Business Registration Guide in Kenya

1. Use the official portal

Kenya's Business Registration Service (BRS) provides business registration services through the eCitizen system.

Official website: brs.ecitizen.go.ke

2. Understand the common business types

Business name / sole proprietorship

Often suitable for an individual operating a small business under a registered business name. A business name is not a separate limited-liability company.

Partnership

May suit two or more people carrying on a business together. Understand the partners' legal responsibilities before applying.

Private limited company

May suit a business that needs a company structure. It has additional registration and ongoing compliance obligations.

Choose the structure that matches your circumstances. If liability, ownership or tax treatment is unclear, seek advice from a qualified professional before registering.

3. Prepare before applying

• An active eCitizen account and access to the official BRS service.
• Your preferred business or company name, where name selection is required.
• Accurate identification and contact details for the applicant and relevant owners or directors.
• The proposed business activity and address information requested by the portal.
• Any additional details or documents required for the business type you select.
• A payment method accepted by the official portal.

Requirements differ by registration type. Follow the checklist displayed for your specific application.

4. General application steps

1. Open the official BRS eCitizen portal.
2. Sign in to your eCitizen account or follow the official account-creation process.
3. Open the relevant business registration service.
4. Select the appropriate registration type and provide the requested details.
5. Review names, identification details, ownership information and contact details carefully.
6. Submit the application and pay using the instructions shown on the official portal.
7. Save the application reference and payment confirmation.
8. Check the application status and download the official registration documents when they become available.

5. After registration

• Keep your official registration documents and payment receipts safe.
• Check whether your business needs a county business permit or other sector-specific licences.
• Check applicable KRA tax registration and filing obligations.
• Maintain accurate business records and meet any ongoing filing requirements that apply to your business structure.
• Use official government channels to confirm current obligations.

6. Common mistakes to avoid

• Entering names or identification details incorrectly.
• Selecting a business structure without understanding its responsibilities.
• Paying through unofficial agents or personal numbers not specified by the official portal.
• Assuming registration automatically provides every permit or licence needed to operate.
• Sharing your eCitizen password, one-time PIN or payment PIN with another person.

Need help with the online process?

ETG TV can help you understand the steps and prepare information for your application. You should personally review the details before submission and keep control of your account and payment PIN.