Notarization is a formal process in which a Notary Public confirms that a document was voluntarily signed by a verified individual. Notarization helps prevent fraud and ensures your document will be legally recognized globally. In Kenya, a Notary Public must be a qualified advocate with at least five years of experience and is officially appointed by the Chief Justice.
The method you choose for notarization depends on the document’s intended use. For documents that will be used within Kenya, such as wills, loan agreements, or land deeds, you are required to meet a notary lawyer in-person. For documents intended for international use, such as visa applications or employment affidavits, you have the flexibility to choose either online or in-person notarization. Both methods are equally valid and legally recognized.
Online Notarization
Several platforms in Kenya now support online notarization. Below is a simple step-by-step guide using Notary Africa, one of the commonly used platforms. The same process generally applies to other platforms as well.
Phase 1: Prepare the Document
Before you begin the process, carefully read the document you intend to notarize and ensure you agree with its contents. Also, the document should be in PDF format.
Phase 2: Select Notary Advocate
Visit notaryafrica.com and browse the available notary advocates. You may filter by price, ratings, or other criteria to select the most suitable option. The service price typically starts at KSh 1,000. Once you have selected a notary advocate, proceed to make payment.
Phase 3: Submit Your Information
After payment, you will receive a link to an online form. Complete the form and upload the following:
- Personal details: Enter your full legal name and other required information in the online form. If you’ve previously undergone an official name, there will be a space to indicate it.
- Document to be notarized: Upload the PDF (you want to notarize) exactly as downloaded. Do not fill in your name, signature or date directly on the downloaded document. All those details will be inserted by the notary advocate after verification.
- Government-issued ID or Student ID: Upload a clear copy of a valid government-issued ID. Or if you have a student ID from an accredited Kenyan educational institution, it is also acceptable.
- Signature: Provide your signature by drawing it directly within the online form. This signature will also be inserted into the final document by the notary advocate.
Phase 4: Advocate Review
The notary advocate will verify that the name you submitted match your identification documents. Once verification is complete, the advocate will:
- Insert your verified details (name, signature, and date) into the document
- Apply their official notarial seal, stamp, and signature.
Phase 5: Delivery and Confirmation
Your notarized document will be emailed to you within one to two days. Once you’re satisfied with the final document and confirm delivery. Your payment will then be released to the notary advocate.
In-Person Notarization
If you prefer to meet a notary face-to-face, simply schedule an appointment at any law firm within your location. Bring along your printed document and a valid ID. The notary will review and certify the document during your visit. Costs for in-person notarization generally range from KSh 2,000 – 3,000, depending on the location and reputation of the firm.
Final Thoughts
Notarization adds an important layer of protection to your documents. It confirms their authenticity and ensures they are legally recognized. Whether you choose the convenience of online notarization or the traditional in-person route, the process helps safeguard your interests. Select the option that best suits your needs, timeline, and budget.
