The Directorate of Immigration Services has downscaled its operations in the issuance of passports in a bid to curb the spread of COVID-19.
The department in a statement said that it has since cancelled all current appointments for the submission of passport applications and biometric enrolment.
“Directorate of Immigration Services @ImmigrationDept has cancelled current appointments for submission of passport applications and biometrics enrolment. This is in line with Government directive to scale down,” the department tweeted.
Following the cancellation, applicants have been urged to book new submission dates starting Monday, November 9.
“Passport applicants are requested to book afresh new submission dates convenient to them effective Monday, November 9th, 2020.”
The Immigration Department, however, stated that it will give exempt emergency cases such as government assignments, scholarships and jobs abroad.
They can contact the Directorate through Hotline 0110 922065.
However, one must provide documentary evidence to prove the urgency.
This move comes as Kenya heads to the second wave of COVID-19 and the government is taking all measures to ensure that the spread of the virus is maintained in every way possible.
Earlier, the Directorate announced that issuance of e-visa will begin in January 2021.
In a statement sent to newsrooms dated November 2, the Immigration department said that those seeking to enter Kenya from countries that require a visa to be in Kenya can now obtain one from the new service.
They should have the e-visa before boarding a plane to Kenya.
“The E-visa can be obtained through www.evisa.go.ke,” Deputy Director of Immigration services Alicent Odipo said in the Statement.
