How to Renew Your Kenya Passport Abroad 2026
Complete guide to renewing your Kenya passport at an embassy or high commission abroad. All renewals are now for the biometric ePassport and must be initiated online via the eCitizen portal.
When to Renew
Renew your passport at least 6-12 months before it expires. Many countries require at least 6 months validity on your passport for entry. Processing from abroad takes 4-8 weeks, so plan ahead.
Renewal Process - Step by Step
-
Log into eCitizen
Go to ecitizen.go.ke and log in (or create an account if you do not have one). Navigate to Department of Immigration Services.
-
Select "Passport Renewal"
Choose the passport renewal option and enter your current passport number and personal details.
-
Upload Required Documents
Upload scans of your current/expired passport bio-data page, Kenya national ID, and a recent passport photograph.
-
Pay KSH 12,500
Pay the fee online via M-Pesa, bank card, or bank transfer. Keep your payment receipt.
-
Contact Your Nearest Embassy
Find your embassy and book an appointment for biometric capture. Some embassies allow online booking; others require a phone call or email.
-
Attend Biometric Appointment
Visit the embassy on your appointment date with all original documents. Your fingerprints and photograph will be captured digitally.
-
Wait for Processing (4-8 weeks)
Your application is forwarded to the Immigration Department in Nairobi. Track progress on eCitizen. The embassy will notify you when your passport is ready.
Required Documents for Renewal
- Printed eCitizen application form with payment receipt
- Current or expired Kenya passport (original)
- Kenya national ID card (original and photocopy)
- Two recent passport-sized photographs (35mm x 45mm, white background)
- Proof of residence in host country (some embassies require this)
Renewal Fees
| Item | Fee |
|---|---|
| Passport fee (66-page C Series) | KSH 12,500 (~USD 97) |
| Embassy biometric capture surcharge | Varies by embassy (USD 0-50) |
| Express processing (if available) | Additional fee varies |
The main fee is paid via eCitizen. Any embassy surcharges are paid directly at the mission in local currency.
Special Circumstances
Name Change on Passport
If your name has changed (e.g., through marriage), you need additional documents: marriage certificate, deed poll, or gazette notice. Read the full name change guide.
Lost or Stolen Passport
If your passport is lost or stolen, you must first file a police report, then apply for a replacement (not a renewal). See the lost passport procedure.
Damaged Passport
A damaged passport must be replaced. Bring the damaged passport to the embassy along with your renewal application. The same fee and process applies.
Renewing for Children
Both parents must consent to passport renewal for minors under 18. Additional documents include the child's birth certificate and both parents' ID cards. If one parent is unavailable, a court order or consent letter may be required.