Over 57,000 Printed Passports Yet to Be Collected, Immigration PS Tells Lawmakers
Despite these efforts, committee members expressed concern over delays in processing work permits and permanent residency applications for foreigners.
Over 57,000 printed passports remain uncollected at various immigration centres across the country, the State Department for Immigration and Citizen Services has revealed. Photo/KBC Digital.
By Robert Assad
Over 57,000 printed passports remain uncollected at various immigration centres across the country, the State Department for Immigration and Citizen Services has revealed.
Speaking during a meeting with the Parliamentary Committee on Regional Integration, Principal Secretary Dr. Belio Kipsang said that despite efforts to notify applicants through SMS, a total of 57,334 passports had not been picked up as of June 9, 2025.
“In 2024 alone, we issued 621,805 passports and streamlined the issuance process significantly. However, we still have tens of thousands uncollected, even after notifying applicants,” Dr. Kipsang told the committee.
The meeting, chaired by Hon. Irene Mayaka, was aimed at assessing the ongoing reforms and upgrades within the department’s infrastructure. These improvements are designed to speed up processing and enhance service delivery.
Dr. Kipsang outlined a number of reforms, including the acquisition of two modern passport personalization machines, procurement of one million passport booklets, recruitment of 286 new officers, and in-house training on integrity and customer care.
Despite these efforts, committee members expressed concern over delays in processing work permits and permanent residency applications for foreigners. They also challenged the department to adopt more proactive communication strategies to ensure applicants are aware when their documents are ready.
“Some of these passports may belong to Kenyans seeking employment abroad. Others applied through cybercafés and may not even own mobile phones. The department must do more than just send SMS alerts,” said Kipipiri MP Hon. Wanjiku Muhia.
Committee chairperson Hon. Irene Mayaka urged the department to utilize networks already available, including Members of Parliament, to spread the word to local communities.
“MPs have direct channels to reach their constituents. Use us to help communicate and ensure citizens collect their passports,” she added.
To further probe the issue, the Committee announced plans to conduct a physical inspection of the Department’s passport section to evaluate the end-to-end process — from application to printing and collection.
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