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Starting a business in Kenya is now more streamlined, thanks to the government’s online platforms. This guide will walk you through the essential steps to register your company in Kenya, ensuring compliance with the Companies Act, 2015.
1. Prepare Essential Documentation
Before you register a company in Kenya , gather the following documents:
- Personal Identification Documents: National ID or passport for all directors and shareholders.
- KRA PIN Certificate: Mandatory for all Kenyan directors and shareholders.
- Passport-Sized Photographs: Recent colored photos for each director and shareholder.
2. Create an eCitizen Account
The eCitizen portal is the gateway to various government services, including registering a company in Kenya.
- Sign Up: Visit the eCitizen website and register using your National ID or a valid email address.accounts.ecitizen.go.ke
- Profile Completion: Upload the required personal information and a clear passport-sized photograph.
- Access Business Registration Service (BRS): Once logged in, navigate to the Business Registration Service section to begin the company registration process.
3. Choose and Reserve a Company Name
Selecting a unique company name is crucial.
- Propose Names: Prepare at least three potential names for your company.Business Registration Service
- Name Search: Conduct a name availability search through the BRS to ensure your chosen names are not already in use.
- Reservation: Upon approval, reserve the affirming name. Note that the name reservation and business registration processes have been merged into a single step.
4. Complete Registration Forms
Accurate completion of the necessary forms is vital.
- Form CR1: Company Registration Form detailing company particulars.
- Form CR2: Memorandum of a company with share capital.
- Form CR8: Notice of Residential Address of Directors.
- Form BN6: Statement of Nominal Capital.
Ensure all forms are duly signed by the respective directors and shareholders.
5. Draft Company Constitution
Your company’s constitution comprises
- Memorandum of Association: Outlines the company’s objectives and scope.
- Articles of Association: Defines the internal regulations and governance structures.
These documents can be tailored to your company’s needs or adopt the model articles provided under the Companies Act.
6. Pay Required Fees and Duties
The registration process involves certain fees:
- Name Search and Reservation Fee: KES 150.
- Registration Fee: KES 10,650 for a private company.
Payments are made electronically via the eCitizen platform using mobile money, credit, or debit cards. Business Registration Service+1Business Registration Service+1
7. Submit Registration Documents
Compile all completed forms and supporting documents:
- Submission: Upload the documents through the eCitizen portal.
- Monitoring: Regularly check your eCitizen account for status updates and any additional requirements.
8. Obtain Certificate of Incorporation
Upon successful review:
- Issuance: The Registrar will issue a Certificate of Incorporation.
- Download: Access and download the certificate from your eCitizen account.
The entire process typically takes 2-3 weeks, depending on the workload at the Registrar’s office.
Post-Registration Steps
After incorporation:
- Open a Corporate Bank Account: Present the Certificate of Incorporation and company KRA PIN to a bank of your choice.
- Deposit Share Capital: Fund the account with the proposed share capital as declared during registration.Business Registration Service+9Healy Consultants+9Business Registration Service+9
- Commence Business Operations: With all legal formalities completed, you can now start your business activities in Kenya.
Additional Service (Optional)
If you need assistance with the application process, please contact us at 0115690990 (name: Elijah Khamala). We will help you register a company in Kenya. Here’s what you need to do:
- Charges: Payments are made after the registration process.
- Send Details: Share the following details via WhatsApp to the same number:
- Full Name
- Phone Number
- Email Address
- Password for your eCitizen account
For more details, Contact Us
By following these steps diligently, you ensure your company’s compliance with Kenyan laws, setting a solid foundation for successful operations.
