Legalization is the process of authenticating documents by a verifiable office which guarantees that the details contained in that document are the correct record and copy of the original. The legalized document may be used both locally and abroad.

The process involves interrogation of the document with the relevant authorities and having the same certified as a true record by a stamp or a seal. The most common documents that require attestation are; academic certificates, certificates of equivalence, passport document, birth and marriage certificates.

In Kenya, the legalization process involves; 

1. Certification by a notary public. The Notary is tasked with verifying the authenticity of the document;
2. Application to the high court of Kenya for confirmation of the notary public credentials;
3. Submission to the ministry of foreign affairs for confirmation of the high court seal;
4. Verification by the relevant regulator i.e, The Ministry of education, Commission of Higher Education are the authorized regulator of academic degree certificates.
5. Verification of the certified documents with the host embassy, where the document is required. For example, if a Kenyan’s document is required by a company in Mozambique, then the Mozambique embassy will certify the final documents. 

See list of missions, consulates, embassies in Kenya that we can support with the legalization. 

embassies-high-commissioners-and-consulates-in-kenya/

Frequently asked questions

Do I need to be present in person with the original document of legalization?
No, you do not have to be in Kenya to have your documents legalized. At Scribe    Services, we will manage the application process on your behalf to completion.

How long does the process take? 
It will take approximately 10 working days to get your documents legalized. However, this is wholly dependent on the operations at the various government offices and the specific Embassy.
It is our duty to follow up and ensure the process if finalized within the agreed timelines.

Is legalization same as attestation or apostille?
Kenya, not being a party of the Hague Convention, foreign documents are only recognized abroad after the consular legalization processes, which require the documents to confirmed separately.