How Kenyans Can Apply for the East African Passport

The East African Passport is a regional travel document issued to East African Community (EAC) citizens. It allows for easier travel within the East African region, providing visa-free or visa-on-arrival access to other member states. Here’s a guide on how Kenyans can apply for the East African Passport:

Eligibility Requirements

To apply for the East African Passport, you must be:

A Kenyan citizen.
A resident of Kenya, with valid proof of identity.

Steps to Apply for the East African Passport

1. Gather Required Documents

Ensure you have the following documents ready:

Kenyan National ID (for citizens aged 18 and above).
Birth Certificate (for individuals under 18 years old).
Photocopy of your KRA PIN certificate.
Passport-size photographs: Typically, you will need to provide 2 to 4 passport photos that meet the required specifications.
Evidence of citizenship: This could be your Kenyan National ID or a birth certificate.
EAC Community member identification (if applicable).

2. Visit the E-Passport Application Portal

Go to the e-citizen portal at www.ecitizen.go.ke.
Create an account or log in if you already have one.

3. Choose the Passport Type

Once logged in, navigate to the Immigration and Registration of Persons section.
Select the East African Passport option.
Follow the instructions to select the type of passport (single or multiple entry) you wish to apply for.

4. Complete the Application Form

Fill in the necessary personal details in the form, including your full name, address, and place of birth.
Provide the details for the documents required (National ID, photographs, etc.).

5. Pay the Application Fee

After filling in the form, you will be required to make payment for the passport application fee.
- The current fee for the East African Passport is KES 4,550 for adults (over 18 years) and KES 2,550 for children (under 18 years).
Payment can be made through the eCitizen payment gateway using a debit card, mobile money (M-Pesa), or bank transfer.

6. Submit the Application

After payment, you will be required to submit your application. Ensure you review all the information to avoid any mistakes.

7. Book an Appointment

After submitting your application, book an appointment to visit the immigration office for biometric data capture.
The nearest Passport Application Centre (PAC) will contact you with the appointment details.

8. Visit the Passport Application Centre (PAC)

On the appointed day, visit the Passport Application Centre with the required documents:
- Original copies of the National ID or Birth Certificate (for minors).
- Passport-sized photos.
- Any additional supporting documents.
Your biometric data (fingerprints and photographs) will be captured.

9. Collect Your Passport

After your application is processed, you will be notified when your East African Passport is ready for collection.
You can collect your passport from the Passport Application Centre where you submitted your application, or you may opt to have it delivered.

Read: List of Visa-Free Countries for Ugandan Passport Holders

Processing Time

The processing time for the East African Passport typically takes 2 to 3 weeks from the date of your appointment.

Where to Apply

eCitizen Portal: Most of the application process is done online via the eCitizen portal.
Passport Application Centres (PACs): Once you’ve completed the application and made payment, you will visit a designated PAC to finalize the application and collect your biometric data.

Important TakeAways

Ensure the information you provide on the application form is accurate to avoid delays or rejections.
The East African Passport is valid for 5 years for adults and 3 years for minors.
If you already have a regular Kenyan passport, you may choose to apply for the East African Passport as a second passport, or you can renew your regular passport when it expires.

By following these steps, you can apply for the East African Passport and enjoy the benefits of easier travel within the East African Community.