A Certificate of Good Conduct is a critical document required for various purposes in Kenya, especially when applying for jobs, particularly in government. It serves as proof that an individual does not have a criminal record and complies with the laws of the country. Many employers require a certificate that was issued within the last three years.
In this guide, we will walk you through the process of applying for the certificate online via the eCitizen platform, including who is eligible and the requirements.
Who Is Eligible for a Certificate of Good Conduct?
The following groups can be issued with a Certificate of Good Conduct in Kenya:
- Kenyans residing in Kenya.
- Kenyans residing abroad.
- Foreign citizens (who are neither aliens nor refugees).
- Foreign citizens (who are aliens and refugees).
Where Is the Certificate of Good Conduct Issued?
The certificate is issued by the Criminal Investigation Department (CID), under the Directorate of Criminal Investigations (DCI). For residents of Nairobi, you can obtain it from the CID headquarters located along Kiambu Road in Muthaiga.
For residents outside Nairobi, the certificate can be processed at Divisional CID offices across the country. The process includes taking fingerprints, and your receipt, ID photocopy, and fingerprint records will be sent to the CID headquarters for review.
Requirements to Apply for a Certificate of Good Conduct
To successfully apply for a Certificate of Good Conduct, you need to meet the following requirements:
- Age: You must be 18 years or older and possess a valid original second-generation ID along with a clear photocopy.
- For applicants under 18 years of age, you need an original birth certificate and a photocopy of it.
- eCitizen Account: You must create an eCitizen account if you don’t already have one. The account registration is free, but ensure you use your own account throughout the process.
- Application Fee: The total cost of the application is Ksh 1,050 (Ksh 1,000 for the certificate and Ksh 50 as a convenience fee), which is payable through Mpesa.
Steps to Apply for a Certificate of Good Conduct in Kenya
Once you meet the requirements, follow these steps to apply for your Certificate of Good Conduct:
Step 1: Log In to Your eCitizen Account
Go to the eCitizen portal and log in with your credentials. If you don’t have an account, you’ll need to create one by providing your personal details.
Step 2: Access the Directorate of Criminal Investigations (DCI) Services
Once you’re logged in, you’ll be directed to your dashboard. Scroll down to the Directorate of Criminal Investigations (DCI) section and click Get Service.
Step 3: Start Your Application
You’ll be presented with a welcome message. Click the Make Application button to start the process.
Step 4: Choose the Type of Application
You will be given two options—Adult Application or Child Application. Select the appropriate option and click Apply.
Step 5: Fill in Your Details
You will be asked to provide information such as where you would like to have your fingerprints taken and the preferred date for the process. Complete the form with accurate details.
Step 6: Payment
Select Mpesa or another payment method and pay the Ksh 1,050 for the certificate. If you choose Mpesa, do not close the page until the payment has been confirmed. You’ll need to present the payment confirmation when you visit the CID office for fingerprinting.
Step 7: Gather Documents for Presentation
When presenting your application at the CID headquarters or your selected CID office, ensure you have the following documents:
- Your original second-generation ID and a clear photocopy (or birth certificate if under 18).
- Two copies of the invoice from your payment on eCitizen.
- One copy of the C24 form, printed on both sides (this can be downloaded from eCitizen after payment).
Step 8: Fingerprinting Process
You will need to appear in person at the selected location to have your fingerprints taken. This is a mandatory part of the process.
How Long Does It Take?
Once the application is submitted and your fingerprints are taken, you will receive your Certificate of Good Conduct within one to two weeks. The certificate can be downloaded from the eCitizen portal once it is ready.
Conclusion
The process of applying for a Certificate of Good Conduct has been simplified with the use of the eCitizen platform. Follow these steps carefully, and you’ll have your certificate in no time, which is crucial for job applications, travel, and other formal requirements in Kenya.
