How to Register a Foreign-Born Child in Kenya

Kenyans living abroad can also register for their children and apply for a birth certificate. This process is facilitated by the Kenyan Embassy in the countries they are domiciled. 

The application process takes much longer than others since your documents have to be sent to Kenya.

The application and registration is only applicable if the child was born outside the country but to Kenyan parents.

To be eligible for registration;

1.  The child must be born outside of Kenya.
2. The Child must have at least one parent who holds a Kenyan citizenship.

To register a birth certificate in Kenya, several documents and pieces of information are required. These include:

1. Application Form BDA 1 duly filled.
2. A certified birth certificate from the child's country of birth.
3. A certified passport of the child, either Kenyan or foreign.
4. If a parent has dual citizenship, they must declare this or provide proof of the declaration.
5. For a Kenyan parent, present a certified Kenyan ID and valid passport at the time of the child's birth. If the other parent is foreign, their ID or passport is required. 
6. If the child is over 18, provide a certified Kenyan passport or a document confirming regaining Kenyan citizenship.
7. Non-English birth certificates must be translated and certified; both versions (original and translation) are required.
8. If one parent lacks ID documents, they may need to swear an affidavit or show a divorce decree. 

All documents should be originals with photocopies; certification by an Embassy may be necessary.

The step-by-step process for applying for birth registration abroad can be completed using the following application channels:

1. E-citizen Portal: Access the E-citizen portal's Civil Registration Services section to gather necessary information and guidelines.
2. Visit the Kenyan Embassy or Consulate: Locate and visit the nearest Kenyan Embassy or Consulate to submit your documents in person.
3. Fill Out the Application Form: Obtain and complete the birth certificate application form (BDA 1) provided by the embassy or consulate, ensuring all details are accurate.
4. Submit the Application: After completing the application form, submit it along with all required documents to finalize your application process.

Here is a detailed price breakdown of the charges applicable when applying through the eCitizen platform;

Please note that fees may vary depending on the embassy or consulate charges and application document postage costs.

Processing time takes 3 months or more depending on the time it takes for the department of civil registration in Kenya to verify parents’ citizenship details.

It’s advisable for parents to contact the nearest Kenyan embassy or consulate for specific guidelines and any additional requirements that may apply based on their unique circumstances.

E-citizen Portal's Civil Registration Services

FORM BDA 1