How to Register a Company in Kenya in 2026: The Complete Guide

Overview

Registering a company in Kenya has become significantly faster with the Business Registration Service (BRS) online portal. In 2026, you can incorporate a private limited company in as little as 3–5 working days. Here's everything you need to know.

Types of Business Entities in Kenya

Before registering, choose the right structure:

• Private Limited Company (Ltd) — Most common for SMEs and startups. Separate legal entity, limited liability.
• Sole Proprietorship — Simplest form. Owner personally liable for all debts.
• Partnership — Two or more people sharing profits and liabilities.
• Limited Liability Partnership (LLP) — Combines partnership flexibility with limited liability.

Step-by-Step: Registering a Private Limited Company

Step 1: Name Search and Reservation

Log into the eCitizen portal (ecitizen.go.ke) and search for your preferred company name. You can reserve up to 3 name options. Name reservation costs KSh 150 and is valid for 30 days.

Step 2: Prepare Required Documents

• Memorandum and Articles of Association (professionally drafted)
• Statement of nominal capital
• Particulars of directors and shareholders (Form CR1)
• Registered office details (Form CR8)
• National ID or passport copies for all directors and shareholders
• KRA PIN certificates for all directors

Step 3: Online Application via eCitizen

Submit all documents through the BRS portal on eCitizen. Pay the registration fee (approximately KSh 10,650 for a company with share capital up to KSh 100,000).

Step 4: Certificate of Incorporation

Once approved, you receive your Certificate of Incorporation digitally. This is your official proof that the company legally exists.

Step 5: Post-Registration Requirements

• Apply for KRA PIN for the company
• Register for VAT (if annual turnover exceeds KSh 5M)
• Open a business bank account
• Register with NHIF and NSSF (for companies with employees)
• Obtain relevant sector licenses

Common Mistakes to Avoid

Using generic company names that get rejected, submitting incomplete director details, and failing to draft proper Articles of Association are the top reasons applications are delayed or rejected. Working with a lawyer ensures your first submission is complete and compliant.

How Much Does It Cost?

Government fees range from KSh 10,000 to KSh 15,000 depending on share capital. Professional legal fees for company registration start from KSh 8,000 at Joy Lubanga & Co Advocates, inclusive of document preparation and filing.