Applying for a Certificate of Good Conduct in Kenya is now easier, with most of the process available online through eCitizen.
Also known as a Police Clearance Certificate, the document is issued by the Directorate of Criminal Investigations (DCI). It is commonly required for employment, immigration, scholarships and other official applications.
How Much Does Good Conduct Cost?
The current application fee for Kenyan applicants is KSh1,050, including a KSh1,000 Police Clearance Certificate fee and a KSh50 eCitizen access fee.
For foreign applicants, the applicable Police Clearance Certificate fee is KSh1,000, alongside the relevant eCitizen access fee.
Before applying, ensure you have your own eCitizen account. The DCI advises applicants to use their personal accounts when applying for their certificates.
Step 1: Create or Log Into Your eCitizen Account
Start by visiting the official DCI eCitizen portal. You must have an eCitizen account to apply. If you do not have one, create an account and log in.
DCI directs both Kenyan citizens and eligible non-citizens in Kenya to use the DCI eCitizen portal for applications. Once logged in, select the Police Clearance Certificate service.
Step 2: Start Your Application
Read the instructions displayed on the portal carefully. For an adult Kenyan applicant, select the appropriate Adult Application option.
Enter the required personal information and review your details before continuing. Make sure your information matches your identification documents to avoid unnecessary corrections or delays.
Step 3: Choose Your Fingerprinting Location
The application requires you to select where you will have your fingerprints taken.
According to DCI, fingerprinting is available at:
All Huduma Centres countrywide
- DCI Headquarters
- Refugees Affairs Secretariat for refugees
- Kenyan embassies and high commissions for applicants abroad
- Other locations listed on the application platform.
- Your selected location will also appear on your C24 form.
Step 4: Pay the Application Fee
After completing the application, select the available payment option and pay the required Police Clearance Certificate fee.
For a Kenyan applicant, the current fee is KSh1,050. After payment, make sure the transaction is confirmed before proceeding.
Step 5: Download and Print Your Documents
Once payment is completed, download the documents generated by the system.
You need to print:
- Two copies of the invoice
- One copy of Form C24 printed on both sides of an A4 sheet
These documents are required when you report for fingerprint recording.
Step 6: Prepare Your Identification Document
For an adult Kenyan applicant, carry your original National ID when going for fingerprinting. DCI requires you to present the original ID together with the C24 and invoices at the fingerprinting centre you selected during the application.
For applicants who are 16 or 17 years old, the process is different. A parent or guardian must make the application through their eCitizen account, and the minor presents the required documents, including the original birth certificate.
Step 7: Have Your Fingerprints Taken
Visit your selected fingerprinting centre with your required documents. Fresh fingerprints are required whenever you apply for a new Police Clearance Certificate.
DCI says fingerprints are used for the processing and verification of the certificate. After fingerprint recording, the application proceeds to processing.
Step 8: Wait for Your Certificate
Once the certificate is ready, DCI sends an SMS notification. You can then log into your eCitizen account and download the Police Clearance Certificate.
DCI says the turnaround time has been reduced from the previous two weeks to 24 hours, all matters constant. Its latest biometric system rollout is also expected to reduce processing from an average of 14 days to as little as one day under optimum operating conditions.
Step 9: Verify Your Certificate
You can verify the authenticity of your Police Clearance Certificate through the official DCI verification portal.
Alternatively, DCI says you can send DCI to 21546, then dial *512# and select Police Clearance.
Where Can You Get Help?
If you experience difficulties with the process, DCI lists a toll-free number, 0800 722 203, for assistance.
What Applicants Should Remember
Before leaving for fingerprinting, double-check that you have your original ID, two printed invoices and C24. Also, use only the official DCI eCitizen platform when making your application.
Finally, remember that the information contained in a Police Clearance Certificate is valid as of its date of issue, according to DCI.
