Starting a business in Kenya begins with formal registration through the Business Registration Service (BRS), a state corporation under the Office of the Attorney General.
Thanks to digitisation, the entire process is now done online via the eCitizen platform, making it faster and more accessible.
If you are planning to open a limited company, sole proprietorship, or partnership, here is a detailed guide on how to go about it.
Step 1: Create an E-Citizen account
To begin, you must have an active eCitizen account (www.ecitizen.go.ke). If you don’t have one, register using your National ID number, email address, and phone number. Foreign nationals can register using their passport details.
Once logged in, select the Business Registration Service (BRS) option on the dashboard.
Step 2: Conduct a name search
Before registering a company, you must reserve a unique business name.
Under BRS, click on “Make Application” and choose “Name Search/Reservation.” You will be required to propose at least one business name (it is advisable to submit two or three alternatives in case the first is rejected).
There is a small fee payable via mobile money, debit card, or bank transfer through eCitizen. After payment, the name search typically takes 1–3 working days. If approved, the name is reserved for 30 days, giving you time to complete registration.
Step 3: Choose the Type of Business Entity
Kenya allows different types of business entities, including:
- Sole Proprietorship
- Partnership
- Private Limited Company (Ltd)
- Limited Liability Partnership (LLP)
- Public Limited Company
Most entrepreneurs opt for a Private Limited Company because it limits personal liability.
Step 4: Fill and Upload CR Forms
For a Private Limited Company, you will need to complete and upload several forms, commonly referred to as CR forms:
- CR1 – Application to register a company
- CR2 – Model Memorandum for a company with share capital
- CR8 – Notice of residential address of directors
- BN6 – Statement of nominal capital
These forms are auto-generated on the BRS portal after you input details such as:
- Company directors’ names and ID numbers
- KRA PIN numbers
- Physical and postal address
- Shareholding structure
You will upload scanned copies of directors’ IDs, passport photos, and KRA PIN certificates. Ensure all documents are clear and legible to avoid rejection.
Step 5: Pay Registration Fees
The registration fee depends on the company’s nominal share capital. Payment is made through eCitizen. Once paid, your documents are reviewed by the Registrar of Companies.
Step 6: Receive Certificate of Incorporation
If everything is in order, the Registrar will approve the application and issue a Certificate of Incorporation electronically. This document confirms that your company legally exists.
After incorporation, you should:
- Apply for a KRA PIN for the company
- Register for relevant taxes (VAT, PAYE if hiring employees)
- Apply for necessary business permits from your county government
Final Tips
Accuracy is critical. Any mismatch in ID numbers, PIN details, or addresses may delay approval. Many applicants also consult company secretaries or legal professionals to ensure compliance, especially for complex shareholding structures.
Registering a company in Kenya has become significantly easier through BRS digitisation. With proper documentation and careful form submission, the process can be completed within days, setting you on the path to formal business operations.
