Documents required to marry in Kenya
Kenya is an incredible place to marry, whether you wish to wed on a safari in Masai Mara, in a church or on the beach, there are lots of great options of your disposal. Generally, we recommend formally tying the knot in your home country and then having a blessing in the country of your destination wedding. However, if you would like to formally wed in Kenya, it is not excessively difficult, you just need to make sure you follow these guidelines appropriately:
- One of the first things you need to organise is the marriage licence. For a standard marriage licence, you have to visit the Nairobi Registrar General in person 21 days before your wedding date. As this is generally inconvenient for most people, you can also apply for a Special Licence whereby you only have to visit the Nairobi Registrar General 4 days beforehand. Make sure you have all the documents listed below with you.
- Be aware of the fact that you may need to show your departure flight ticket to the registry office. At the very least, showing this flight ticket will at least speed up the process.
- You will also be required to pay a slightly enhanced fee if you don't want to formally wed in the registrar's office. If you wish to marry in a church, it helps to have a supporting letter from your priest in England.
- After the 4 days have passed, you will know if your application has been accepted and then you are free to marry!
As always, if you are in any doubt, contact your local embassy in Nairobi and they will be able to give you the most up-to-date advice.
Necessary Documents
- Passport
- Passport sized photos
- Birth certificate
- Copy of the 2 witnesses' passports
- Tourist card (for entering Kenya)
- Proof of departure from Kenya
- Fee
- A sworn affidavit stating you can legally marry (ie. a marriage licence)
- Divorce certificate (if necessary from previous marriage)
- Death certificate (if you have been widowed)
Sources
Sources updated 15th May 2024
This information is appropriate for UK nationals getting married overseas. We always advise that you contact the relevant embassy for information before booking any trips. This information is up to date to the best of our knowledge.