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Have you ever thought about how to change your name in Kenya? Maybe you want a fresh start, a name that reflects your identity, or one that aligns with a new chapter in your life.
Whatever your reason, knowing how to change your name in Kenya can feel overwhelming at first, but it’s a straightforward process if you follow the proper steps.
In this guide, I’ll walk you through everything about how to change your name in Kenya, from requirements to costs, and even exceptional cases like changing a name after marriage or for a minor.
What is a Name Change?
A name change is when you legally adopt a new name, replacing your current one. In Kenya, this is done through a legal document called a deed poll, which is registered with the Registrar of Documents.
Once approved, your new name is published in the Kenyan Gazette, making it official for all legal purposes.
Whether you want to change your name after marriage, for personal reasons, or to correct a mistake, understanding how to change your name in Kenya is the first step to success.
Common Reasons for Changing Your Name
People decide to change their names for many reasons:
- Some want to change their name in Kenya after marriage to take their spouse’s surname.
- Others might change their name after a divorce to reclaim their maiden name.
- Some choose a new name for cultural, religious, or personal identity reasons.
- Parents may also want to change a child’s name due to adoption.
- To correct an error on a birth certificate.
Whatever your reason, the legal process of changing a name in Kenya is designed to ensure all government institutions recognize your new name.
Legal Requirements to Change Your Name in Kenya
Before starting the name change process in Kenya, you must meet specific requirements. Here’s what you need to know about the requirements to change your name in Kenya:
- You must be a Kenyan citizen or a resident with legal status to change your name in Kenya.
- You must be at least 16 years old to initiate the process independently. For minors under 16, a parent or guardian must apply on their behalf.
- You need valid identification documents, like a birth certificate or national ID, to prove your identity.
- Your reason for changing your name must be lawful. For example, you can’t change your name to commit fraud or avoid legal obligations.
With these basics in mind, let’s explore the step-by-step guide to legally changing your name in Kenya.
Step-by-Step Guide to the Process of Changing Your Name in Kenya
There are several steps you must take to change your name in Kenya. By the end, you’ll know precisely how to change your name in Kenya and what to expect at each stage.
Step 1: Gather Required Documents
To start the process of changing your name in Kenya, you’ll need to collect the following documents:
- Certified copy of your birth certificate: This proves your original name and identity.
- A certified copy of your national ID card confirms your current legal identity.
- A certified copy of your KRA certificate (if applicable): This is needed if you are registered with the Kenya Revenue Authority.
- Three current passport-size photos must be recent and meet standard photo requirements.
- Letter from your area chief: This letter confirms your identity and residence. Visit your local chief’s office to get this.
Having these documents ready ensures a smooth start to the process to change your name in Kenya.
Step 2: Obtain Fingerprint Printout
Next, you’ll need to visit the Registrar of Persons office in Kenya to have your fingerprints taken. This is a crucial step in the deed poll process in Kenya because it verifies your identity.
The fingerprint printout is submitted with your application to ensure no mix-up or fraud. You can do this at any major Registrar of Persons office in Nairobi or Mombasa.
Step 3: Prepare Supporting Affidavits
You’ll need two affidavits from people who have known you for at least 10 years and are not family members. These affidavits to change your name in Kenya confirm that you are who you say you are and support your intention to change your name in Kenya.
These individuals must swear their affidavits before a commissioner of oaths or a lawyer. This step adds an extra layer of credibility to your application.
Step 4: Draft and Complete the Deed Poll
Now it’s time to prepare the deed poll, the legal document officially declaring your intent to change your name in Kenya.
You can download a deed poll form in Kenya from the Registrar of Documents website or get one from a lawyer. The deed poll (Form 1) must include:
- Your current name.
- Your new name.
- The reason for the change.
- A declaration that you’ll use the new name for all purposes.
While you can draft the deed poll yourself, working with a name change lawyer in Kenya is wise to ensure it’s correctly worded and legally binding. A lawyer can also guide you through the deed poll process in Kenya to avoid mistakes.
Step 5: Submit Application for Registration
Once your deed poll and supporting documents are ready, submit them to the Registrar of Documents at the Ministry of Lands and the Registrar of Documents in Nairobi or the Coastal Registry in Mombasa.
You’ll also need to include a statutory declaration and the application forms provided by the Registrar. This step officially starts the legal process of changing a name in Kenya.
