Kenya has waived charges for replacing lost or damaged national ID cards after President William Ruto ordered the removal of the fees to ease access to essential identification.
The directive was formally communicated through a special gazette notice dated October 31, 2025, signed by Interior Cabinet Secretary Kipchumba Murkomen.
The notice states that the waiver takes effect immediately and applies to all citizens seeking a replacement of their national ID cards.
"This waiver follows our other reforms, which include free issuance to first-time ID applicants, abolition of the extra-vetting requirement for border counties, and the scrapping of authentication fees for birth certificates when applying for IDs and passports. I urge the public to take advantage of this waiver period to go for IDs," Murkomen said in a statement on X.
The new rules also delete the earlier provision requiring applicants to pay a Sh1,000 fee for ID replacement.
According to the announcement, the policy shift is meant to support citizens in obtaining the identification document without financial inconvenience, especially those who previously struggled with the replacement fee.
The government notes that many Kenyans rely on the ID to access government services, register for public programs, and complete important personal and economic transactions, making it a cornerstone document in daily life.
The waiver follows President Ruto’s earlier directive instructing the Interior Ministry to remove the cost barrier and ensure that all eligible Kenyans can secure the document.
Authorities say the move is part of wider efforts to strengthen citizen registration and streamline service access across the country.
In the gazette notice, the ministry emphasises that the national ID remains a primary requirement for public services and official verification processes.
By lifting the replacement charge, the government aims to encourage those with lost, stolen, or worn-out cards to apply for new ones without hesitation.
Officials argue that easing the replacement process will help maintain an accurate and up-to-date national identification record, while also reducing the risk of exclusion for individuals who lack valid identification.
They add that the decision reflects the administration’s commitment to improving efficiency and fairness in public service delivery.
The announcement signals a major shift for citizens who depend on the national ID to access opportunities in both public and private sectors.
It also demonstrates the government’s focus on making essential documentation more accessible and removing financial barriers that may have prevented many from replacing their cards in the past.
The Interior Ministry says further guidance will be issued through relevant offices to ensure smooth implementation of the waiver across the country.
