Kenya ePassport (Biometric Passport) Guide 2026
Kenya has fully transitioned to the electronic passport (ePassport) system. The new biometric passport contains a chip with your digital photograph, fingerprints and personal data, meeting ICAO international standards.
Old Passports Phased Out
All old-generation Kenya passports have been phased out. If you still hold an old passport, you must apply for the new ePassport. The old passport will not be accepted for international travel.
What is the Kenya ePassport?
The Kenya ePassport is a biometric travel document that incorporates:
- Embedded chip storing biometric data
- Digital photograph captured at application
- Fingerprint data (10 fingers)
- Machine-readable zone (MRZ)
- ICAO 9303 compliant - recognised globally
- Enhanced security features against fraud
- East African Community harmonised design
- 66 pages (C Series, current issue)
Types of Kenya ePassport
| Type | Cover Colour | Pages | Fee (KSH) | Issued To |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| Ordinary Passport | Dark Blue | 66 | 12,500 | Regular citizens |
| Diplomatic Passport | Red | 48 | 7,550 | Diplomats, senior officials |
| Service Passport | Green | 48 | N/A | Government officials on duty |
How to Apply for the Kenya ePassport
Step 1: Register on eCitizen
Create an account at ecitizen.go.ke using your Kenya national ID number and email address. Verify your account via the confirmation email.
Step 2: Complete the Online Application
Log into eCitizen and navigate to the Department of Immigration Services. Select "Passport Application" and fill in all personal details, including your Kenya ID number, date of birth, and reason for application.
Step 3: Upload Documents
Upload scanned copies of your Kenya national ID card, birth certificate, and passport-sized photo. For renewals, upload your current passport bio-data page.
Step 4: Pay Online
Pay KSH 12,500 for the 66-page ordinary passport through M-Pesa, bank card, or bank transfer via the eCitizen payment gateway.
Step 5: Book Biometric Appointment
If applying from abroad, contact your nearest Kenya embassy or high commission to schedule a biometric capture appointment. In Kenya, book at one of the designated Passport Processing Centres.
Step 6: Attend Biometric Capture
Attend your appointment with all original documents. Your photograph and all 10 fingerprints will be captured digitally at the embassy or processing centre.
Step 7: Track and Collect
Track your application on eCitizen. Applications from abroad are processed in Nairobi and returned to the embassy. Processing takes 4-8 weeks from abroad.
Required Documents
New Application (Adult)
- Printed eCitizen application form
- Kenya national ID card (original + copy)
- Birth certificate (original + copy)
- Two passport-sized photographs
- eCitizen payment receipt
Renewal
- Printed eCitizen application form
- Current or expired passport (original)
- Kenya national ID card (original + copy)
- Two passport-sized photographs
- eCitizen payment receipt
Children (Under 18)
- Child's birth certificate (original + copy)
- Both parents' Kenya ID cards (copies)
- Consent from both parents (signed)
- Parents' marriage certificate (if applicable)
- Two passport-sized photographs of the child
Photo Requirements
- Size: 35mm x 45mm
- White background
- Taken within the last 6 months
- Full face, front view, eyes open
- No glasses, hats, or head coverings (except religious)
Biometric Capture Locations
In Kenya (Passport Processing Centres)
- Nairobi (Nyayo House)
- Mombasa
- Kisumu
- Eldoret
- Nakuru
- Embu
- Kisii
- Kericho
- Bungoma
Abroad
Biometric capture is available at all Kenya embassies, high commissions and consulates worldwide. Find your nearest mission and book an appointment.