Steps For Registering A Business In Kenya

  • June 7, 2025
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Steps For Registering A Business In Kenya

Registering a business in Kenya involves several steps, depending on the type of business structure you choose (sole proprietorship, partnership, limited liability company, etc.). Below is a step-by-step guide to registering a business in Kenya:

  1. Choose a Business Structure

The most common business structures in Kenya are:

  • Sole Proprietorship – Owned by one person (simple but unlimited liability).
  • Partnership – Owned by two or more people (governed by a partnership agreement).
  • Private Limited Company (LTD) – A separate legal entity with limited liability.
  • Public Limited Company (PLC) – For large businesses with shares traded publicly.

  1. Conduct a Business Name Search

  • Visit the eCitizen portal (www.ecitizen.go.ke) and create an account.
  • Go to the Business Registration Service (BRS) section.
  • Search for your desired business name to ensure it’s unique and available.

  1. Register the Business

    * For Sole Proprietorship or Partnership
  • After name reservation, apply for business registration under the Registration of Business Names Act.
  • Submit required documents:
    • Copy of ID/Passport (for owners).
    • Passport-size photos (for proprietors/partners).
    • KRA PIN certificate.
  • Pay the registration fee (varies based on business type).
  • Once approved, download the Certificate of Registration.
   * For a Limited Company (LTD or PLC)
  • Submit documents via the Companies Registry on eCitizen:
    • Memorandum & Articles of Association (signed by directors/shareholders).
    • Form CR1 (for directors and company secretary).
    • ID copies of directors/shareholders.
    • KRA PIN certificates of directors.
  • Pay the registration fee (varies based on share capital).
  • Once approved, receive a Certificate of Incorporation.

  1. Register with the Kenya Revenue Authority (KRA)

  • Apply for a Personal Identification Number (PIN) if you don’t have one.
  • Obtain a Tax Compliance Certificate (TCC).
  • If applicable, register for VAT &  PAYE
  • Register for electronic tax invoicing (e-tims)

  1. Obtain Necessary Licenses & Permits

Depending on your business type, you may need additional licenses:

  • Single Business Permit (from the county government).
  • Health & Safety Certificates (for food, health-related businesses).
  • NEMA License (for environmental compliance).
  • Specialized Licenses (e.g., from CAK for communications, CMA for financial services).

  1. Open a Business Bank Account

  • Present your Certificate of Registration/Incorporation, KRA PIN, and identification documents.
  • Choose a bank that suits your business needs.

  1. Register with NSSF & SHIF (if hiring employees)

  • Mandatory for employers to register employees with:
    • National Social Security Fund (NSSF).
    • Social Health Insurance Fund (SHIF).

  1. Additional Registrations (if applicable)

  • Import/Export Businesses: Register with Kenya Trade Network Agency (KENTRADE).
  • Manufacturing: Register with Kenya Bureau of Standards (KEBS).

 

https://blog.hisibati-consulting.co.ke/blog/

https://www.linkedin.com/newsletters/tax-updates-6926152810094821376/



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