How to Apply for a Kenya Passport for a Child on eCitizen

Applying for a Kenya passport for a child on eCitizen is faster than the old manual process, though the system still has its quirks. The good news: you can complete most of it from home. The catch: you'll still need to visit a Huduma Centre for biometric capture.

Start by visiting ecitizen.go.ke and logging in with your credentials. If you don't have an account, create one using your ID number and a valid email. The portal works best on desktop browsers, though the mobile version functions adequately.

Gather the Required Documents First

Before you start the application, have these documents ready and scanned as PDFs:

• Your child's birth certificate (original or certified copy)
• Your national ID (both sides)
• Proof of citizenship for the child — typically their birth certificate
• A recent colour passport photo (35mm x 45mm) in digital format
• Marriage certificate or single parent affidavit, depending on your situation

The birth certificate matters most. If it's not registered with the national registry, expect delays. Get it registered first at your local Chief's office if needed — this costs nothing but takes time.

For the passport photo, use a studio photograph, not a selfie. The photo must have a white background, clear face visibility, and no accessories. Many Nairobi studios know the exact requirements; expect to pay KSh 200–500 for a digital copy.

Completing the eCitizen Application

Once logged in, navigate to the Immigration section and select "Passport Application — Child." Fill in your child's details: full name (exactly as on the birth certificate), date of birth, and place of birth.

Upload the scanned documents in the specified formats. The portal accepts PDFs and JPG files under 5MB each. File names matter — use simple names without special characters.

Select your preferred Huduma Centre for biometric capture. This is mandatory; there's no way around it. Choose a location convenient for you — Nairobi has multiple centres, as do most county towns. Booking a slot in advance through the portal reduces waiting time significantly.

Payment happens after you submit. The portal directs you to pay via M-Pesa or card. Check the official portal for current fees; child passports typically cost less than adult ones. After payment confirmation, you'll receive an application reference number by email.

The Huduma Centre Visit

This step cannot be skipped. You and your child must visit the booked Huduma Centre on your appointment date. Bring printed copies of your application confirmation and the original birth certificate.

Staff will capture your child's biometrics — fingerprints and a photograph. The process takes 15–30 minutes if you arrive on time. Children under five sometimes get exceptions for fingerprinting; ask the officer at your centre.

After biometric capture, your application moves to the Immigration Department for processing. Processing times vary, but expect two to four weeks. You can track progress using your reference number on eCitizen.

If you hit roadblocks during the application, eCitizen experts on Kaziiko can walk you through problem areas or handle submission on your behalf. Some parents find this worth the small fee, especially if they're unfamiliar with the portal.

Frequently Asked Questions

Can I apply for a child's passport without a birth certificate?

No. The birth certificate is the foundation of the application. If your child isn't officially registered, register them first at your local Chief's office or the county health department.

How long does a child passport actually take?

Processing officially takes 14–21 days from biometric capture, but delays happen. Budget for four weeks to be safe. Express processing exists but costs significantly more; ask at the Huduma Centre.

What if my child cries or refuses fingerprinting at the Huduma Centre?

Staff are accustomed to this. Bring someone your child trusts, and arrive early when centres are less crowded. For very young children, officers may allow you to hold them during biometrics.

Can I collect the passport myself or does my child need to be present?

You can collect it yourself using your reference number and ID. Your child doesn't need to attend collection, which makes the process convenient for working parents.