Affidavit of Lost Documents in Kenya

Affidavit of Lost Documents in Kenya

In Kenya, an affidavit of lost documents is a legal declaration sworn before a Notary Public in Kenya or Commissioner for Oaths. This affidavit is necessary when an individual or business loses a document and needs to replace it. Whether due to theft, misplacement, or other reasons, an affidavit is a key part of the process to secure a replacement document.

Common Scenarios for Document Loss in Kenya

Documents can be lost in various situations in Kenya. These include:

• Theft
• Relocation
• Travel
• Accidental misplacement

Lost documents can range from personal identification papers to official business documents. To obtain replacements, you will likely need to swear an affidavit to confirm the loss and your efforts to recover the documents. This legal document certifies that the individual or entity has lost their original documents and requests a replacement.

Personal Documents Requiring an Affidavit of Lost Documents

If you lose any of the following personal documents, you may need to swear an affidavit to initiate the replacement process:

1. Passport or Travel Documents: These are crucial for international travel and identity verification.
2. National Identity Card (ID): The most important identification document for Kenyan citizens.
3. Birth Certificates: Used for legal identification and documentation.
4. KCPE/KCSE Certificates: Proof of primary and secondary education in Kenya.
5. Professional Certificates: Such as CPA certificates or other professional qualifications.
6. University Degrees: Essential for job applications and professional development.
7. Vehicle Logbook: Necessary for proving ownership of a motor vehicle.

Business Documents Requiring an Affidavit of Lost Documents

Businesses often need to replace essential records when they are lost. Some of the business documents that may require an affidavit of loss include:

1. Certificate of Incorporation: This proves the legal registration of a company in Kenya.
2. Share Certificates: Evidence of share ownership in a company.
3. Invoices: Critical for financial documentation and audit trails.
4. Insurance Documents: Needed for claims processing.

Steps to Take When You Lose a Document in Kenya

Losing important documents can be stressful, but there are steps you can take to protect yourself and begin the replacement process.

1. Report the Loss to the Police: The first step after realizing you’ve lost a document is to visit a nearby police station. Reporting the loss is important, especially for identification documents like a National ID or passport, which could be used for fraudulent activities. The police will issue you a Police Occurrence Book (OB) Number, a record of your report.
2. Obtain a Police Abstract: The police abstract serves as official documentation that you have reported the loss. This is often required when replacing government-issued documents such as passports, National ID cards, and educational certificates.
3. Visit a Notary Public: Once you have the police abstract, visit a Notary Public or Commissioner for Oaths to swear the affidavit. The affidavit of lost documents in Kenya will serve as proof of the loss and allow you to apply for a replacement or certified copy.

Requirements for Swearing an Affidavit of Lost Documents

To swear an affidavit of lost documents, you need to provide:

• A valid form of identification (National ID or passport).
• Your residential or postal address.
• A account of how and when the document was lost, along with confirmation that attempts to locate it were unsuccessful.
• The OB Number from your police report (if applicable).
• Your signature on the affidavit document.

How Long Does It Take to Get an Affidavit of Lost Documents in Kenya?

The process of swearing an affidavit of lost documents in Kenya is relatively quick. It typically takes 15-20 minutes, provided you have all the necessary information and documents on hand. The Notary Public will help you prepare and swear the affidavit, ensuring it meets the required legal standards.

What Happens After Swearing the Affidavit in Kenya?

Once you have sworn the affidavit, you can proceed to apply for a replacement document or a certified copy. Depending on the type of document, you will submit the affidavit alongside other required paperwork to the relevant authority, such as the National Registration Bureau (for National IDs) or Registrar of Companies (for business-related documents).

Contact Us for Assistance with Affidavits of Lost Documents  in Kenya

If you need help processing an affidavit of lost documents in Kenya, we offer fast, professional services to assist you in replacing your lost papers. Our team can guide you through the entire process, ensuring that your affidavit is legally sound and ready for submission.

Get in Touch Today:

• WhatsApp/Call: +254726328555
• Email: info@swkadvocates.com