Govt extends ID fees waiver by 6 months to boost registration
By Emmanuel Rono, May 2, 2026The government has extended the waiver period for fees charged on the replacement of identity cards and changes of personal particulars for an additional six months.
In a notice issued on Friday, May 1, 2026, Interior Cabinet Secretary Kipchumba Murkomen announced the decision, saying it is aimed at easing access to essential identification documents for all eligible citizens.
“We have today issued a Special Gazette Notice extending the waiver period for fees charged on the replacement of IDs and change of particulars for a further six months,” Murkomen stated.
Ease to critical services
According to Murkomen, the move is part of a broader government effort to ensure more Kenyans can access vital documentation needed to benefit from public services and economic opportunities.
He noted that access to national IDs is critical for participation in everyday life, including accessing government services, securing employment, and engaging in financial transactions.
Murkomen further disclosed that the latest directive aligns with ongoing reforms within President William Ruto’s administration to ease access to critical documents.
“We are committed to ensuring that all citizens can acquire vital identification documents to access government services and other opportunities. This move complements other measures spearheaded by H.E. President Williams Ruto, including the scrapping of charges for first-time ID applicants and the authentication fee for birth certificates, as well as the removal of extra vetting for border communities,” Murkomen stated.
First waiver on ID
Murkomen, in a statement posted on his official X on Friday, October 31, 2025, said the waiver is part of the government’s broader effort to ensure all citizens can access essential documents without financial barriers.
“The Government has today issued a special gazette notice waiving the fees charged for the replacement of IDs and changing of particulars for a period of six months,” he said.
He added that the decision aligns with President William Ruto’s directive aimed at promoting inclusivity and ensuring that every Kenyan has access to the national ID, a key document required for accessing government services and economic opportunities.