How to Legally Change your Name in Kenya

Did you know more than 40,000 people changed their last names in 2021? Whether it's to honor a cultural heritage, embrace a new chapter in life, or simply to align with personal identity, the process of legally changing your name can be a transformative journey. So, if you've ever contemplated adopting a new moniker and thought of how to legally change your name in Kenya, look no further! 

In this blog post, we will provide you with a step-by-step process of how to legally change your name in Kenya, ensuring that your transition to a new identity is not just seamless but legally binding. Get ready to unlock the secrets of reinvention as we delve into the realm of name transformation in the vibrant land of Kenya.

How do I Legally Change my Name in Kenya?

There are several ways on how to legally change your name in Kenya. First you may apply in person. Lets go over the process of how to legally change your name in Kenya by applying in person:

Step 1: To begin the process of changing your name, you will need to visit the Registrar Generals Department. A fee of KSh 500 will be paid for the deed pool.

Step 2: Request a copy of the Deed Poll document. The Deed Poll should be drafted according to the prescribed format specified in Form 1 of the Regulations to the Act.

Step 3: You need to make an application for registration, which is designated as Form A in the Registration of Documents (Forms) Regulations.

Step 4: When submitting the Deed Poll and application, you must include a copy of your birth certificate as supporting documentation.

Step 5: Provide a statutory declaration, as stated in Form 6 of the Act. This declaration should be sworn by a person residing in Kenya who is personally acquainted with you under the name you wish to change to.

Step 6: Presented all necessary documents to the Registrar of Documents for registration. Once the registration process is complete, the registrar will publish the deed poll in the Kenya Gazette. At this point, the name change becomes effective.

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What are the Requirements needed to Legally Change your Name in Kenya?

When looking for the process of how to legally change your name in Kenya, you should also be prepared to submit some necessary documents for the process. Here are some of the documents that might be required of you in the process of legally changing your name in Kenya

• A letter from the area chief
• Fingerprints printout
• Deed poll and affidavit, along with the required supporting documents
• An affidavit from a witness who has known you for a minimum of 10 years
• Two passport-sized photos
• Birth certificate or baptism certificate
• Identity cards of both parents
• Marriage certificate
• School leaving certificate
• Sworn affidavits
• Copies of both parents' ID cards
• Birth certificate
• Divorce certificate (if applicable)
• Parental consent for marriage (if applicable)

How do Change my Name on the Identity Card?

To change your name in the Identity Card (ID) in accordance with the Registration of Persons Act Kenya, follow these steps:

Step 1: Complete the Deed Poll form (form 1) for the change of name and submit it to the Registration Officer. This form includes the necessary details regarding the name change. You can obtain the form from the registrar general's office or download it online.

Step 2: Gather the relevant supporting documents based on the type of name change. These may include documents such as:

• Marriage Certificate
• Deed Poll
• School Leaving Certificates
• Sworn affidavits
• Confirmation letters from an administrative office
• Birth Certificate
• Copy of your parents' ID card.

Step 3: Surrender your current identity card and pay the prescribed fee of Ksh 1000

Step 4: The registration officer will sign a certificate, following the format specified in the Fourth schedule, which will be issued to you.

Step 5: Your photograph will be taken for the purpose of issuing a new identity card.

Step 6: The registration officer will forward the application form, photograph, and surrendered identity card to the Principal Registrar. The changes will be recorded in the register of persons, and the surrendered ID card will be cancelled. In case, you need an ID card replacement in Kenya, follow this requirement for replacing a lost or damaged ID Card in Kenya.

Step 7: After sixty days from the date of receiving the certificate from the registration officer, you need to visit the specified registration office mentioned in the certificate. Surrender the certificate and receive a new identity card in exchange.

For personalized assistance, you can schedule a consultation with an expert by visiting the Registrar General Department office located on Harambee Avenue in Nairobi. You can also contact them at 0711 9445555 or send an email to communications@ag.go.ke.

Read Also: How to Verify ID Number in Kenya

Conclusion:

Changing your name is a profound personal choice that allows you to fully express your identity and embrace your true self. Now armed with the knowledge of "How to Legally Change Your Name in Kenya," it's time to take action. Don't let bureaucratic processes or fear of the unknown hold you back. Take the first step towards your new identity today by following the step-by-step guide outlined in this blog post.

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