Using UK Documents in Kenya: Apostille & Consular Legalisation Guide (2025 Edition)
Introduction
If you need to use UK documents in Kenya—such as a UK marriage certificate, degree certificate, or company incorporation papers—you must complete a two-step legalisation process:
1️⃣ UK Apostille legalisation (FCDO)
2️⃣ The Kenya High Commission in London
What is a UK Apostille?
An Apostille is an official certificate issued by the UK Foreign, Commonwealth & Development Office (FCDO). It verifies the authenticity of signatures, stamps, or seals on UK documents.
- Public documents (e.g. birth certificate, marriage certificate, court papers) → can be sent directly to FCDO.
- Private documents (e.g. passport copies, degree certificates, corporate records) → must be certified by a UK solicitor or notary before Apostille.
Legalisation Process for Kenya
To make a UK document valid in Kenya, you must complete both:
- UK Apostille – confirms the document’s authenticity.
- The Kenya High Commission Legalisation – confirms the Apostille is genuine.
Step-by-Step Guide
Step 1: Confirm Document Type
- Official UK documents (e.g. birth/marriage certificates) → go straight to Apostille.
- Other documents (e.g. degree, company documents) → require solicitor/notary certification first.
Step 2: Obtain the UK Apostille
- Apply online via the GOV.UK Legalisation Service.
- Post the original or solicitor-certified copy to the FCDO Legalisation Office.
- Receive the Apostille attached to your document.
Step 3: Apply for the Kenya High Commission Legalisation
Required documents:
- Original Apostilled document
- Photocopy of the Apostilled document
- An application letter explaining the need for legalisation (signed and dated by the applicant)
- A copy of the applicant’s passport (ID page)
Where to submit: The Kenya High Commission, London.
Processing Time & Fees
| Step | Processing Time | Government Fee |
|---|---|---|
| UK Apostille (FCDO) | Few working days | £45 per document |
| Kenya High Commission Legalisation | 5–10 working days | £5 per document |
Payment methods: Postal Order
Opening hours: Mon–Fri, 09:30–12:30 (appointment only).
Key Notes
- Photocopy required: Always include a copy of the Apostilled document.
- Postal Application: Applicants are advised to submit completed applications STRICTLY ONLY via POSTAL SERVICES..
- Exception: Court documents, statutory declarations, and powers of attorney generally do not need legalisation if they have been signed or authenticated by a UK notary public, in accordance with the Kenyan Evidence Act.
The Kenya High Commission (London)
📍 Address: 45 Portland Pl, Marylebone, London W1B 1AS
📞 Phone: 020 7636 2371
📧 Email: london@mfa.go.ke
🌐 Website: www.kenyahighcom.org.uk
Summary
For UK documents to be accepted in Kenya, you must complete:
➡️ Step 1: Apostille at UK FCDO
➡️ Step 2: Consular legalisation at the the Kenya High Commission in London
Why Choose Ginkgo Advisory
Led by a practising solicitor regulated by the Solicitors Regulation Authority (SRA) and registered with the UK FCDO Legalisation Office, Ginkgo Advisory provides:
- Solicitor certification
- UK Apostille service
- The Kenya High Commission legalisation
- Bilingual English–Chinese client support
📱 WhatsApp: +44 7388 833283
💬 WeChat: GinkgoAdvisory
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