Kenya has significantly streamlined its company registration process, making it easier for both local and foreign entrepreneurs to establish businesses. This guide walks you through the online process, from start to finish.
Step-by-Step Guide to Company Registration in Kenya
Step 1: Create an eCitizen Account:
Visit the eCitizen portal: https://ecitizen.go.ke/
Register a free account using your email address, Kenyan ID, or passport number. If you already have an eCitizen account, this is perfect, simply login to your account using your credentials. You can also authorise another person or entity to do this process on your behalf.
Step 2: Access the Business Registration Service:
Log in to your eCitizen account.
Navigate to the “Business Registration Service” section on the eCitizen platform.
Step 3: Choose Your Business Type:
Select the appropriate business structure from the options:
- Private Limited Company
- Public Limited Company
- Company Limited by Guarantee
- Limited Liability Partnership
- Foreign Company Registration
Step 4: Provide Company Details:
Provide the following details in the online application form. They are a step by step details and you will be prompted accordingly.
Company Name: Suggest at least 3 names in order of preference.
Articles of Association: Adopt the general articles or create custom ones.
Nature of Business: Specify the primary and secondary activities.
Registered Address: Provide a physical address and postal address.
Step 5: Share Capital and Structure:
Share Capital: Determine the minimum share capital (KSH 100,000) and share structure.
Shareholders and Directors: Provide details of all shareholders and directors, including ID numbers, addresses, and passport photos. These details are contained in a form which needs to be downloaded, signed by the respective directors and then uploaded to the eCitizen platform after completion you shall be prompted to proceed.
Step 6: Beneficial Ownership Information:
Disclose any individual holding 10% or more of the shares or voting rights, directly or indirectly.
Step 7: Upload Required Documents:
Upload all the required documents for this registration process. Scanned copies of ID cards, passports, and other relevant documents.
Step 8: Pay the Registration Fee:
Pay the prescribed fee online using various payment methods.
Check out the Company registration fees by Clicking Here
Step 9: Submit Your Application:
Review all the information and submit your application.
Summary of the Requirements for Registering a Company
The requirements for registering a company in Kenya include the following;
- At least 3 Company Names
- Business Objectives
- National Id Card Copy / Travel Passport copy of all the Directors, Shareholders and Beneficial Owners.
- Passport-size photos of all the Directors, Shareholders and Beneficial Owners.
- Physical Addresses, phone numbers, email addresses, and occupations of all Directors, Shareholders and Beneficial Owners.