Step 6: Gazette the Name Change
After your application is approved, the Registrar publishes a notice in the Kenyan Gazette. This is called the Gazette name change, Kenya, and it’s a public announcement of your name change.
The gazettement process typically takes 30–60 days, allowing time for any objections. Once published, your new name will be legally recognized, and you’re almost done changing your name in Kenya.
Step 7: Apply for New Identity Documents
With the Gazette notice, it’s time to update your identity documents. Visit the Department of Civil Registration or Registrar of Persons, Kenya, to surrender your old national ID and apply for a new one with your new name.
The fee for a new ID is currently Ksh 1,000. If you have a passport, you must apply for a new one through the Immigration name change Kenya services. This ensures all your official documents reflect your new name.
Step 8: Update Other Documents
Finally, update other records like bank accounts, insurance policies, and other documents tied to your old name.
This step is crucial to avoid confusion in the future. By now, you’ve completed changing your name in Kenya, and your new name is ready to use.
Cost of Changing Your Name in Kenya
How much does it cost to change your name in Kenya? The total cost depends on several factors, but here’s a breakdown:
- Deed poll preparation: If you hire a name change lawyer in Kenya, expect to pay Ksh 5,000–10,000 for drafting and filing.
- Fingerprint printout costs around Ksh 500–1,000 at the Registrar of Persons.
- Gazette notice fee: Publishing in the Kenyan Gazette costs about Ksh 1,500.
- New ID card: The fee is Ksh 1,000.
- Miscellaneous costs: Passport photos, affidavits, and transport may add another Ksh 1,000–2,000.
The cost of a name change in Kenya typically depends on these factors, and whether you use a lawyer and other variables.
Remember this is an estimate of the cost, you also have to include the legal fees, which varies depending on the lawyer.
Name Change for Minors in Kenya
Changing a name for minors in Kenya follows a similar process, but there are extra steps. A parent or legal guardian must apply on behalf of the child, and you’ll need:
- The child’s birth certificate.
- Consent from both parents (if applicable) or a court order if one parent is unavailable.
- A letter explaining why the name change is in the child’s best interest.
The process still involves a deed poll and gazette, but the Registrar may scrutinize the application more closely to protect the child’s rights. If you’re wondering, Can I change my child’s name in Kenya? The answer is yes, as long as you meet these requirements.
Name Change After Marriage or Divorce
Many people in Kenya want to change their names after marriage or divorce. After marriage, you can take your spouse’s surname without a deed poll by presenting your marriage certificate when updating your ID or passport.
However, you must follow Kenya’s complete deed poll process if you want a new name.
To change your name after divorce in Kenya, you can revert to your maiden name or choose a new name.
You’ll need your divorce decree and follow the same steps outlined above. The process is straightforward, and gazettement is still required.
FAQs
How much does it cost to change your name in Kenya?
It typically costs Ksh 9,000–10,000, without the legal fee. The legal fee is the fee your lawyer will charge you. So the cost is an estimate, without the legal fee.
How long does the name change process take in Kenya?
The process takes about 2–3 months, mainly due to the 30–60-day gazettement period.
What documents do I need for a deed poll?
You need a birth certificate, national ID, passport photos, a letter from your chief, and affidavits.
Can I change my name after marriage without a deed poll?
You can use your marriage certificate to update your surname on official documents.
Do you need a lawyer to change your name in Kenya?
While not mandatory, a name change lawyer in Kenya can help avoid errors and speed up the process.
Is a gazette notice necessary to change your name in Kenya?
A gazettement is required for all legal name changes to be recognized.
Can I change my child’s name in Kenya?
Parents or guardians can apply for a minor’s name change with the proper documents.
How do I download a deed poll form in Kenya?
Visit the Registrar of Documents website or consult a lawyer for a template.
Where do I submit my deed poll in Kenya?
Please submit it to the Registrar of Documents in Nairobi or the Coastal Registry in Mombasa.
Can a foreigner change their name while living in Kenya?
Yes, but you must have legal residency status and follow the same deed poll process.
Final Words
Changing your name in Kenya is a life-changing decision; now you know how to do it! From gathering documents to publishing in the Kenyan Gazette, the name change process in Kenya is transparent and manageable if you follow the steps.
Whether you need to change your name for personal, cultural, or family reasons, the process ensures your new name is legally recognized across Kenya.
Need help drafting a deed poll or navigating the process? Contact Chepchieng & Company Advocates for expert assistance to help you change your name in Kenya smoothly and stress-free.
