How To Apply For a Kenyan Identity Card

Having a valid Kenyan ID card will allow you to access government services, open a bank account, apply for a visa or work permit, and even obtain insurance. It is also used as an official form of identification in cases of business transactions, applications for passports, and many other activities in Kenya.
 

In this article, we will take you through the steps you need to take to successfully apply for your Kenyan identity card. The whole process can be overwhelming at the start, but with the right guidance and help from our experts, you will be able to complete your application quickly and efficiently. 
 

We will also provide helpful tips and advice on how to make sure you have all the necessary documents ready for your next visit to the immigration office.

National ID Card Requirements for Kenyan Citizens
 

In order to apply for a Kenyan National ID Card, you must meet specific provisions:

• Being 18 years of age or above
• Being a Kenyan citizen

Documentary Requirements for Applying for Kenyan National ID Card

Applying for a Kenyan id card involves several documentary requirements. You will need to supply certain documents and pay fees to get your ID card.
 

In order to apply for a Kenyan national ID, you will need to provide the following:
 

• Means of identification, such as a passport or driving license
• Valid postal address 
• Two passport-sized photographs taken against a light background within the last six months 
• A certified copy of your Kenyan birth certificate or adoption certificate 
• A confirmation or proof  of residence, for example, a utility bill 
• Parents' National Identity Cards or Passport numbers 
• National Immigration documents if applicable 
• The applicable application fee
   

You may also be required to provide additional information, depending on the agency you are applying through. Be sure to check their website or contact them directly for an up-to-date list of all the documentation they require.

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How to Apply for a Kenya National ID
 

Applying for a Kenya National ID is straightforward and can be done either online or in person with physical documents.

1. How to apply for a Kenyan ID online

Applying for an identity card online may seem intimidating, but the process is straightforward and concise. Once you have assembled your documents and payment information, you can proceed with the online application process. 
 

• Visit the official Immigration Department website.
• Fill out the application form with valid personal data. This includes name, gender, address, and phone number.
• Upload required documents like birth certificates and passport photos.
• Pay the applicable fee via debit/credit card or the Mpesa platform (mobile money).
• Upon successful payment, submit your application form and wait for further instructions from the Immigration Department for further processing of your ID Card application.
   

2. How to apply for a Kenyan ID in person

• Visit your nearest Huduma Center with the required documents.
• Fill out a hardcopy application form.
• Submit your application along with payment of any applicable fees.
   

After submitting your application, you will receive an acknowledgement slip containing details about your application and tracking number to follow up on its progress online or through mobile SMS service. Once your application is processed, you will be issued a National Identity Card which you can use for various purposes in Kenya. 

How Much is The Fee to Apply For a Kenyan Identity Card? 
 

The fee for a Kenyan id card is Kshs 1000 ($10). This payment must be paid in order to finalize the application process. Additionally, you may be required to pay a processing fee of Kshs 500 ($5). 
 

Be sure to check with the agency you are applying through for any additional fees that may be required.

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Things to Note for Dual Citizens

If you are a dual citizen of Kenya and another country, you will need to adhere to the following additional guidelines when applying for your Kenyan identity card:
 

1. Provide supporting documentation to show that you are a dual citizen. 
2. This includes a valid passport from the other country and a Kenyan passport.
3. You must have been living in Kenya for at least 180 days before applying for a Kenyan identity card.
4. You must have valid proof of residency in Kenya, including rental agreements or ownership papers for your residence.
5. You will need to provide the original copies of all paperwork as well as photocopies, including your birth certificate and any other required documents such as your marriage license or work permit forms.
6. Your application should be submitted in person at the nearest immigration office or authorized government agency with your original documents as well as two passport-sized photos and a fee payment receipt for the processing fee.

What are the National ID Requirements for Dual Citizens?
 

Dual citizens require a few different documents to apply for a Kenyan identity card. These include:  
 

• The original and valid foreign passport or travel document marked with the nation of origin/citizenship 
• A valid Kenyan passport or travel document 
• An attestation form, including two passport-size photos, signed by an authorized Kenyan official.
• You may also be asked to provide additional documents such as academic certificates, birth certificates, or military service records in some cases. 
   

Once you have collected the necessary documents, you must submit them to the relevant government bodies in Kenya in order to receive your new identity card.

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How to Replace A Lost Kenyan Identity Card

If your Kenyan National Identity card is lost, stolen, or damaged, do not worry – getting a replacement is easy. Here is how to get a new Kenya National Identity card:
 

1. Visit the Kenya National Registration Bureau (NRB) office in your area.
2. Fill out an application form – you may need to provide evidence of identity, such as your birth certificate or passport.
3. Submit two passport-size photographs, and pay the applicable fee.
4. The NRB will process your request and mail you the new card within 2 weeks after the submission of all required documents. 
5. Your old card will be automatically invalidated once you receive the new one.
6. Don't forget to sign your card when it arrives!
    

Getting a replacement Kenyan National Identity card is a straightforward process that should take no more than 2 weeks. So if something happens to your National ID Card, don’t panic! Just follow these steps and you will have a new one in no time.

Also, here is a guide on how to replace a lost birth certificate in Kenya
 

Final Thoughts

Applying for a Kenyan Identity Card is a straightforward process when you have all the required documentation. All applicants should submit a valid national passport, birth certificate, and other relevant documentation. Dual citizens should also note the requirements regarding dual citizenship and the need to submit a special declaration.
 

By ensuring all the necessary documents are in order and any special circumstances have been determined and addressed, the process of applying for a Kenyan Identity Card should be hassle-free and efficient. 
 

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