A clear, step-by-step guide to registering a company or business name in Kenya through the Business Registration Service on eCitizen.
Starting a formal business in Kenya requires registration through the Business Registration Service (BRS), accessible via eCitizen. The process is straightforward if you know what to prepare. This guide covers the two most common registrations: a business name (sole proprietorship or partnership) and a private limited company.
A business name registration is faster and cheaper — it covers sole proprietorships and partnerships. The owner and the business are legally the same entity: your personal assets are exposed to business debts. This suits small operations, consultants, and freelancers.
A private limited company (Ltd) creates a separate legal entity. The company can own property, enter contracts, and take on liability independently of its shareholders. This is the right choice for most serious businesses, especially those that will have employees, take on investment, or bid for tenders.
For both registrations, you'll need: - A Kenyan national ID or passport (for foreign nationals) - A KRA PIN - An eCitizen account - A proposed business name (have two or three alternatives ready)
For a limited company, you additionally need the details of all directors and shareholders (name, ID, PIN, nationality) and a registered office address in Kenya.
1. Log in to ecitizen.go.ke and go to the Business Registration Service 2. Click Register a Business Name and search your proposed name 3. If available, proceed to reservation (KSh 150 fee) 4. Complete the registration form — name, nature of business, principal place of business, owners' details 5. Pay the registration fee (KSh 850 for a sole proprietorship) 6. Download your Certificate of Registration once approved (typically 1–3 working days)
1. Log in and go to BRS → Register a Limited Company 2. Name search and reservation (KSh 150) 3. Complete the company formation form: memorandum of association, share structure, directors and shareholders 4. Pay the registration fee (KSh 10,650 for up to one million shares) 5. Download the Certificate of Incorporation and CR12 (list of directors) once issued
Turnaround for a limited company is typically 3–7 working days, though complex structures may take longer.
Registered companies must file annual returns every year to keep the company in good standing. Failure to file results in penalties and eventual striking off the register. Annual returns are also filed through eCitizen.
Once your company is registered, the next step is getting a KRA PIN and opening a business bank account. You'll also need to register for VAT if your annual turnover exceeds KSh 5 million.
Mycrea builds web applications and platforms for registered Kenyan businesses — if you're ready to take your new company online, start a conversation with us.
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