Kenyans scrambling for travel documents were left frustrated this week after passport booklet options suddenly disappeared from the eCitizen platform. Now, the government has broken its silence—offering reassurance amid growing anxiety among applicants.
The Directorate of Immigration Services on Friday acknowledged widespread complaints from passport seekers who found that A and B Series passport booklets were unavailable on eCitizen, effectively stalling new applications and renewals.
In a statement dated February 6, the department confirmed it was fully aware of the disruption and insisted that corrective measures were already underway.
“The Directorate of Immigration Services is apprised of concerns raised by passport applicants on the unavailability of A and B Series booklets in the eCitizen application portal,” the agency said.
“Measures have been put in place to ensure that all passport applications are processed in a timely manner without causing inconvenience to applicants.”
While the government did not specify the exact cause of the temporary unavailability, immigration officials emphasized that resolving the issue is a top priority, citing their mandate to facilitate travel and ensure seamless service delivery.
“We reaffirm our commitment to facilitate travel in line with our mandate as we make efforts to ensure that all passport series are available. We appreciate the public’s patience,” the statement added.
The assurance comes at a time when demand for passports has surged, fueled by international travel, job opportunities abroad, and increased uptake of online government services.
The passport hiccup also coincides with heightened government concern over migration risks, particularly following revelations that dozens of Kenyans were stranded in Oman after falling victim to fraudulent recruitment agents.
A high-level meeting on February 5 between Kenyan and Omani officials flagged the growing number of Kenyans lured abroad on false job promises—many travelling on tourist visas in violation of Omani employment laws.
The Omani Ambassador to Kenya, Amb. Nasra Salim Mohamed Al-Hashmi, issued a clear warning:
Oman does not issue tourist visas to Kenyans for employment purposes. Job seekers must follow official and approved channels.
Passport booklet unavailability on eCitizen is temporary, according to Immigration.
Applications will not be delayed, the government insists.
Kenyans are urged to remain patient as system fixes are implemented.
Job seekers abroad should verify opportunities through official channels only to avoid fraud.
As pressure mounts online and at immigration offices, all eyes are now on how quickly the government restores full passport services—and whether confidence in eCitizen can be fully rebuilt.