Requirements for document attestation in Kenya

1. Original document — Present the original and at least one clear copy for verification.
2. Notarized copy — Provide a notary-stamped/endorsement copy (notary verifies signature and identity).
3. Pre-verification where required — Some documents must be verified by the issuing authority (e.g., universities, civil registry).
4. Ministry of Foreign Affairs authenticated document — Present the original document authenticated by the MFA .

The Document Attestation / Legalization Process in Kenya

The typical steps we manage for you:

1. Preparation: Check documents, IDs and copies — confirm if pre-verification is required.
2. Notarization: Notary Public verifies signature and affixes seal.
3. Pre-verification: Issuing institutions or registries (e.g., university, Registrar of Births) verify authenticity when necessary.
4. MFA Authentication: Ministry of Foreign Affairs (MFA) authenticates the notary’s signature — often via Huduma/MFA counters.
5. Embassy Legalization: Destination country’s embassy/consulate legalizes the MFA-authenticated document where required.
6. Translation: Certified translation if the receiving country requires documents in another language.

Note: Some countries accept apostilles. Kenya is not a Hague Apostille member; most foreign uses require embassy legalization. Check your destination country's policy.

How long does attestation take?

• Notarization: 1–2 business days
• MFA authentication: 3–5 working days (varies with workload)
• Embassy legalization: 2–7 working days (varies by embassy)
• End-to-end typical: 3–14 working days (dependent on document type & embassy)

Cost of document attestation in Kenya

The total cost of document attestation in Kenya depends on the type of document, any required verification by the issuing authority, and the specific authentication steps such as Notary Public, High Court verification, MFA authentication, and embassy legalization. Translation and courier charges may also apply.

Examples of typical service packages:

• Self-Service: KES 2,500 – guidance, checklist, and templates
• Standard: KES 9,500 – notary and Ministry of Foreign Affairs assistance (per document)
• Premium: KES 25,000+ – full process including embassy legalization and courier handling

Government, MFA, and embassy fees change periodically. Request a customized quote for accurate current pricing.

Quick checklist — what to bring

• Original document(s) and at least one clear copy
• Valid ID (passport or national ID)
• Proof of payment (if paying fees in person)
• Authorization letter if a representative submits documents
• Any institution verification receipts (e.g., university verification)

Embassy-by-embassy quick notes (high-volume destinations)

United Kingdom

UK embassy in Nairobi usually requires MFA authentication plus a notarized copy. Certain documents (e.g., educational certificates) may need institution verification. Processing can range 3–10 working days depending on appointment availability.

United States

US consular services often require MFA authentication and additional local consular checks for some documents. Expect variable processing times; some consulates require prior appointment or courier arrangements.

UAE / Gulf states

Many Gulf embassies require notary → MFA authentication → embassy legalization. Some accept scanned copies for initial review but will often require originals for final legalization.

Germany / EU

German embassy requirements can be specific (e.g., certified translations by sworn translators). Always confirm the latest forms with the embassy website — we check and include embassy‑specific forms when we handle your file.

South Africa

Similar MFA-authentication + consulate legalization flow. Turnaround depends on consulate workload.

If you tell us the destination country and document type, we’ll confirm current embassy rules and include any special forms.

Apostille in Kenya – Common Misconception Explained

Kenya is not a signatory to the Hague Apostille Convention. This means apostilles are not issued locally. However, most people searching for “apostille services in Kenya” are simply looking for a way to make their documents valid in a country that uses apostilles.

Our role is to help you complete the Kenyan equivalent process

Frequently Asked Questions

Is Kenya part of the Hague Apostille Convention?

No. Kenya is not a Hague Apostille member. Documents for international use usually require consular legalization through the relevant embassy in Kenya.

How long does the whole process take?

Expect 3–14 working days typically. Exact time depends on document type, whether pre-verification is necessary, MFA processing times and the embassy’s schedule.

Do I need the original document?

Yes. Original documents are generally required for notarization and later authentication steps. Always bring a clear copy as well.

Can someone submit on my behalf?

Yes. A representative can submit if you provide an authorization letter and the representative's ID. Some steps may require the principal’s presence (varies by case).

Are translations required?

Sometimes. If the destination country’s official language differs, certified translations may be necessary prior to authentication or legalization.

How do I check exact embassy requirements?

Embassy requirements differ. Provide the destination country and document type when requesting a quote and we’ll confirm the embassy rules and any special forms or fees.