How to Register a Limited Company in Kenya

Why Register a Limited Company?

A limited company is a legal business entity separate from its owners. It protects your personal assets, gives you credibility, and allows you to scale professionally.

Benefits include:

• Limited liability
• Easier to raise capital
• Suitable for tenders and contracts
• Can own property and enter into legal agreements
• Can have one or more directors/shareholders

Requirements to Register a Limited Company in Kenya

You’ll need:

• At least one director (can also be a shareholder)
• A company name (must be unique)
• Directors’ and shareholders’ national ID or passport, PINs, and contact details
• Physical and postal address of the business
• A valid eCitizen account

Optional (but recommended):

• Memorandum & Articles of Association (default templates provided on eCitizen)

Registering a Limited Company via eCitizen

Step 1: Create or Log into Your eCitizen Account

• Go to eCitizen.go.ke
• Use your ID number and email to create or log into your account
• Navigate to Business Registration Service (BRS)

Step 2: Name Reservation (KES 150)

• Click “Make Application” > “Name Reservation”
• Submit 2–3 name options
• Pay KES 150 via M-PESA or card
• Approval takes 1–2 working days
• You’ll be notified by SMS or email

 Approved name is reserved for 30 days

Step 3: Apply to Register a Company (KES 10,650)

After name approval:

1. Go to “Register a Company” on eCitizen
2. Fill in:
   • Company name
   • Nature of business
   • Director/shareholder details (name, ID, KRA PIN, email, phone)
   • Share capital (minimum KES 100,000 recommended)
3. Upload required documents (ID, PIN certificates)

Default Memorandum & Articles of Association are available if you don’t have your own.

Total cost:

• Name reservation: KES 150
• Registration fee: KES 10,000
• Stamp duty & processing: KES 650
• Total: KES 10,800

Step 4: Download Certificate of Incorporation

Your Certificate of Incorporation will be ready within 3–5 working days and available for download on your eCitizen dashboard.

Helpful Government Links

• eCitizen Business Registration
• Business Registration Service (BRS)
• Kenya Revenue Authority (KRA) PIN Registration
• Business Licensing Portal

What to Do After Incorporation

1. Apply for a KRA PIN for the company → Apply on iTax
2. Open a company bank account
3. Get a business permit from your county → Business Licensing Portal
4. Register for NSSF, NHIF & PAYE (if you have employees)

Consider consulting a lawyer or tax advisor for compliance support.

Should You Register a Limited Company or Business Name?

Final Thoughts

Starting a company doesn’t have to be complicated. Thanks to eCitizen, the entire process can be completed online in a few days.

By registering a limited company, you protect your personal finances, enhance your business credibility, and prepare for growth. Luvisia Digital is here to guide you every step of the way.

Need Help with Company Registration?

Luvisia Digital offers full support to help you:

• Reserve your business name.
• Register your limited company.
• Apply for KRA PIN and licenses.
• Save time, avoid rejections, and focus on building your business.

 Contact us for assistance