How to Replace a Lost Birth Certificate Online in Kenya

Why You Might Need a Replacement Birth Certificate

A birth certificate is one of Kenya’s most important legal documents. You’ll need it for:

• Passport or ID applications
• School enrollment
• NHIF/NSSF registration
• Employment
• Visa applications
• KRA PIN and tax registration

If your certificate is lost, damaged, or stolen, it’s crucial to apply for a replacement quickly.

Who Can Apply for a Replacement?

You can request a replacement for:

• Yourself (if you’re 18+)
• Your child (if you’re the parent/guardian)

Foreign nationals born in Kenya may also apply for replacement if their birth was registered here.

Replace a Lost Birth Certificate Online in Kenya

Kenya now allows online replacement applications via the eCitizen Portal. Here’s how:

Step 1: Log In to Your eCitizen Account

Go to eCitizen.go.ke

• If you don’t have an account, click “Create an Account”
• Use your national ID number and a valid email address
• Choose “Citizen” if you’re a Kenyan national

Step 2: Select the Civil Registration Services

Once logged in, scroll and click on “Civil Registration Department”.
Choose the “Apply for Birth Certificate Replacement” option.

Step 3: Fill in the Application Form

You will be required to enter:

• Full name as it appeared on the original certificate
• Date of birth
• Place of birth (County, Hospital)
• Parent’s full names
• ID number of the applicant
• Reason for replacement (e.g. lost, damaged, stolen)

Double-check details before proceeding.

Step 4: Upload Supporting Documents

Scan and upload:

• Copy of your ID card (or birth notification for minors)
• Police abstract (if required in your county)
• Affidavit (for some counties, proving loss)

Note: Upload clear, readable files (PDF or JPG).

Step 5: Pay the Replacement Fee

Standard fee: KES 180
Payment is made via M-PESA, Airtel Money, or card.

M-PESA Example:

• Paybill: Provided by eCitizen during checkout
• Account Number: Auto-generated

Step 6: Download Acknowledgement Slip

After successful payment, you’ll receive an acknowledgement slip and reference number. Save or print this—it’s required when collecting your certificate.

Step 7: Collect Your Certificate

Processing takes 5 to 21 working days, depending on your county.

You’ll be notified via SMS or email when your certificate is ready. Visit the Civil Registration Office where the birth was originally registered with your:

• Original ID
• Acknowledgement slip
• Any documents requested during application

Important Tips

• You must apply using your eCitizen account—walk-ins are not accepted in most counties.
• Ensure your ID or child’s birth notification matches the original details.
• In cases where birth was never registered, apply for late registration first.

Helpful Government Links

• eCitizen Portal – Civil Registration
• Ministry of Interior and Coordination of National Government
• Kenya Law – Births and Deaths Registration Act

Replacing a lost birth certificate in Kenya has never been easier. With the power of the eCitizen platform, you can avoid queues, paperwork, and endless trips to government offices.

At Luvisia Digital, we help you navigate every step, from online account setup to document submission, making sure your application is correct and stress-free.

Need Help with Your Application?

Luvisia Digital offers affordable assistance for:

• Birth certificate replacements
• New registrations
• Translation and document verification

📞 Contact us here or start your application today!