Changing a child’s name in Kenya, whether due to personal reasons or discrepancies on official documents, is a process governed by legal requirements. Whether it’s for a newly born child or an older child, the procedure varies. Similarly, changing your own name on your national ID in Kenya requires a formal process, including a Deed Poll, legal documentation, and approval. This article provides step-by-step guidance on how to change a child’s name in Kenya, how to change your ID names, and the necessary legal procedures involved.
How to Change a Child’s Name in Kenya
Changing a child’s name can be a simple or more complex process, depending on the child’s age. Here’s what you need to know about changing a child’s name in Kenya:
For Children Under 2 Years
If your child is under 2 years old, the process is fairly simple. You can visit the nearest Registrar of Persons Office (where birth certificates are processed) and inform the officer that you want to change your child’s name. Here’s how:
- Visit the Registrar of Persons Office.
- Fill out the prescribed form to initiate the name change.
- Attach the original birth certificate and any other required documentation.
- Pay a small fee (usually around Kshs. 60 to Kshs. 180, subject to change).
- Wait for the processing, which typically takes about 2 months.
For Older Children (2 to 16 Years)
For children aged between 2 to 16 years, the process is more involved. You may need to present additional documents, and it is advisable to involve a lawyer in this process. The requirements for changing the name of an older child include:
- Swearing a Deed Poll: This is an official document that acknowledges the change of name. It is a legal requirement under the Registration of Documents Act, Cap 285, 2010.
- Required Documentation:
- Deed Poll: This must be sworn at the DCI offices, where your fingerprints are taken to ensure the name change is not for criminal reasons.
- A letter from your local chief or any other legally recognized person who has known the child by their original name for more than 10 years.
- Parental consent: If the child is above 16 years old, their consent is required. For children under 16, the parent or legal guardian will swear the Deed Poll on their behalf.
- Parent’s identification: You’ll need copies of the parents’ National ID, birth certificates, or death certificates (if a parent is deceased).
- For married women: A written consent from your husband, especially if changing to or dropping the spouse’s surname, is required.
- For divorced individuals: A Decree Nissi (court order) is needed to show that the marriage has been legally dissolved.
For Children 16 to 18 Years Old
For children who are above 16 but under 18, both the parent and the child need to be involved in the process. The child’s consent is required, and they must also be involved in swearing the Deed Poll along with the parent.
How to Change Your ID Name in Kenya
If you wish to change your own name on your National ID, whether due to marriage, divorce, or other personal reasons, the process is as follows:
- Engage a Licensed Advocate: Start by consulting a lawyer who is familiar with name change procedures. The lawyer will guide you through the documentation and help swear the Deed Poll.
- Swearing the Deed Poll: This involves swearing an official document (Form 1) at the DCI offices, where your fingerprints will be taken. The Deed Poll confirms your intent to change your name legally.
- Letter of Confirmation from the Chief: You will need a letter from your local chief or another person who has known you by the name you wish to change from, for at least 10 years.
- Additional Documents:
- If you’re married, you need written consent from your husband.
- If you’re divorced, you will need a Decree Nissi (court order).
- If the name change is for a child, the parent must swear the Deed Poll on their behalf.
- Birth certificates and ID copies of both the child (if applicable) and the parent(s) are necessary.
- Gazettement of the New Name: Once your Deed Poll is processed, your new name will be gazetted. This step is crucial for the legal recognition of the name change.
- Apply for a New ID: After gazettement, visit your nearest Registrar of Persons Office to apply for a new ID with your updated name. You will need to submit the gazette notice, the Deed Poll, and the application fee.
How to Add a Third Name to Your Child’s Birth Certificate
If you want to add a third name to your child’s birth certificate, follow these steps:
- Swear a Deed Poll: Just like for an adult’s name change, a Deed Poll is required to add a name.
- Visit the Registrar of Persons Office: After the Deed Poll is processed, you can go to the office and request to add the name to the birth certificate.
- Complete the necessary form and pay a small fee.
Adding a name is generally easier than removing one, but it is still an official legal process.
FAQs: How to Change a Child’s Name or ID Name in Kenya
How Long Does the Process Take?
The entire name change process can take anywhere between 2 to 6 months depending on the complexity of the case, the age of the child, and the involvement of a lawyer.
Can I Change My Name Without a Lawyer?
While it is possible, it is highly advisable to engage a lawyer, especially if the name change involves legal complexities, such as adoption, divorce, or for a child aged above 2 years.
What If I Don’t Have the Birth Certificate?
If you don’t have the birth certificate, you may need to visit the Registrar of Persons Office or your local sub-chief to retrieve the necessary documents.
Conclusion
Changing a child’s name or your own ID name in Kenya is a legal process that requires various steps, from swearing a Deed Poll to gazetting your new name. Whether you are changing a child’s name under 2 years old or you’re an adult looking to update your ID details, the process remains largely consistent, though it requires different documentation depending on age.
Engage a lawyer for a smoother experience and ensure you follow all required procedures.
Good luck with your name change process!
