Accessing birth certificates in Kenya is set to become faster and more convenient following the government’s introduction of a new digital system that allows citizens to download and print the documents online.
The move marks a significant shift in civil registration services, eliminating the need for applicants to travel to Huduma Centres or civil registry offices to collect their certificates after approval.
The development was announced by Interior Cabinet Secretary Kipchumba Murkomen on Monday, June 22, as part of the government’s ongoing efforts to digitize public services and enhance citizen access to essential documents.
According to the Cabinet Secretary, the new system is designed to reduce the delays, costs and bureaucratic hurdles that have traditionally characterized the process of obtaining birth certificates.
“Kenyans can now download and print birth certificates online, a significant step towards improving accessibility and reducing the time required to obtain essential documents,” he said.
Previously, although applications for birth certificates could be submitted through the eCitizen platform, applicants were still required to visit civil registration offices to collect the documents.
The latest changes now allow users to complete the entire process online
The initiative is expected to benefit thousands of Kenyans by saving time and reducing travel expenses, particularly for those living far from government service centres.
Requirements for Online Birth Certificate Application
Applicants seeking a birth certificate through the digital platform must first access the Civil Registration Services section on the eCitizen portal.
To complete the application, applicants must provide required details and documents including a birth notification number received through SMS, email or an Acknowledgment of Birth Notification (ABN).
Other requirements include a national identification document, details of the parent or guardian, and an active mobile phone number and email address for communication and status updates.
Individuals applying for amendments will also be required to provide parents’ identification documents and any supporting documents relevant to the changes being requested.
Applicants must pay the applicable fees, which stand at Sh200 for standard birth certificate applications and Sh1,000 for amendment cases, in addition to the eCitizen access fee.
Application Process
The online application process begins with logging into an eCitizen account and selecting the “Application for Child’s Current Birth Certificate” option.
Applicants are then required to enter the requested information and upload scanned copies of their identification documents together with the birth notification.
The next step involves paying the prescribed processing fee through the available mobile money payment options.
Once the application is submitted and approved, the birth certificate can be downloaded directly from the platform and printed from any location with internet access.
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