Types of Passports in Kenya, Costs and Essential Documents

For the adventurous spirit or the international business enthusiast, having a passport is more than just a travel necessity - it's a ticket to the world. But did you know there are different types of passports available in Kenya? What are these types, and how much will it cost me? Here, we unveil the different types of Kenyan passports, their prices, and related travel documents.

Key Takeaways:

1. Kenya offers a variety of passport types depending on your needs and status.
2. Costs for passports vary, but they're an investment in global access.
3. Recent advancements, like the e-passport, incorporate advanced technology.
4. Being part of the East African Community, Kenya offers a unique passport variant for regional travel.
5. The application process is digitized, but there are vital physical requirements.
6. Lost or damaged passports come with their own set of procedures and costs.

Types of Kenyan Passports and Their Costs

In Kenya, passports are issued to citizens for international travel. The prices and types of passports vary depending on your needs. Let's take a closer look:

READ ALSO: Kenyan Passport Tracking: Guide to Checking Status Online or via SMS

1. Diplomatic Passport (Maroon Cover)

Reserved for high-ranking government officials and ambassadors, the diplomatic passport carries a maroon cover. This exclusive passport is granted to individuals like the president, deputy president, cabinet secretaries, and Chief Justice. It's more than just a travel document; it symbolizes diplomatic representation.

• Cost - Ksh. 7,550.00

2. Ordinary Passport (Light Blue Cover)

The ordinary passport is the most common type, issued to regular citizens for international travel. Its light blue cover distinguishes it from other passports. The ordinary passport is valid for ten years and is suitable for business trips, vacations, and personal travel.

• 34 Pages - Ksh. 4,550.00
• 50 Pages - Ksh. 6,050.00
• 66 Pages - Ksh. 7,550.00

3. East Africa Passport

The East African passport is your companion for travel within the East African Community (EAC). It's valid for six months and facilitates hassle-free movement across countries like Tanzania, Uganda, Rwanda, and Burundi.

• Duration - 6 Months
• Cost - Specific to the EAC agreement

4. Mutilated Passport

A mutilated passport has undergone intentional alteration. If you find yourself with a damaged passport, it's crucial to replace it. The process involves submitting necessary documents, including an application form, ID, and the damaged passport. A fee of Ksh. 10,050 applies.

• Cost - Ksh. 10,050.00

5. Temporary Passport

Intending to travel outside Kenya? The temporary passport is valid for a year and is ideal for trips within East African nations. It's an alternative to a business visa and offers ease of travel for a limited period.

• Cost - Ksh. 350

6. Lost Passport

Losing your passport can be a nightmare, especially when you're about to embark on a journey. If this happens, report the loss to the nearest Kenyan embassy or consulate immediately to prevent unauthorized use.

• Cost - Ksh. 12,050.00

7. Certificate of Identity (For Foreigners)

A certificate of identity is issued to non-citizens living in Kenya who cannot obtain a passport from their home country. It's an essential travel document for foreigners residing within Kenya's borders.

• Cost - Ksh. 3,050.00

Summarizing the types of Kenyan passports and their associated costs:

READ ALSO: Visa-Free Countries for Kenyan Passport Holders

Are there any additional benefits or privileges associated with diplomatic passports?

A diplomatic passport is one issued to diplomats and other high-ranking government officials. It provides the holder with several benefits and privileges, including:

Visa-Free Entry

One of the most significant benefits of a diplomatic passport is visa-free entry to most countries. This means that the holder of a diplomatic passport can enter and exit a country without applying for a visa. This can save time and hassle, especially when traveling to multiple countries.

Priority Processing

Diplomatic passport holders also receive priority processing at immigration checkpoints. This means they can skip the long lines and quickly get through customs. This can be especially helpful when traveling during peak travel times.

Tax Exemption

Diplomatic passport holders are often exempt from paying taxes on income earned outside their home country. This can be a significant financial benefit, especially for those who travel frequently for work.

Diplomatic Immunity

Diplomatic immunity is one of the most important benefits of a diplomatic passport. It gives the holder legal protection from prosecution in the host country. This means that they cannot be arrested, detained, or sued without the consent of their home government.

Access to Diplomatic Facilities and Services

Diplomatic passport holders also have access to diplomatic facilities and services in the host country. This includes things like embassies, consulates, and military bases. These facilities can provide a haven for diplomatic passport holders in an emergency.

What countries can I travel to with an East Africa passport?

ast Africans may use valid national passports to travel within the region, or use the East African Passport, which was introduced as a travel document to ease border crossing for East Africans. Currently, the East African Passport may be used for travel within the EAC region only. It has a six months multiple-entry validity, one of the privileges it accords to the holder. The 13 countries are Burundi, Comoros, Djibouti, Ethiopia, Eritrea, Kenya, Rwanda, Seychelles, Somalia, South Sudan, Sudan, Tanzania, and Uganda.

How to Apply for an Ordinary Passport in Kenya

 In Kenya, the Directorate of Immigration Services (DIS) is responsible for issuing passports. There are two ways to apply for an ordinary passport in Kenya: online and in person.

Online Application Process

To apply for an ordinary passport online, you must create an eCitizen account and complete the online application form. You can find the application form on the DIS website. The online application form requires you to provide the following information:

• Your full name
• Your date of birth
• Your place of birth
• Your national identity card number
• Your passport number (if you have one)
• Your contact information
• Your email address
• Your mailing address
• Your passport photo

You must pay the application fee after completing the online application form. The application fee for an ordinary passport is Ksh. 4,550 for a 34-page passport, Ksh. 6,050 for a 50-page passport, and Ksh. 7,550 for a 66-page passport.

After you have paid the application fee, you must book an appointment at a DIS passport office. You can book an appointment online or by calling the DIS call center. On the day of your appointment, you will need to bring the following documents to the DIS passport office:

• Your eCitizen account login details
• Your payment receipt
• Your passport photo
• Your original national identity card
• A copy of your birth certificate (if you are applying for a passport for the first time)

The DIS passport officer will review your application and documents. If your application is approved, you will be issued a passport.

In-Person Application Process

You must visit a DIS passport office to apply for an ordinary passport in person. You can find a list of DIS passport offices on the DIS website. The in-person application process is similar to the online application process. You must provide the same information and documents to the DIS passport officer. The application fee for an ordinary passport is the same whether you apply online or in person. The processing time for an ordinary passport is three weeks. However, the processing time may be longer during peak travel seasons.

Director Of Immigration Contacts

Final Thoughts

As you plan your international journeys, understanding the different types of Kenyan passports and their prices is crucial. Whether you're a government official, a student studying abroad, or a curious traveler, having the correct passport for your needs ensures smooth travel. Remember to keep your passport safe and abide by the travel regulations of the countries you're visiting. Safe travels await you!

FAQs

What's the most common type of passport in Kenya?

• The Ordinary Passport is the most widely held among Kenyans.

Can I hold multiple ordinary passports?

• No, Kenyan law prohibits holding multiple ordinary passports at the same time.

How long is the ordinary passport valid?

• It's valid for ten years.

What should I do if I lose my passport overseas?

• Report the loss immediately to the nearest Kenyan embassy or consulate.

What are the benefits of the East African Passport?

• It facilitates easy travel between member countries of the East African Community.

How has the new e-passport improved the travel experience for Kenyans?

• It has an embedded chip for enhanced security, ensuring smoother travel and reducing cases of identity fraud.

Disclaimer:

The prices and information provided in this article are accurate as of the time of writing. They are subject to change based on the official policies of the Kenyan government. Always refer to the official website or consult the relevant authorities before making decisions.