William Ruto Says Kenyans Can Get Passports within 3 Days after Applying

William Ruto Says Kenyans Can Get Passports within 3 Days after Applying

President William Ruto has announced a significant shift in passport processing timelines, stating that Kenyans with urgent travel needs—particularly those seeking employment abroad—can now receive their passports within days of application.

Speaking during the inauguration of the 19th Ambassadors and High Commissioners Conference in Nairobi on Saturday, March 28, the Head of State outlined his administration’s broader strategy to streamline labour migration and enhance access to international job markets.

The president emphasized that Kenya’s workforce continues to gain global recognition, describing the country’s human capital as a valuable export in the modern economy.

“We have one of the best human capital in the world, and we are using it as part of our export. We are cleaning up the channel for accessing jobs overseas,” Ruto said.

Faster passport processing for job seekers

Central to the reforms is the acceleration of passport issuance, particularly for Kenyans who have already secured employment opportunities abroad. According to the president, the government has drastically reduced processing times as part of efforts to eliminate bureaucratic delays that have historically hindered labour mobility.

“With what we have done, we have cut down the time for accessing travel papers, including passports. Today it takes two days for those with employment abroad,” he stated.

The announcement marks a departure from previous timelines that often saw applicants wait weeks or even months to obtain travel documents, a challenge that had led to missed job opportunities and frustration among applicants.

Ruto noted that the expedited process is supported by a newly “cleaned” system designed to prioritise genuine applicants while reducing inefficiencies.

Crackdown on fraudulent recruitment agencies

The president also addressed longstanding concerns about fraud in overseas job recruitment, revealing that the government has intensified efforts to eliminate rogue agents and brokers who have exploited job seekers.

“We had too many agencies and brokers who defrauded people of their money. We are still reorganising that space,” he said.

Authorities have since moved to streamline recruitment through verified channels, including platforms managed by the National Employment Authority, which is tasked with regulating and facilitating overseas employment opportunities.

The reforms aim to restore public confidence in labour migration programs while ensuring that Kenyans can safely access legitimate opportunities abroad.

Rising demand for Kenyan workers globally

Ruto reiterated that Kenyan workers are increasingly sought after in international markets, citing their skills, professionalism, and adaptability as key factors driving demand.

He highlighted traits such as fluency in English, technical competence, and awareness of labour rights as competitive advantages that distinguish Kenyan workers globally.

The president pointed to countries including the United States, Germany, France, United Arab Emirates, Saudi Arabia, Qatar, and Austria as leading destinations for Kenyan workers.

According to government data shared during the event, more than 536,000 Kenyans have already secured employment opportunities abroad under the labour mobility programme.

Economic impact of labour export

Beyond employment, the government views labour migration as a key pillar of economic growth. Ruto noted that remittances from Kenyans working abroad have consistently boosted the country’s foreign exchange reserves.

Over the past three years, diaspora remittances have generated an average annual surplus of approximately $1 billion, underscoring the sector’s growing importance to the national economy.

To further support job seekers, the president said the government is also exploring mechanisms to assist workers who may lack the financial resources to facilitate travel, including potential support for airfare and documentation.

A shift toward efficiency and opportunity

The latest announcement signals a broader policy shift aimed at reducing administrative bottlenecks and positioning Kenya as a competitive supplier of skilled labour on the global stage.

While implementation will be closely monitored, the promise of faster passport processing is expected to ease access to overseas employment and improve confidence among applicants navigating the system.

As the government continues to refine its approach, the focus remains on balancing efficiency, accountability, and the protection of Kenyan workers seeking opportunities beyond the country’s borders.

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William Ruto Says Kenyans Can Get Passports within 3 Days after Applying