Register your business
Registration in Kenya isn't hard — it's just bureaucratic. Knowing the exact order of steps, what each costs, and which documents you need before you log in to eCitizen saves weeks.
What this step covers
- Reserve a name, complete CR forms, and file with the Business Registration Service.
- Get your company KRA PIN, register for relevant taxes (VAT, PAYE, TOT) and statutory deductions.
- Open a business bank account and apply for the right county single business permit.
The detail
The full registration journey at a glance
- Name search & reservation on eCitizen (BRS) — KES 950, 1 day.
- File BN (sole prop) or CR1/CR2/CR8 (Ltd) — KES 950 or KES 10,650.
- Receive Certificate of Registration / Incorporation — 1–3 working days.
- Update KRA: company PIN issued automatically with Ltd; sole props amend personal PIN.
- Register tax obligations: VAT (if turnover > KES 5M), PAYE (if employing), TOT (if KES 1–25M turnover).
- Open a corporate bank account.
- Apply for the county Single Business Permit.
- Register with NSSF, SHIF, and NITA if you employ anyone.
Costs you should budget (2025)
| Item | Cost (KES) | Frequency |
|---|---|---|
| Name reservation | 950 | Per attempt |
| Sole prop registration | 950 | One-off |
| Ltd company registration | 10,650 | One-off |
| County Single Business Permit | 5,000 – 80,000 | Annual |
| Bank account opening | 0 – 5,000 | One-off |
| Advisor/lawyer assistance (optional) | 10,000 – 50,000 | One-off |
Names too similar to existing businesses, restricted words (Bank, University), incomplete beneficial-owner declarations, and using a PO Box as registered office. Get these right before you submit.
Reserve the same name in KIPI's trademark database (KES 4,000) the same week you register at BRS. Trademark protection prevents copycats from registering similar names later.
Frequently asked
How long does the full registration take?+
For a sole prop, 3–5 working days end-to-end. For a Ltd, 7–14 working days including KRA and bank account.
Can I register from outside Kenya?+
Yes for a Ltd, as long as you have a registered office address in Kenya and at least one director with a Kenyan KRA PIN (or a nominee director). Foreign branches follow a separate process.
What happens if I skip the county permit?+
County inspectors do walk into shops. Operating without an SBP triggers fines, padlocking, and back-payments — almost always more expensive than just paying upfront.
The information in this guide is provided for general guidance only and is subject to change. Fees, timelines, and regulatory requirements in Kenya are updated regularly. Before acting, please confirm details with the relevant authority (KRA, eCitizen, BRS, county government, or other regulator) or speak with a qualified MyBiashara advisor. MyBiashara is not liable for decisions made solely on the basis of this content.
