How to Register a Business Name in Kenya Online (2025 Guide) 🚀

Starting a business in Kenya? One of the first and most important legal steps is registering your business name. Doing it online now is faster, simpler, and mostly paperless—thanks to improvements in the Business Registration Service (BRS V2) and the eCitizen portal. Here’s the latest guide to walk you through every step, avoid pitfalls, and get your certificate smoothly.

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Why Register a Business Name?

• Legal recognition — registering your business name gives it formal status and protects it from being used by someone else.
• Credibility & trust — clients, suppliers, and investors often look for registered entities.
• Banking & finance — most banks require official registration documents to open business accounts.
• Brand protection — reserving and registering stops others from copying your name; you may also check trademarks to avoid infringement.

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Pre-Registration: What You’ll Need

• Valid ID (Kenyan ID or Passport for foreigners).
• KRA PIN (for applicant and any directors/owners).
• Physical address for your business (office/shop/home, as applicable).
• Contact information (email, phone).
• Nature of business (what activity you’ll engage in).
• Alternative names (you’ll need to propose more than one in case first choice is already taken).

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Step-by-Step Guide: Registering Your Business Name Online

1. Login or create an account on eCitizen
   Go to eCitizen, register or sign in. Ensure your profile is verified and you have email & phone access for confirmations.
2. Access the Business Registration Service (BRS V2)
   From the dashboard, select “Business Registration Service” (or “Companies Registry / Registration of Business Names”) under services. BRS V2 is the latest system handling name availability plus registration.
3. Propose and reserve a business name
   - Enter up to three preferred business names. The system checks if name(s) are available.
   - If your first choice is taken, you’ll need to pick one of your backups.
   - The system also checks for similarity to existing names and trademarks to avoid conflicts.
4. Provide details & fill the form
   - Applicant’s full name, ID/Passport, KRA PIN.
   - Business physical address and nature of business (what goods/services you will provide).
   - Ownership/management details if more than one person involved.
   - Upload needed documents (scanned ID, proof of address if required, any industry-certificates if needed).
5. Make payment of fees
   - As of 2025, the registration fee for business name is about KES 950 (fees may change; always check latest via BRS / eCitizen).
   - Payment can be done via mobile money (e.g. M-Pesa) or card as integrated on eCitizen.
   - Keep transaction receipt and screenshot for your records.
6. Submit & await approval
   - After payment and submission, you’ll get a confirmation.
   - Processing often takes a few business days (usually 3-7 days) if everything is in order.
   - If there are issues (e.g. name conflict, missing documents) the system or officials may request corrections.
7. Download your registration certificate
   Once approved, you’ll be able to download the Business Name Registration Certificate via your eCitizen account. Print or save it—they will often ask for it for business bank accounts, government permits, etc.

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Things to Watch Out For / Common Reasons for Rejection

• Name already in use or too similar to another registered business or trademark.
• Offensive, vulgar, or misleading name content.
• Name starting with “Kenya” — reserved for government / state entities.
• Incomplete or wrong applicant details or expired IDs.
• Fees not paid or unconfirmed payment transaction.
• Wrong document formats or poor scans that prevent verification.

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After Registration: Next Steps

• KRA PIN activation: Make sure your business is recognized by Kenya Revenue Authority; often this is automatic, but verify on the KRA portal.
• Open a business bank account: Use the registration certificate, KRA PIN, and other documents required by your bank.
• Obtain business permits and licenses: Depending on your location and type of business, e.g., county permit, trade license, health inspection, etc.
• Trademark & branding: If you’ll be using a logo or brand, consider registering it with the Kenya Industrial Property Institute (KIPI).
• Maintain compliance: Renew any permits, file annual returns if required, keep business records up to date.

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FAQ

How long does registration take?

When all documents are in order, and the proposed name is acceptable, your business name registration can be completed in 3-7 business days under BRS V2.

How much does it cost?

Latest fee is approximately KES 950 for registering a business name. Fees can vary depending on system updates or type of business. Always check current fees on Business Registration Service fee schedule.

Will I automatically get a KRA PIN?

Under BRS V2, the process is much more integrated. In many cases, your business registration triggers KRA PIN issuance or verification. But always double-check your KRA profile to ensure it’s linked or active.

Can a foreigner register a business name in Kenya?

Yes, foreigners can apply but they must use a valid passport, and satisfy other requirements. Some special regulatory/professional bodies may require extra documentation or approvals.

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Useful External Resources

• Business Registration Service (BRS) – Official Kenya Government portal
• eCitizen Portal – Access government services including business registration
• Kenya Revenue Authority – For PIN, taxes, and compliance

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Final Tips for a Smooth Registration

✅ Double check all information before submitting.
✅ Have backups of your proposed names.
✅ Use clear scans/photos of IDs and other documents.
✅ Use reliable internet connection and ensure your email and phone are working.
✅ Save all receipts and copies of submitted forms.

With this, registering a business name online in Kenya need not be daunting. With the improved BRS V2 and eCitizen setup, you can legally start your enterprise quickly. All the best on your entrepreneurial journey! 💼