The East African passport with a light blue cover is issued to Kenyan citizens for travel within the East African Community (EAC). It is a valuable travel document that allows Kenyan passport holders to visit and stay in EAC member countries, namely Tanzania, Uganda, Rwanda, and Burundi, for multiple entries and a maximum duration of six months per visit. Below are the requirements for obtaining a temporary permit to travel within the EAC region using the East African passport:
- Kenyan Citizenship: To be eligible for the East African passport, you must be a Kenyan citizen. Ensure you have the necessary documents to prove your Kenyan citizenship, such as a Kenyan national ID, birth certificate, or other valid identification documents.
- Completed Passport Application Form: Obtain a copy of the East African passport application form from the relevant government authority or embassy. Complete the form accurately, following the provided instructions.
- Passport Photographs: You will typically need two recent passport-size photographs that meet the specified requirements regarding size, background, and appearance. These photos should be attached to your passport application form.
- Payment of Fees: Pay the required passport application fees, which can vary depending on your age, processing time, and any additional services you may request (such as expedited processing). Keep the payment receipt as proof of payment.
- Supporting Documents: Depending on the issuing authority’s requirements, you may need to provide additional documents such as:
- Proof of Travel: It’s advisable to have a clear travel itinerary or an invitation from a host in one of the EAC member countries.
- Residence Permit: If you are a resident in one of the EAC countries and not a Kenyan citizen, you may need to provide a valid residence permit for that country.
- Identification: Carry your Kenyan national ID or any other valid identification as proof of your identity.
- Submission of Application: Submit your completed application form, photographs, supporting documents, and payment receipt to the relevant government passport issuance office, embassy, or consulate. Ensure that you submit your application well in advance of your intended travel date, as processing times may vary.
- Biometric Data Collection: Be prepared to have your biometric data (such as fingerprints and a digital photograph) collected during the application process. This is a standard procedure for modern passport issuance.
- Interview or Biometric Enrollment: In some cases, you may be required to attend an interview or biometric enrollment session at the passport issuance office.
- Waiting Period: Allow for the processing time, which can vary depending on the demand and the type of service you requested. Keep your receipt as it may be needed for tracking the status of your application.
- Collection: Once your East African passport is ready, you will be notified to collect it from the passport office or embassy where you submitted your application. Ensure that you have a safe and secure place to keep your passport during your travels.
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