Guide for foreigners on Good conduct application from abroad. Includes required documents, fees, and processing times.
If you are a Kenyan Citizen, read the Application Guide here
If you’re a foreign national who previously lived in Kenya for six months or more and now resides in another country, you may need a Kenyan Police Clearance Certificate —also known as a Certificate of Good Conduct—for employment, immigration, or visa purposes. This guide walks you through the application process step by step, based on official requirements from Kenyan embassies and the Directorate of Criminal Investigations (DCI).
Table of Contents
Who Needs a Good Conduct Certificate?
You are eligible to apply if you are a non-Kenyan citizen who legally resided in Kenya for a continuous period of six months or longer. The certificate confirms that you have no criminal record in Kenya during your time there, and it is typically valid for 12 months from the date of issue.
Step-by-Step Good Conduct Application Process
1. Gather Your Required Documents
Before you begin, assemble the following:
- Certified copy of your passport – Include all pages, especially those showing entry/exit stamps and visa endorsements.
- Proof of residency in Kenya – This can include copies of your residence permit, work permit, alien ID card, dependent/pupil pass, appointment letters, or tenancy agreements.
- Completed fingerprint form (C24) – Your fingerprints and palm prints must be taken on the prescribed Kenya Police form at a police station in your current country of residence.
- Covering letter – A formal letter explaining why you need the certificate, addressed to DCI Headquarters Nairobi.
- Payment receipt – Proof of fee payment to the Kenyan mission handling your application.
Important: Fingerprints must be taken in black ink on the official DCI form (Form C24). Photocopies or prints used in previous applications are not accepted. The form must bear the official stamp or seal of the police station or fingerprinting agency.
2. Contact the Nearest Kenyan Mission
Locate the Kenyan embassy or high commission in your country of current residence. Do not send your application directly to DCI Headquarters unless instructed to do so by the mission. The embassy will guide you on:
- Local processing fees (varies by country; e.g., €15 in Austria, $20 in Pakistan, or ₹700 in India).
- Payment methods (bank transfer, demand draft, or credit card).
- Submission procedures (by post, courier, or in-person appointment).
3. Have Your Fingerprints Taken
Visit your local police station to have your rolled and plain fingerprints and palm prints recorded on the DCI form. Ensure the officer signs, stamps, and seals the form. Some embassies also accept fingerprinting through authorized private agencies.
4. Compile and Forward Your Application
Package your complete application, which must include:
- Original payment receipt.
- Certified copy of your passport.
- Documentary proof of Kenyan residence.
- Fingerprint form (stamped and certified).
- Covering letter.
Submit this package to the Kenyan mission in your country, which will forward it to DCI Headquarters in Nairobi, Kenya.
Processing Times and Fees
- Processing time: Expect at least 2 to 3 months, and sometimes longer, as the DCI verifies your records and the mission handles forwarding and return postage.
- Fees: Vary by country and mission. Typical costs include the DCI application fee (KES 2,050 for foreigners) plus the embassy processing fee and fingerprinting charges.
Common Pitfalls to Avoid
- Missing or unclear fingerprints – This is the most common cause of rejection. Ensure prints are clear, complete, and officially endorsed.
- Incomplete proof of residency – Provide clear copies of visas, permits, or employment records covering your entire stay in Kenya.
- Uncertified passport copies – Have all copies certified by a notary or the issuing authority.
- Using the wrong form – Always use the prescribed DCI C24 form, not generic fingerprint cards.
Final Checklist Before Good Conduct Application
- Certified passport copy
- Proof of Kenyan residency (visa, permit, letters)
- DCI fingerprint form (black ink, stamped, signed)
- Cover letter explaining your need for the certificate
- Payment receipt from the Kenyan mission
- Self-addressed return envelope with sufficient postage
Applying from abroad requires patience and attention to detail. By following these steps and coordinating with your nearest Kenyan embassy, you can obtain your Good Conduct without needing to return to Kenya. If you’re unsure about any requirement, contact the mission directly or consider using an authorized service provider to assist with follow-ups in Nairobi.
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