Document Legalization & Change of Name by Deed Poll in Kenya
Kenyan documents intended for use in another country often need more than notarisation. Depending on the destination, they may need to be authenticated by the Ministry of Foreign and Diaspora Affairs and then legalised by that country's embassy or consulate, or certified under the apostille process where it applies. We prepare and notarise the documents and guide you through each onward step.
Regulated Advocates | Commissioners for Oaths & Notaries Public
If you want to change your name, a deed poll is the formal legal instrument for doing so. We draft the deed poll, oversee its execution, have it registered with the Registrar of Documents and published in the Kenya Gazette, and advise on updating your national ID, passport, certificates and other records afterwards.
Services Offered
Document Authentication Guidance
Advice on the authentication and legalisation steps required by the receiving country.
Notarisation for Legalisation
Notarisation of documents as the first step in the legalisation chain.
Change of Name by Deed Poll
Drafting and execution of the deed poll for adults and, with parental consent, minors.
Registration & Gazettement
Registration of the deed poll and publication of the change of name in the Kenya Gazette.
Updating Records
Guidance on using the registered deed poll to update identity, academic and financial records.
Who This Service Is For
- Individuals sending academic, civil-status or legal documents abroad
- Companies needing Kenyan corporate documents recognised in another country
- Anyone changing or correcting their name after marriage, divorce or personal choice
- Parents changing the name of a minor child
How It Works
- 1Initial consultationWe confirm what the receiving institution requires, or the name change you want to record.
- 2Prepare and executeWe prepare the documents or deed poll and arrange for execution, notarisation or commissioning.
- 3Registration or authenticationDeed polls are registered and gazetted; documents for use abroad proceed to authentication and legalisation.
- 4CompletionYou receive the registered deed poll and gazette notice, or the authenticated document, with guidance on next steps.
What to Bring
- Original national ID card or passport
- For legalisation: the original documents to be authenticated and details of the destination country
- For a deed poll: documents showing your current name (such as a birth certificate) and the new name you wish to adopt
- For a minor: the child's birth certificate and the parents' or guardian's identification
Requirements can vary with the purpose of the document — we confirm the checklist when you contact us.
Legalization & Deed Polls in Karen, Nairobi & Kakamega
Visit either office during business hours (Monday–Friday: 9 am – 5 pm | Weekends & Public Holidays: Closed). Please call ahead to confirm availability.
Karen, Nairobi Office
Tana House, 3rd Floor, Room 309Karen Shopping Centre, Along Lang'ata RoadKaren, NairobiKakamega Office
Walias Shopping Centre, 2nd Floor, Room 210Kakamega
Frequently Asked Questions
A change of name is usually made by deed poll. The deed poll is executed, registered with the Registrar of Documents and published in the Kenya Gazette. The registered deed poll and gazette notice can then be used to update your identity documents and other records.
Yes, a change of name for a minor can be made by deed poll with the consent and participation of the parents or guardian. We advise on the requirements for your situation.
No. Requirements differ between countries and institutions — some accept notarised documents directly, while others require authentication and embassy legalisation or an apostille. Confirm with the receiving institution, and we will advise on the steps.
Drafting and execution can usually be completed quickly once we have your documents; registration and publication in the Kenya Gazette then follow the timelines of those offices. We give you an estimate when you instruct us.