A Deed Poll is the lawful method of changing a name in Kenya. Whether the change is due to correction of errors, adoption of a preferred name, or alignment of Kenyan records with foreign documents, the deed poll process is document-driven and must be handled carefully.
Documents Required for the Deed Poll Process in Kenya
The following documents are required for a change of name through a Deed Poll:
- Copies of identification documents (National ID, Passport, and Birth Certificate)
- Letter from the Area Chief
- Original fingerprint printout
- Certification of fingerprint printout by the National Registration Bureau
- Affidavit sworn by a long-time acquaintance
Identification Documents
Identification documents establish your current legal identity. Copies of your National ID, Passport, and Birth Certificate are used to confirm who you are and to show why a change of name is necessary.
In many Deed Poll applications, these documents contain inconsistencies in spelling, order of names, or missing names. These discrepancies must be addressed carefully to ensure the Deed Poll resolves identity issues rather than creating new ones.
Letter from the Area Chief
The letter from the area chief confirms your identity at the community level. It is a safeguard against fraudulent or impersonated name changes.
The letter should clearly indicate your current name, intended new name, date and place of birth, and the names of your parents. For Mombasa clients, the letter is typically obtained from the chief of the area of residence or origin. Accuracy is essential, as errors may delay the process.
Original Fingerprint Printout
Fingerprinting is a mandatory part of the Deed Poll process. The fingerprint printout links your identity to official biometric records held by the government.
Fingerprints can be taken at any Huduma Centre in Kenya or at a Kenyan Embassy or High Commission for applicants living abroad. The printout must be original and in the prescribed format.
Certification by the National Registration Bureau
After fingerprints are taken, the printout must be certified by the National Registration Bureau. Certification confirms that the fingerprints match official government records.
Although fingerprints can be taken in Mombasa, certification is handled centrally in Nairobi. This step often requires follow-up, and delays commonly occur where documentation is incomplete or improperly prepared.
Affidavit from a Long-Time Acquaintance
An affidavit must be sworn by an adult who has known you personally for at least ten years. This affidavit supports your application by confirming your identity and the genuineness of the name change.
The affidavit is prepared by an advocate and sworn before a Commissioner for Oaths. It provides independent verification and is an important safeguard in the Deed Poll process.
How the Deed Poll Process Works After Documentation
Once all documents are in order, the Deed Poll instrument is drafted, executed, and registered. Upon registration, the Deed Poll becomes legally effective and can be used to update records with government agencies, banks, employers, and immigration authorities.
For Coast-based clients, parts of the process may involve coordination with offices in Nairobi. Proper preparation significantly reduces delays and rejection.
Legal Fees
We charge a standard fee of Kshs. 100,000 for handling the process from start to finish.
Conclusion
The Deed Poll process in Kenya is straightforward but documentation-intensive. For individuals seeking to change their names in Mombasa and the Coastal Region, ensuring that all required documents are accurate and consistent is critical.
A properly executed Deed Poll provides the legal foundation for updating all official records and avoiding future administrative or legal complications. Professional legal assistance ensures the process is handled efficiently and with full legal certainty. Contact today our team of experienced family lawyers in Mombasa for assistance.
