The department established a Migrant Labour desk to enhance the fast-tracking of passport applications.
The State Department for Immigration and Citizen Services has announced the setting up of a new desk for Kenyans seeking employment in other countries, in line with President William Ruto’s promise that those Kenyans will have their passport applications expedited.
In a statement dated July 31 by Immigration Principal Secretary (PS), Julius Bitok, the department established a Migrant Labour desk to enhance the fast-tracking of passport applications.
However, to achieve this, applicants seeking the service were asked to present the required documents to show intent during the process.
“In line with the Presidential directive to facilitate travel for Kenyans pursuing job opportunities outside the country, we have set up dedicated Migrant Labour counters to fast-track passport applications.
Immigration PS, Julius Bitok speaking during a consultative meeting at Sarova Whitesands Hotel in Mombasa on July 12, 2024. /JULIUS BITOK
“Applicants seeking this service are advised to present their papers, which must include documents of proof of intent issued by the relevant institution,” the statement read in part.
Bitok further noted that the department was continuously reviewing its operations and investing in human resources, modern equipment, and technologies to enhance efficiency and the quality of clients’ experiences.
The department also revealed that it has reformed its processes to decongest workstations and speed up its services. As a result of these interventions, it has cleared the historical backlog of unprinted passports in its systems.
However, Bitok revealed that the department was holding 110,059 uncollected passports in its offices, warning Kenyans yet to collect them that they will be disposed of in six months.
“To free up limited storage space, applicants are notified that DIS will dispose of all uncollected passports Six (6) months from the date of this notice.
“This is in line with the following laws and regulations: Section 31 of the Kenya Citizenship and Immigration Act and Regulations, Disposal of Uncollected Goods Act (CAP 38) and International Civil Aviation Organisation (ICAO) regulations on the delivery of travel documents,” he remarked.
To ease passport delivery, the Immigration Department announced that it had suspended the requirement for applicants to book an appointment to collect their passports.
Kenyans seeking to know their passport application status were directed to send a Short Message Service (SMS) with their eCitizen tracking number.
President William Ruto addressing residents of Likoni, Kwale County on July 27, 2024. /PCS