However, this reflects broader improvements to Kenya’s biometric passport system and enhanced security features that align with international standards.
Kenya’s Passport System
According to the Directorate of Immigration, the country’s current passport system is a biometric ePassports that comply with International Civil Aviation Organization (ICAO) document 9303 standards and East African Community Summit resolutions. These passports are also valid for 10 years, after which one must reapply for a new passport.
If you are looking to apply for a new passport in Kenya, you can do so via the eCitizen portal at https://dis.ecitizen.go.ke/. However, upon completing the application process and paying applicable fees, applicants must book an appointment to enroll in biometrics at any immigration office in the country.
Passport Application Requirements
Before applying for a Kenyan passport, you must have the following documents ready for submission. Requirements may vary slightly depending on the type of passport being applied for.
For first-time applicants, the standard documents required include:
- Original national identity card (ID) or birth certificate for applicants below 18 years
- Copy of the national ID (both sides)
- Recent passport-sized photographs as specified on the eCitizen portal
- Completed application form submitted through the eCitizen portal at dis.ecitizen.go.ke
- Proof of citizenship, where applicable, such as for dual citizens or naturalized citizens
For renewal applications, you will additionally need:
- Original current or expired passport
- Copy of the biodata page of the current or most recent passport
All applications must be submitted online through the eCitizen portal before visiting an immigration office for biometric enrollment. Walk-in applications without prior online submission are not accepted.
Types of Kenyan Passports and Their Current Fees
According to the Department of Immigration, there are seven distinct types of travel documents available in Kenya, each serving specific purposes and populations.
1. Ordinary Passports
Ordinary passports are the most commonly issued type of passport in Kenya. They are best suited for ordinary citizens like you and me to travel internationally, where they are universally recognized. These passports feature a distinctive blue cover and are valid for up to 10 years for adults and 5 years for children under 16.
Ordinary passports are classified into three series based on the number of pages, with different pricing structures designed to accommodate various travel needs. Frequent travelers typically opt for higher-page-count passports to accommodate multiple visa stamps and border crossings.
The Current Ordinary Passport Fees are as follows:
- A Series (34 Pages): KES 7,550.00
- B Series (50 Pages): KES 9,550.00
- C Series (66 Pages): KES 12,050.00
2. Diplomatic Passports
Diplomatic passports serve a specialized function in Kenya’s international relations framework. These documents are issued exclusively to high-ranking government officials, ambassadors, and individuals representing Kenya in official diplomatic capacities abroad. Unlike ordinary passports, diplomatic passports feature a distinctive maroon cover that immediately identifies the bearer’s official status to immigration authorities worldwide.
These 48-page documents facilitate diplomatic immunity and special privileges in accordance with international diplomatic protocols. The current fee for a diplomatic passport is KES 15,050, reflecting both the specialized nature of the document and the additional security clearances required during the application process.
3. Mutilated and Lost Passport Replacements
Life happens, and sometimes passports become damaged beyond recognition or are unfortunately lost. The immigration department recognizes these situations and provides replacement services, though at premium rates that serve as both a replacement service and a deterrent against carelessness.
Mutilated passports have physical damage that renders them unrecognizable or unusable for travel. This includes water damage, torn pages, damaged biometric chips, or any alteration that compromises the document’s integrity. Similarly, lost passports require complete replacement with new biometric enrollment.
The Current Replacement Fees are:
- Mutilated Passport Replacement: KES 20,050
- Lost Passport Replacement: KES 20,050
4. Certificate of Identity (for Foreigners)
The certificate of identity serves as a crucial travel document for non-Kenyan citizens residing in Kenya who lack official documentation from their country of origin to obtain regular passports. This document typically serves refugees, stateless persons, or individuals whose home countries cannot provide consular services in Kenya.
These certificates are issued for specific purposes and durations, often facilitating return to countries of origin or temporary travel for essential purposes. The application process involves additional verification through the United Nations High Commissioner for Refugees (UNHCR) or other relevant authorities.
