Certified translation in London for use in Kenya
Kenyan authorities require all foreign documents to be accompanied by a certified translation into English, as Kenya's legal system works in English. Whether you need to present academic records, civil registration papers, or commercial documents, each page of the original must be matched by an English version with a signed statement of accuracy. Westminster Register Office can provide certified copies of civil records like birth, marriage, or death certificates from their location at 317 Harrow Road, London W9 3RJ. Using a fresh certified copy for translation protects your original document from loss or damage during the process.
The language Kenya requires
English is the official language for all Kenyan government and legal matters, making it the sole language accepted for official document translations. Your certified translation into English in London must precisely match the original text, line by line, including any stamps, signatures, or marginal notes. While you do not need a Kenyan-certified translator, the work must be done by a qualified professional who follows the standard conventions for legal and official translations. The final package includes both the translated text and a signed certificate of accuracy that confirms the translator's credentials and the precise equivalence of the translation.
Certification Kenya accepts
A standard certified translation suffices for Kenya, without the need for a sworn English translator in London. The translator signs a certificate of accuracy, which is then stamped with the translation company's official seal. This combination serves as proof that the translation is complete and faithful to the original document. For the authentication of the underlying document itself, the FCDO Legalisation Office can provide an apostille through their postal service at PO Box 6255, Milton Keynes MK10 1XX, which may be required alongside the certified translation.
Per-page cost and completion time
A standard certified translation for Kenya is priced per page, with letters, diplomas, and short documents completed within a few working days. The cost reflects the complexity of the text, the need for specialist knowledge, and the time taken to prepare the certification package. Urgent jobs that need a faster return are available at a higher rate, with some providers able to complete straightforward documents before the next working day. When ordering, provide clear scans or good quality photos of each page to help assess the exact page count and spot any text that might need special attention.
What Kenyan authorities need
Your official English translation in London for Kenya must be submitted as part of a complete document set that typically includes both the original and the translated version bound together. The National Registration Bureau and other Kenyan offices require clear, easy-to-read translations where every mark on the original finds its equivalent. While an embassy legalization is sometimes required beyond the apostille, this depends on the specific authority receiving your file and the type of transaction involved. Keep a duplicate of both the original and the certified translation in London for Kenya, as you may need to show them to multiple offices during your application process.