Kenyan Immigration Advises Passport Upgrade for Urgent Travel

The Kenyan Department of Immigration and Citizen Services has announced new measures to address the backlog of passport applications.

The department is encouraging applicants who previously requested 34-page booklets to consider upgrading to the 50-page option in a bid to expedite processing, particularly for those with urgent travel needs. This can be done conveniently through the e-Citizen online platform, eliminating the need for a physical visit to immigration offices. According to the department, Passport issuance will continue to be prioritized based on the application sequence. This initiative comes alongside a recent influx of passport booklets totalling 112,700 including the 50-page variety (92,400) and additional options with 66 pages (20,300).

This follows a previous delivery of 50,000 booklets. The department has invested in two state-of-the-art printing machines and upgraded server infrastructure to enhance efficiency and data security. These new machines are expected to be operational by April 2024. The department also reminds applicants who have already received their passports to collect them promptly to minimize further backlog. It's important to remember that the type of passport booklet issued depends on the number of pages the applicant paid for at the time of application.

The immigration authorities have intensified their efforts to clear the accumulated applications prompted by an outdated printer and a shortage of printing booklets. Bitok emphasizes that applications are being processed on a first-come first-served basis. Cabinet Secretary Kindiki recently acknowledged the frustration and hardship faced by many Kenyans who require passports for various purposes including employment opportunities, medical treatment, education, business, or leisure travel.

Accepting blame for the delay in progress, Kindiki stated, "The current situation is unacceptable, considering that every Kenyan has the right to obtain citizenship documents, including travel documents. As the Cabinet Secretary responsible for passport issuance, I take full responsibility for the slow pace of reforms and the existing system inefficiencies."

Kindiki attributed the sluggish progress to inadequate investment in production infrastructure over the years, resulting in mounting supplier debts and corrupt practices. However, he pledged to address the challenges surrounding passport issuance effectively to achieve efficiency and timely service delivery as quickly as possible.