How to Apply for a KRA PIN in Kenya: Step-by-Step Guide (2025)

Obtaining a **KRA PIN** (Personal Identification Number) is a crucial step for anyone conducting business, earning income, or engaging in legal transactions in Kenya. This guide walks you through the updated process for 2025 — whether you're an individual, company, foreigner, or student. Let’s get you registered quickly and correctly! 🔍

What Is a KRA PIN & Why It Matters

A KRA PIN is a unique alphanumeric identifier issued by the Kenya Revenue Authority for tax and compliance purposes. It is required to:

• File tax returns online (via iTax)
• Register property, vehicles, or transfer title deeds
• Obtain business licenses, open bank accounts, access HELB, and more
• Participate in government tenders or supply contracts
• Ensure compliance in financial and legal operations

Who Needs to Register for a KRA PIN?

You should apply for a PIN if you:

• Are employed or earning income in Kenya
• Operate a business (sole proprietor, partnership, company)
• Plan to buy or transfer property or register land
• Are a foreign investor, expatriate, or non-resident requiring compliance
• Are a student needing HELB or other services requiring a PIN
• Need to engage in legal or financial transactions that require tax compliance

Requirements & Documents Needed

The documents and info you’ll need depend on your status:

For Kenyan Residents (Individuals)

• National ID or Alien ID card (for non-citizens)
• Employer’s KRA PIN (if you are employed)
• Business registration certificate (if self-employed/business owner)

For Foreign Employees / Non-Kenyans Residing in Kenya

• Valid passport (clear copy)
• Work permit or special pass endorsed with employer name
• Letter of introduction from employer
• Employer’s PIN and supporting documents

For Foreign Investors / Non-Residents

• Passport or certified copy
• Introduction letter via a registered tax agent
• Tax Agent’s PIN and valid Tax Compliance Certificate
• Business proof (Certificate of Incorporation, CR12, project proposal) if registering a company

Other Cases (Diplomats, Students, Dependents)

• Diplomatic card, Note Verbale, visa/permit, or exemption status
• Student pass and admission letter
• Marriage certificate (for dependents married to Kenyan citizens)
• Other supporting immigration or permit documentation

Step-by-Step: How to Apply via iTax (Individuals)

Kenya’s KRA now requires PIN registration through the iTax portal. Here’s how to do it:

1. Go to the iTax Portal and select **“New PIN Registration”**.
2. Choose **“Individual”** as your taxpayer type.
3. Select **“Online Form”** as registration mode. (Alternatively, there is an option for “Without Obligation” if you’re registering even with no income yet.)
4. Fill Section A (personal info), Section B (tax obligations), Section C (income sources) accurately.
5. Attach required documents (scanned) as per your status.
6. Submit the form and note the **acknowledgment receipt** with reference number.
7. Wait for verification and approval from KRA.

After approval, you’ll receive your PIN details via email and SMS. You can log in, set a password, and print your PIN certificate from iTax.

How Non-Individual (Business / Company) PIN Registration Works

If you're registering a company, partnership, NGO or similar entity, follow these steps:

1. Visit the iTax Portal and go to **“New PIN Registration.”**
2. Select **“Non-Individual”** and choose “Online Form.”
3. Fill in business details (name, registration number, address), tax obligations, and details of directors/partners.
4. If you have a tax agent, fill agent details; otherwise skip.
5. Upload required documents — business registration certificate, IDs of directors, etc.
6. Submit application, and get an acknowledgment receipt to track progress.
7. Once approved, you can log in, obtain the certificate, and begin compliance.

Foreigners / Non-Residents: Special Considerations

Foreign applicants follow largely the same iTax steps but must ensure:

• All documents (passport, permits) are valid and correctly endorsed
• Introduction / support from employer or tax agent is clear and valid
• You select the correct taxpayer category (often “Alien” or “Non-Resident”) when prompted
• You fully upload or submit supporting documents to avoid rejections

The process may take slightly longer due to additional verification checks.

Tips for a Smooth PIN Application ✅

• Use a **stable internet connection** and modern browser.
• Ensure scanned documents are **clear, legible, and in accepted formats** (PDF, JPEG).
• Cross-check data (names, DOB, IDs) before submission to avoid rejections.
• Track your application using the acknowledgment reference.
• If rejected, carefully review feedback, correct errors, and resubmit promptly.
• Seek assistance from a tax professional or agent if complex status (foreign investor, diplomatic) applies.

Common Issues & Troubleshooting

• Rejection due to unclear documents: Rescan and ensure clarity.
• Mismatch in names or DOB: Use exactly as appearing in your ID or passport.
• Delay in approval: Wait 1–2 business days; follow up via KRA support if overdue.
• Forgot to upload a required document: Use “resubmit” or appealing within iTax.
• Login issues post-approval: Reset your password using the “Forgot Password” link.

After You Get Your KRA PIN

Once your PIN is active:

• Log into iTax and confirm your profile is complete (add obligations if missing)
• Download and securely store your PIN Certificate
• Begin filing returns (e.g. IT1) when due
• Use the PIN in relevant transactions (bank, land registration, business setup)

SEO & Compliance Best Practices

To strengthen your submission and ranking:

• Link to **official sources** like the Kenya Revenue Authority or iTax portal using **descriptive anchor text**.
• Limit to **1–3 external links** to high authority domains to boost page trust.
• Set external links to **open in new tabs** to keep users on your page.
• Write naturally — avoid “click here,” use clear, descriptive calls (e.g. “visit the iTax portal to register”).
• Maintain up-to-date information — KRA occasionally updates procedures or form layouts.

Conclusion

Applying for a KRA PIN in Kenya is straightforward — as long as you understand your status, gather the right documents, and follow the iTax process carefully. Whether you’re an individual, a business entity, or a foreign investor, you now have a clear roadmap. ✅

Enjoy seamless access to banking, licenses, property, and tax compliance with your new PIN! 🎯