How to Change Your Legal Name in Kenya

How to Change Your Legal Name in Kenya

Deed Poll Requirements and Process

Changing your legal name in Kenya requires specific documents and procedures, primarily through a Deed Poll. This guide provides a comprehensive step-by-step process for legally changing your name in Kenya, ensuring you meet all requirements and understand each stage involved.

What is a Deed Poll?

A Deed Poll is an official document that declares a name change in Kenya. Once registered, this document enables you to legally adopt and use your new name on all official records and documents. Below is an outline of the requirements and steps involved in the Deed Poll process for a name change in Kenya.

Requirements for Changing Your Name by Deed Poll in Kenya

To change your name legally in Kenya, you’ll need the following:

1. Duly Executed Deed Poll (Form 1 of the Schedule)
   This form, completed in line with official guidelines, declares the applicant’s intention to change their name.
2. Affidavit or Statutory Declaration (Form 5 of the Schedule)
   This is a sworn declaration from a Kenyan resident who knows the applicant personally, affirming the identity and intent behind the name change.
3. Confirmation Letter from Local Administrative Office/Area Chief
   A letter from an area chief or administrative office further verifies the applicant’s identity and residency.
4. Birth Certificate
   The applicant’s birth certificate is required for proof of birth and identity.
5. Supporting Documents
   Additional documents are optional but may help reinforce the application. These include:
   • Marriage Certificate
   • Birth Certificate Copies
   • Property Title Documents
   • Share Certificates
   • Vehicle Log Book
   • Professional Certificates
   • School Leaving Certificates
   • KCPE/KCSE Certificates
   • Diploma or Degree Certificates
   • Sworn Affidavits

Procedure for Changing Your Name in Kenya

After gathering all required documents, follow these steps to complete the name change process:

1. Submit Documents to the Registrar of Documents

Present all required documents to the Registrar of Documents for Deed Poll registration. Pay a registration fee of Kshs. 500.

2. Gazettement of the Deed Poll

Once registered, the Deed Poll is advertised in the Kenya Gazette. This gazettement is necessary to finalize the name change. The new name becomes legally recognized upon publication.

3. Updating Your Identity Card (ID) After a Name Change

To ensure your ID reflects your new legal name, follow these additional steps:

• Present the Registered Deed Poll: Submit the registered Deed Poll with all particulars of the name change to the Registration Officer.
• Surrender Your Current ID and Pay the Required Fee: Submit your existing ID and pay Kshs. 1,000 for ID processing.
• Receive an Interim Certificate: The Registration Officer issues a certificate in the prescribed format, serving as interim proof of your new name until the new ID is issued.
• Photo Capture for the New ID: A photo of the applicant is taken to prepare for the issuance of the new identity card.
• Forward Documents to the Principal Registrar: The Registration Officer sends all documents to the Principal Registrar, who updates the national register and cancels the surrendered ID.
• Collect the New ID After 60 Days: After 60 days, return to the registration office with the interim certificate to exchange it for your new ID card with your updated legal name.

Key Points to Note About the Deed Poll Process

Permanent Name Change: A Deed Poll leads to a permanent name change, so be sure to consider this before applying.

Timing of Kenya Gazette Publication: The gazettement may take some time, which could affect other documents you wish to update, such as passports or driver’s licenses.

By following these steps and ensuring all required documents are correctly prepared, you can successfully change your legal name in Kenya. A Deed Poll allows for an official transition, ensuring your new name is recognized across all legal and official documents in Kenya.

Frequently Asked Questions

1. How long does it take to change a legal name in Kenya?
The process varies but generally takes 120 days post-registration, including the gazettement period. This period could take longer as it is dependent on the Government processes and procedures.

2. Can anyone witness the statutory declaration?
No, the witness must be a person resident in Kenya who personally knows the applicant.

3. How much does it cost to change a name in Kenya?
The Deed Poll registration fee is Kshs. 500, and updating your ID card costs an additional Kshs. 1,000.

Changing your name by Deed Poll in Kenya is straightforward if all requirements are met and steps followed. This guide ensures you can complete the process confidently, with each phase clarified for a smooth name change experience.

Do you wish to change your name in Kenya? Please contact us at info@swkadvocates.com