How to Register a Business Online In Kenya In 2024
Registering a business online in Kenya is easier than before. The paperwork has been reduced significantly. Thanks to the eCitizen platform which has over 8000 services to choose from.
In 2023 alone, eCitizen hit Ksh 900 million in revenue collection. It’s an all-in-one government service where you’re guaranteed a fast and accurate service.
Registering a Business Online In Kenya
To register a business in Kenya in 2024, it will only take about 7 days and you will have a business certificate. The whole procedure is done online for maximum efficiency.
Here are some documents you’ll need to register a business in Kenya.
- ECitizen login credentials
- KRA Pin
- A National ID
- Passport photo
- A business name
- Another KRA pin if it’s a partnership
Apart from the documents, you also need the following:
- A computer or a laptop
- Stable internet
- A working phone number
Step By Step on How to Register a Business Online In Kenya In 2024
Once you have all the documents in order, head over to the eCitizen portal
- Enter your ID number or email address
- Enter your password
- You will receive a code to your registered number
- Enter the code
- Log in
- At the dashboard, scroll to the sixth option which is business registration services
- Click Continue
- BRS undertook a phased changeover on 4th December 2023 and the system was enhanced/transferred.
- Find the new site here
- Click on login and continue
- Click on companies’ registry services
- Click “Apply” on business name registration
- Enter three proposed names (click No on the affiliation to another entity)
- Click next to move to the Applicant detail section
- Select your capacity from the dropdown menu (Proprietor, advocate, or secretary)
- Select proprietor
- Enter your address (eg 39 State Road or P.o box 1234)
- Enter the postal code (depending on the town in Kenya)
- Click next to move to the nature of business
- Select the nature of business from the options in the dropdown menu
- Select other if you can’t see your business nature from the list
- Attach relevant documents
- Click next to move to the office address section
- Enter your primary address starting with county, district, and locality
- Enter the plot number followed by the nearest street road
- Enter the floor number and room number
- Enter your postal address and code
- Enter your mobile number (starting with +254) and company email address
- Enter any other relevant address
- Click next to move to ownership information
- Click add proprietor
- Choose ID type from the dropdown menu (Citizen, foreign)
- Enter the National ID number followed by the first name on the ID
- Click search
- The names, date of birth, and KRA pin of the proprietor will be displayed
- Attach your passport photo (2MB maximum)
- Enter your contact details and physical details
- Click save and move next to application documents
- Download the BN-2 form, confirm the details, sign and scan it
- Upload the scanned BN-2 form
- Click next to move to the final stage of the declaration
- Confirm the declaration and click preview
- Click edit to make corrections if there are any.
- Click complete when satisfied everything is correct
- You will be redirected to the payment tab
- Choose your payment option (Mpesa, Airtel money, Visa, etc.)
- Pay Ksh 950
Your name will be reserved for 30 days only
During the 30-day window, you can apply for a Private limited company for Ksh 13,750
Conclusion
That’s all on how to register a business online in Kenya in 2024. The process is not easy or short. You will have to exercise patience and wait as your details are verified.
One thing with the eCitizen platform is that your information is protected and the processes are efficient.
If you need help in any of the processes call +254 11 112 7000 or visit their offices at 316 UpperHill Chambers, 17th floor.
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)
How much does it cost to register an online business in Kenya?
To register a business in Kenya, you will have to pay Ksh 950 to reserve the business name and Ksh 13,750 to register a private limited company.
How do I register my business name online in Kenya?
To register and reserve a business name, Login into the eCitizen platform, enter a unique name, and reserve it for a period of 30 days only.
How long does it take to get a business registration certificate?
The process takes 5 to 7 business days and it’s all done online.
What happens after name reservation on eCitizen?
After the name reservation, you will have 30 days to apply for a limited company. After 30 days elapse, your reserved name can be taken and reserved by another person.