A Guide to Register a Business in Kenya on eCitizen

If you’re planning to register a business in Kenya on eCitizen, the good news is—it’s now faster, cheaper, and entirely digital. Thanks to the Business Registration Service (BRS) integrated into the eCitizen portal, you can complete your business registration from anywhere.

In this 2025 guide, we’ll walk you through each step to register a sole proprietorship, partnership, or limited company in Kenya—without visiting a government office.

Why Register Your Business on eCitizen?

• It’s the official platform by the Government of Kenya.
• Registration is now centralized under the Business Registration Service.
• It reduces paperwork and streamlines access to licenses, permits, and tax registration.

What You Need Before You Begin

Before you begin the registration process, make sure you have:

• A valid eCitizen account (Sign up here)
• Copy of your ID and KRA PIN certificate
• Business name ideas (3-5 options)
• Passport photo (for companies and partnerships)
• Capital details (for limited companies)

Step-by-Step: How to Register a Business in Kenya on eCitizen

Step 1: Create or Log in to Your eCitizen Account

Visit eCitizen and log in. If you don’t have an account, register using your ID number and email address.

Step 2: Access Business Registration Services

Click on the “Business Registration Service” tab on the eCitizen dashboard.

Step 3: Conduct a Name Search

1. Select “Name Search (Reservation)”.
2. Enter your preferred business names (up to 5 options).
3. Pay the reservation fee (KSh 150 per name).
4. Wait for name approval (typically within 1-2 working days).

Tip: Avoid generic names like “Best Supplies” or “Kenya Traders”.

Step 4: Start the Registration Process

Once your name is approved:

• Select “Business Name Registration” for a sole proprietorship or partnership.
• Choose “Company Registration” for a limited company.

Fill in the required forms with business details such as:

• Business name and location
• Owner(s) details (ID, KRA PIN)
• Nature of business
• Shareholding (for companies)

Step 5: Upload Required Documents

Attach scanned copies of:

• National ID or passport
• Passport photo
• KRA PIN
• CR1, CR2, and CR8 forms (for limited companies)

Step 6: Pay the Registration Fee

Fees vary depending on business type:

• Sole Proprietorship: KSh 950
• Limited Company: KSh 10,650
• Partnership: KSh 2,000

Payments can be made via M-Pesa, card, or bank transfer through the eCitizen platform.

Step 7: Download Your Certificate of Registration

After payment and review (usually 1–3 working days), download your Certificate of Registration or Certificate of Incorporation from your eCitizen account.

What’s Next After Registration?

Once you’ve successfully registered your business:

• Apply for a business permit via the Single Business Permit Portal
• Register for a KRA PIN for your business
• Open a business bank account
• Consider applying for a Tax Compliance Certificate

Benefits of Registering Online on eCitizen

• Time-saving
• Secure and official
• Accepted by all banks and agencies
• Can be used to apply for tenders, business loans, and trade licenses

The process to register a business in Kenya on eCitizen is simple, fast, and secure. Whether you’re starting a small shop or an online venture, legal registration boosts your credibility and unlocks financial opportunities.

Luvisia Digital offers affordable assistance with KRA PINs, permits, compliance, and business registration. Contact us today to get started!