The current fee for a certificate of identity is KES 3,050, making it the most affordable travel document option for qualifying individuals.
5. Temporary Permit
As the name suggests, a temporary permit is a short-term travel document valid for one year. This document is specifically designed for Kenyan citizens who need to travel urgently within East African countries, particularly in emergency situations where there isn’t sufficient time to apply for regular passport types.
Common scenarios for temporary permit issuance include medical emergencies requiring treatment in neighboring countries, urgent business matters, or family emergencies. The immigration department evaluates each application to ensure genuine need before issuance.
The cost of a temporary permit in Kenya is KES 1,050, reflecting its limited scope and temporary nature.
6. Interstate Pass (EAC)
The Interstate Pass represents one of the most significant benefits of Kenya’s membership in the East African Community (EAC). This travel document is issued to Kenyan citizens traveling to any Eastern African Community member country, including Kenya, Uganda, Tanzania, Rwanda, Burundi, South Sudan, and the Democratic Republic of Congo (DRC).
The tremendous advantage of applying for an EAC interstate pass in Kenya is that it is free. This reflects the EAC’s commitment to facilitating the free movement of people within the community and promoting regional integration. The pass is particularly valuable for cross-border traders, students, and individuals with family ties across EAC member states.
To help you visualize all passport costs in Kenya, here is a comprehensive breakdown of all passport types and their respective fees as of 2026:
| Passport Type | Pages | Fee (KES) |
|---|---|---|
| Ordinary Passport — A Series | 34 Pages | 7,550.00 |
| Ordinary Passport — B Series | 50 Pages | 9,550.00 |
| Ordinary Passport — C Series | 66 Pages | 12,050.00 |
| Diplomatic Passport | 48 Pages | 15,050.00 |
| Mutilated Passport Replacement | Varies | 20,050.00 |
| Lost Passport Replacement | Varies | 20,050.00 |
| Certificate of Identity | Standard | 3,050.00 |
| Temporary Permit | Standard | 1,050.00 |
| Interstate Pass (EAC) | Standard | Free (Gratis) |
How Long Does It Take to Get a Kenyan Passport?
For first-time passport applicants, the standard processing time is 10 working days from the date of physical submission at immigration offices. For renewal and replacement applications, the processing time is typically 5 working days.
However, processing times can extend if additional information is required, if there are issues with submitted documents, or during peak application periods such as holiday seasons. The immigration department recommends applying well in advance of planned travel dates to avoid disappointment.
For urgent travel needs, express processing services are available at an additional cost; specific fees and timelines should be confirmed directly with the immigration department, as they can vary based on circumstances and availability.
Frequently Asked Questions
Is there a 32-page Kenyan passport?
No, there are no 32-page passports in Kenya at the moment. The closest options are the 34-page A Series passports, which cost KES 7,550, and 50-page B Series passports, which cost KES 9,550. The current passport series better serves travelers’ needs with more appropriate page counts.
Who qualifies for a diplomatic passport in Kenya?
Diplomatic passports are issued to high-ranking government officials on official duty and individuals representing Kenya in international diplomatic roles. This includes cabinet ministers, ambassadors, senior civil servants on official missions, and other authorized government representatives.
How many types of travel documents are available in Kenya?
There are seven distinct types of travel documents: Ordinary passports (available in A, B, and C series), Diplomatic passports, Mutilated passport replacements, Lost passport replacements, Certificates of Identity for foreigners, Temporary permits, and Interstate Passes for EAC travel.
What are the entry fees for visiting Kenya as a foreigner?
Foreign visitors to Kenya no longer use traditional visas. Since January 1, 2024, Kenya replaced all visitor visas with the Electronic Travel Authorisation (eTA) system. The standard eTA costs USD 30, the Transit eTA costs approximately USD 20, and the East Africa Tourist Visa covering Kenya, Rwanda, and Uganda costs USD 100. EAC member state citizens are exempt from eTA requirements entirely.
