Register a company in Kenya the right way with this easy, updated 2025 guide. Whether you’re launching a tech startup, a retail business, or a freelance consultancy, setting up a legal business is your first big step. Many entrepreneurs struggle to find the correct starting point — but this article simplifies every stage.
From reserving your business name to getting your KRA PIN and opening a corporate bank account, here’s how to register a company in Kenya without confusion or delays.
1. Reserve Your Business Name on eCitizen
Start by choosing a unique business name and submit it for reservation on the eCitizen portal. You’ll need to:
- Create or log in to your eCitizen account
- Select “Business Name Search and Reservation”
- Submit your desired name(s)
- Pay the reservation fee (approx. KES 150)
If approved, the name will be reserved for 30 days — giving you time to complete the registration.
2. Prepare Your Company Documents
Gather the necessary documentation, which includes:
- Memorandum and Articles of Association (MAA)
- Statement of Nominal Capital
- Notice of Registered Office (Form CR1)
- Particulars of Directors and Shareholders (Form CR2)
- ID/Passport and KRA PINs of directors
- Passport-size photos
You can draft these yourself or use a legal consultant if needed.
3. Register the Company on eCitizen
On the same eCitizen platform:
- Navigate to “Business Registration Service”
- Upload all required documents
- Pay the registration fee (around KES 10,650 for private companies)
Once approved, you will receive a Certificate of Incorporation, which proves your company’s legal existence in Kenya.
4. Apply for a Company KRA PIN
Go to iTax and register your company for a KRA PIN using your Certificate of Incorporation and company details.
The Company PIN is essential for:
- Filing taxes
- Opening a bank account
- Bidding for government contracts
- Import/export licensing
5. Register for Tax Obligations
Based on your business model, register for:
- VAT (Value Added Tax) — mandatory if your turnover exceeds KES 5 million
- PAYE (Pay As You Earn) — if you have employees
- Corporate Tax — standard for all limited companies
You can do this through your iTax account.
6. Get Business Licenses and Permits
Different industries require different licenses, such as:
- Single Business Permit (from your county government)
- Health and Safety Certificates
- Environmental Impact Assessments (EIA)
- Sector-specific licenses (e.g. NEMA, KEBS, CAK)
Check what applies to your business.
7. Open a Company Bank Account
Visit your preferred commercial bank with:
- Certificate of Incorporation
- KRA PIN
- MAA
- Board Resolution to open the account
- Copies of director IDs
Banks may also ask for CR12 or business plans, depending on the institution.
8. Meet Ongoing Compliance Requirements
After you register a company in Kenya, you must:
- File annual returns with the Registrar of Companies
- Renew licenses annually
- Maintain proper records of meetings and finances
- Stay compliant with KRA and labour laws
Failing to do so could result in penalties or even deregistration.
Final Word
To register a company in Kenya, you don’t need a lawyer or middleman. With eCitizen, iTax, and a little diligence, you can do it yourself — affordably and legally. It is the first major step every entrepreneur must take to formalize their business and begin operations legally. Whether you’re launching a tech startup, a manufacturing firm, or a boutique agency, understanding how to register your company can save you time, money, and unnecessary frustration. While every business is unique, following this roadmap ensures you get started on the right foot.
For more support, you should consider speaking to a certified company secretary or tax consultant, especially for complex business models.
