CHANGE OF NAME PROCESS IN KENYA

A deed poll is a legal document binding only to a single person or several persons acting jointly to express an active intention, basically, change of name. This means such persons are either dropping and/or adding name(s).

Primarily, it is the alteration involving changing either the forename or surname, removing names, or reordering existing names. In Kenya, this process is governed by the Registration of Documents Act, Cap 285 (RDA) and its regulations.

What are the documents required for a deed poll process?

1. Fingerprint printout;

2. Letter from the area chief;

3. Original Birth Certificate or a Certified Copy of the same;

4. Address of the Applicant & Witness;

5. National ID card (if applicable) or passport of the Applicant & Witness;

6. Passport-Sized Photographs;

7. Marriage Certificate (if applicable, for married women changing their surname);

8. Divorce Certificate (if applicable, for women reverting to maiden name); and

9. Death certificate of spouse (if applicable, for widows reverting to maiden name).

The Process in Kenya

1. Obtaining the necessary documents

Generally, this process starts by collating the above-mentioned documents. The fingerprint printout may be obtained from the nearest Huduma Center or directly from the National Registration Bureau.

2. Preparation of the deed poll and the accompanying documents

This instrument and its accompanying documents are specifically prepared by lawyers. The accompanying documents include your statutory declaration, a statutory declaration from your witness and necessary consents where applicable.

3. Certification of accompanying documents and Submission of the fingerprint printout to the National Registration Bureau.

After the accompanied documents are certified, the fingerprint printout is submitted to the National Registration Bureau for verification/assessment.

4. Payment of Stamp Duty and Registration fee

After verification of the fingerprints, the next step is normally assessment of stamp duty, payment of the same. Thereafter, an applicant pays registration fee and fills an application form for registration of the deed.

5. Gazettement

This takes place after registration and after the deed poll has been forwarded to the Government Printers for publication. It is after gazettement, name change is legally recognized and one can apply for a new ID as well as update other records bearing his/her former name.

Conclusion

While the process may seem straight forward, it is advisable to engage a professional so as to avoid extra costs and unnecessary delays. Ranking as the best change of name lawyers in Kenya, Musa & Musa Advocates ensures a seamless and expedited process. Do not hesitate to reach out to us.