The process of applying for an ID in Kenya can be quite a hectic experience. The following guidelines are to make it easier for you. These steps are only to be followed by Kenyan citizens. They may vary from place to place with Kisauni used as an example.
How To Apply For ID In Kenya
- In order to apply for a new national identity card, one needs to visit the Office of the registrar of persons in your District.
- You will be required to submit the required documents TO THE OFFICER in charge when making the application. These documents include a copy and original birth certificate and a copy of your parents identity card
(a). You can also produce your school leaving certificate if you do not have your birth certificate.
(b). You can also produce your parent’s death certificate if they are deceased.
3. After submitting the required documents you will be issued with an application form number 23 to fill and submit back to the registrar of person’s office. This form can be found in any office of a register of persons and all District officers’ offices.
4. Once you have form 23, you need to fill it and then take it to the chief or assistant chief of your area. This is for verification that you are from that area. After the form has been signed by the chief or the assistant chief, you take it to the district officer’s office for it to be scrutinized and verified. This is followed by the signing of the form by the District officer.
5. After that, the form goes through the following stages: Fingerprints section- The applicant’s fingerprints impressions are taken; Attachment of the passport photos. Then the form is sent to the officers responsible for processing of the national ID.
6. You will use the waiting card to collect the national ID once it has been issued.
7. The national ID takes approximately a period of one month to complete.
National ID Card Registration
- Each applicant has to appear in person with a dully filled REG.136D form.
- Applications for National IDs will be accepted on Tuesdays and Thursdays by appointment only ( Summer 9:30 am – 4:00 pm: Winter 9:30 am – 3:00 pm )
- The processing of IDs will take approximately 4 to 6 weeks from the date of application.
- All applicants are required to bring (3) three pictures taken on a white background; following these dimensions 35mm x 45mm (3.5 cm x 4.5 cm)(1.38×1.77 inches). You may take a 2″ x 2″ passport size picture but make sure your face appears small (fits within the 1.38×1.77 inches) dimensions. Distance between you and the cameraman will help create this effect. sample below:
Please note that holders of first-generation (large ID) are considered first-time applicants and should fulfil all the requirements as indicated below under section I.
REQUIREMENTS
I. First-time applicants and holders of 1st generation identity card
- Duly filled form Reg.136A (availed at the Consulate)
- Original and Copy of the Birth Certificate of the applicant
- Original and Copy of Valid Kenyan passport of the applicant
- Copy of Kenyan Identity Card of either parent of the applicant or copy of Kenyan Passport of either parent (where applicable)
- The original 1st generation Identity card (Requirement for holders of 1st generation Identity card)
Can I Apply for Kenya ID Online?
You can apply for your ID using the online service at ehome.dha.gov.za/echannel.
How long does it take to process an ID in Kenya?
The processing of IDs will take approximately 4 to 6 weeks from the date of application.