How to Register for eCitizen Kenya — Step-by-Step Guide (2025)

Follow this friendly step-by-step guide to create your official eCitizen account, verify it, and start accessing government services online — without queues.

Why register for eCitizen?

eCitizen is Kenya’s official online portal for government services — everything from passports and driving licenses to business registration and tax services. Creating an account gives you a secure single sign-in for dozens of government services, and saves time and trips to physical offices.

Before you start — what you’ll need

• A working email address you can access immediately
• A mobile phone number (Kenyan number preferred; diaspora options are available)
• Kenyan National ID (for citizens) or Passport (for foreigners)
• Good internet access and a browser (Chrome, Edge, Safari)

Step-by-step: How to register on eCitizen

1. Go to the official portal: Open https://accounts.ecitizen.go.ke and click Register / Create Account.
2. Choose account type: Pick the category that applies — Citizen, Foreigner, Diplomat, Refugee or Minor.
3. For Kenyan citizens: enter your National ID number, first name and year of birth, then click Validate. The system validates details with the National Registration Bureau.
4. Provide contact details: enter your email address and mobile number (used for OTPs and service notifications).
5. Create a secure password: use at least 8 characters with a mix of letters and numbers; confirm it.
6. Verify your email & phone: click the verification link sent to your email, and enter the SMS/OTP code sent to your phone when prompted.
7. Sign in: once verified, log in with your ID number (or email) and password. You may be asked for an OTP on login for extra security.
8. Complete your profile: add other profile details if asked (address, PIN, etc.). You’re ready to apply for services like passport, NTSA, KRA, and more.

Tip: Always confirm you are on accounts.ecitizen.go.ke (bookmark it!) to avoid phishing sites.

What happens after registration?

After you register, you can apply and pay for government services (many services accept mobile money). Keep an eye on your eCitizen dashboard — application history and receipts are stored there.

Troubleshooting — common hiccups

• ID not found: double-check the number and spelling. If it persists, the NRB record may not be up to date — contact support.
• OTP not received: try resending, ensure your network has sms service, or use a different phone number if available.
• Forgot password: use the Forgot Password link on the login page to reset via email.

Security & best practices

• Use a unique password and change it periodically.
• Never share your OTP or password.
• Sign out from public or shared devices.
• Keep the email you registered with active — it’s used for important notifications.

FAQs

Is eCitizen registration free?

Creating your account is free. Note that specific services (passports, business registration, etc.) carry their own fees paid during the application process.

Can I register without a Kenyan phone number?

Yes — diaspora users can register using email and may use non-Kenyan phones, though some mobile-payment features (like M-Pesa) will require a Kenyan number. Check diaspora guidance if you’re abroad.

What ID can I use?

Kenyans use their National ID; foreigners use a passport. Minors and other categories have special options during registration.

Who to contact if I have problems?

eCitizen has contact/support channels on the portal — use the official contacts page or the service help pages for the ministry you’re using.

Need a custom version of this guide for the Diaspora (step for non-Kenyan phone numbers) or a printable checklist? Reply and I’ll make one for you.