Authentication of documents in Kenya

PROCEDURE AND SCHEDULE FOR DOCUMENT AUTHENTICATION

The authentication of documents in Kenya is carried out by the Legal and Host Country Affairs Directorate within the Ministry of Foreign Affairs (MFA). Prior to authentication, relevant issuing authorities certify the documents based on their nature.

The certification process by issuing authorities is outlined as follows:

• Academic Certificates: Ministry of Education

• Marriage Certificates: Registrar of Marriages

• Islamic Marriage and Divorce Certificates: Chief Kadhi or Deputy Chief Kadhi

• Adoption Certificate: High Court

• Certificate of Birth/Death: Registrar of Births/Deaths

• Court Order: Seal of the issuing court

• Certified copy of an entry of marriage: Registrar of Marriages

• Certificate of no impediment to Marriage: Registrar of Marriages

• Driving Licence: National Transport & Safety Authority (NTSA)

• Medical Certificate Report: Kenya Medical & Dentists Practitioners Council (KMPDC)

• Police Clearance Certificate: Director of Criminal Investigations (DCI)

• Power of Attorney: Registrar of the High Court

• Notary Public: Registrar of the High Court

• Trade Documents (Original/Copy): Kenya National Chamber of Commerce & Industry or the Joint Arab-Kenya Chamber of Commerce & Industry

The Legal Directorate is particularly attentive to emergency/urgent cases, especially when the applicant(s) need to travel abroad for medical attention. In such instances, priority processing of documents is undertaken.

For the authentication of documents, follow the steps outlined below:

1. Submit your request and required documents at Counter 39, Huduma Centre at City Square – Nairobi.

   • Receive a issuance receipt.

   • Obtain a collection slip.

2. The documents are forwarded to the Legal and Host Country Affairs Directorate at MFA.

3. Processing time is completed within two (2) working days.

4. Collect your authenticated documents after two (2) working days.

Note: Requisite documents are accepted at Huduma Centre, City Square, only on Mondays, Wednesdays, and Fridays at 0900hrs.