How to Register a Business Name on eCitizen

Why Register Your Business Name?

Registering a business name gives your venture a legal identity. It helps you:

• Operate legally under Kenyan law
• Open a business bank account
• Apply for tenders and licenses
• Build trust with customers
• Access government support for MSMEs

Note: Business name registration is suitable for sole proprietors and small partnerships.

What You Need Before You Begin

• A valid eCitizen account (register at eCitizen.go.ke)
• Your national ID number
• Proposed business names (at least 2 options)
• A valid email address and phone number
• KES 150 – 1,000 for name search and registration fees

Register a Business Name on eCitizen

Step 1: Create or Log In to Your eCitizen Account

• Visit www.ecitizen.go.ke
• Click “Create Account” (Choose “Citizen”) or log in if you already have one
• Use your ID number and email to register

Step 2: Choose Business Registration Service

• Click on “Business Registration Service (BRS)”
• Choose “Make Application” > “Business Name Registration”

Step 3: Perform a Name Search

1. Click “Name Search”
2. Enter up to 3 business name options
3. Choose your business activity (e.g. general supplies, boutique, digital services)
4. Pay the KES 150 name search fee via M-PESA

Wait 1-2 working days for name approval. You will receive an email or SMS update.

Step 4: Register the Approved Name

Once your name is approved:

1. Go back to Business Registration Service
2. Select “Register a Business Name”
3. Enter details:
   • Approved business name
   • Nature of business
   • Physical address
   • Owner’s details (name, ID, phone, email)

Attach scanned copy of your ID (PDF or JPG format)

Step 5: Pay Registration Fee

• Pay KES 850 via eCitizen
• Payment methods include M-PESA, Card, or Airtel Money

Step 6: Download Certificate of Registration

After successful registration, your Business Name Certificate will be available within 1–3 days.

📥 Download your certificate from your eCitizen dashboard under “Business Registration Service > My Applications.”

Important Tips

• Choose a unique business name—avoid names similar to existing brands.
• Ensure all information matches your national ID.
• This registration only covers the business name, not licensing. For full licensing, visit the eRegistry or your county licensing portal.

Useful Government Links

• eCitizen Portal – Business Registration
• Business Registration Service (BRS)
• County Government eRegistry for Licensing

What Happens After Registration?

Once you have your Business Name Certificate, you can:

• Apply for a KRA PIN (if you haven’t already)
• Apply for a Single Business Permit from your county
• Open a business bank account
• Begin operating officially in Kenya

Need help registering your KRA PIN or business permit? Luvisia Digital can assist you →

Registering your business name is the first step toward turning your idea into a real enterprise. With the eCitizen platform, the entire process is now digital, fast, and affordable.

At Luvisia Digital, we help entrepreneurs like you avoid errors and delays—so you can focus on growing your business.

Need Help?

Luvisia Digital offers full support for:

• Name search & registration
• KRA PIN application
• Business permit assistance
• County licensing guidance

📞 Click here to get help now