In Kenya, a birth certificate is an essential document used for various purposes, such as applying for a passport, school admission, and government services. Thanks to the digitization of government services, applying for a birth certificate has become more accessible through the eCitizen portal. This guide will walk you through the step-by-step process of how to apply for a Kenyan birth certificate online.
1. Create an eCitizen Account
To start the process, you need to have an active eCitizen account. If you don’t have one, follow these steps:
- Visit the eCitizen website.
- Click on “Create an Account.”
- Choose the appropriate option for registration (Kenyan Citizen, Foreign Resident, or Business).
- Fill in your personal details, including your ID number and mobile phone number.
- Verify your account by entering the confirmation code sent to your mobile phone.
Once your eCitizen account is active, you can log in to begin the application process for a birth certificate.
2. Navigate to Civil Registration Services
After logging into your eCitizen account, navigate to the Civil Registration Services section. This is where you can apply for a birth certificate, death certificate, and other vital registration services.
- Select “Civil Registration Services” from the list of services.
- Click on “Apply for a Birth Certificate.”
3. Fill in the Application Form
You will be prompted to fill out an online application form. Be sure to have the following details on hand:
- Full name of the child.
- Date and place of birth.
- Parents’ full names and ID numbers.
- Details of any previous registration (if applicable).
If you are applying for a birth certificate for a child who is already registered, you will need the birth notification number. For new applications, ensure all details are correct to avoid delays in processing.
4. Choose the Type of Application
You will need to choose whether you are applying for a birth certificate for:
- A newborn (within six months of birth),
- A late registration (if the birth was not registered within six months),
- Or a replacement (for lost or damaged birth certificates).
Late registration may require additional documentation, such as a letter from a religious institution or a school, to verify the applicant’s birth details.
5. Pay the Application Fee
Once you have completed the form, the next step is to pay the application fee. The fee for applying for a birth certificate in Kenya varies depending on the type of application:
- New registration: KSh 150.
- Late registration: KSh 150 – KSh 200 (depending on the county).
- Replacement: KSh 100.
Payments are made through the eCitizen portal via mobile money services such as M-Pesa or through debit/credit cards.
6. Submit the Application
After paying the application fee, submit the form through the eCitizen portal. You will receive a confirmation message with a reference number that you can use to track the progress of your application.
7. Collecting the Birth Certificate
Processing times for birth certificates vary depending on your location. In urban areas like Nairobi, the process typically takes between 1 to 2 weeks, while rural areas may take longer. Once your application is approved, you will receive a notification on when and where to collect the birth certificate.
Typically, you will collect the document from the local civil registration office where you registered the birth. Be sure to bring a copy of your payment receipt and any identification documents when collecting the birth certificate.
Conclusion
Applying for a Kenyan birth certificate online is a simple and straightforward process, thanks to the eCitizen portal. By following the steps outlined above, you can easily apply for this vital document from the comfort of your home. Ensure that you have all the necessary details before starting the application to avoid any delays. If you encounter any issues, you can always reach out to the Civil Registration Services for assistance.
