This guide explains the exact procedure for registering a company in Kenya through the eCitizen Business Registration Service (BRS). It applies to startups, SMEs, and established businesses setting up operations in Kenya..


Requirements for Company Registration in Kenya

  • Three proposed company names
  • Description of business activities
  • Physical registered office address in Kenya
  • Director and shareholder identification documents
  • KRA PIN certificates for directors and shareholders
  • Shareholding and share capital details
  • Beneficial ownership information

Step-by-Step Procedure to Register a Company in Kenya

  1. Create an eCitizen account: Log in to eCitizen and access Business Registration Service (BRS).
  2. Name reservation: Submit up to three company names for approval.
  3. Complete statutory forms: Fill CR1, CR2, CR8 and beneficial ownership details.
  4. Upload documents: Upload ID documents and PIN certificates.
  5. Pay incorporation fees: Pay statutory fees online.
  6. Download incorporation documents: Certificate of Incorporation and CR12.

Post-Incorporation Compliance Steps

  • Register company KRA PIN and applicable taxes
  • Open a corporate bank account
  • Apply for county business permits
  • Register for PAYE, NSSF and NHIF if hiring staff
  • File annual returns with the Registrar of Companies

Special Note on Non-Resident Directors

Where a director or shareholder is non-resident, additional documentation such as notarised identification may be required. These requirements do not change the core registration procedure outlined above.

For a detailed legal guide on ownership and investment structures, see: Foreign-Owned Business Registration in Kenya.

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Biz Brokers Kenya for Company registration

  • Local experts in Kenyan company & licensing law
  • Fast: typical incorporation and initial compliance in 3–5 working days
  • Full AML/CTF and regulatory compliance support
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Mamba Village Kisumu | "Biz Brokers handled our registration and work permits quickly — clear process, reliable results.” — Managing Director, Logistics Company (KE)"
Oxy Ville Limited

Outcome: Company registered + investor permit issued in 12 business days. Scope: registration, KRA, PIN, work permit facilitation. Result: client opened operations in Nairobi.

Frequently Asked Questions

Do I need a Kenyan company secretary?

A company secretary is optional for most private companies. In certain cases involving complex ownership or regulatory requirements, appointing a qualified secretary may be advisable.

What is required to open a corporate bank account?

Banks typically require incorporation documents, KRA PIN, proof of registered office and director IDs. Requirements vary by bank — we assist with bank introductions and KYC preparation.

Can I register a one-person company?

Yes. Kenyan law allows one person to be both director and shareholder for a private limited company.

Company Registration Support

We assist investors with company incorporation, notarisation guidance, KRA PIN registration, company secretarial services, and post-registration compliance.

Call +254757884710 | Email: info@bizbrokerskenya.com | Chat on WhatsApp | Khose Plaza, off Argings Khodhek Road, Kilimani, Nairobi

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Why choose Biz Brokers Kenya?

We specialise in cross-border incorporations, notarisations and investor permits — practical experience with Nairobi banks and regulators.

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