How to Register a Business Name in Kenya Online

Starting a business in Kenya today is easier than ever, and the first step is learning how to register a business name in Kenya online. Most business people still believe that registration is a laborious, expensive process for big businesses alone, but those days are over.

With the help of online platforms, particularly eCitizen business name registration, you are now able to accomplish the process in your home using only your phone and ID. Each year, thousands of hustlers and micro-enterprise owners legitimize their businesses by registering business names in Kenya, but many more do so without legal status.

Business registration not only protects your name but also provides you with access to such opportunities as tenders, business bank accounts, and customer trust. Your official business registration certificate Kenya can be downloaded within a matter of a few days from the application and begin conducting your business with credibility.

Having that in mind, this tutorial will guide you through the entire process step by step and illustrate it simply so that any Kenyan — whether opening a mitumba stand, an online business, or a consultancy firm — can grasp and register easily.

Why Registering Your Business Name in Kenya Matters

Most Kenyans start enterprises without registering them, especially small hustles like kiosks, salons, online shops, or mitumba outlets. Though that might look easier, it has several demerits. Registration of a business name creates a significant difference for the following reasons:

Legal Recognition: As soon as your business is registered, your business is legally recognized by the Kenyan government. That is to say, you don’t have to fear being shut down by government agencies like county authorities who may demand your registration proof.

Access to Contracts and Tenders: In case you ever want to supply goods or services to government institutions, schools, or big companies, they will ask for your business registration certificate Kenya. Otherwise, you miss out on such chances.

Opening a Business Account: None of the Kenyan banks, whether Equity, KCB, or Co-op, will open a business account without showing registration proof. Keeping your business distinct from your personal finances also makes it easier to apply for loans in the future.

Credibility with Customers: Imagine walking into a shop and seeing the business registration certificate displayed on the wall. It immediately makes the customer trust you that much more as they can tell that you are legally identified.

Keeping Your Business Name Safe: Once you complete ecitizen business name registration, no one else can use your name. This prevents confusion and protects your brand identity.

M-Pesa Business Till Number: After registering your business name in Kenya, you can get an M-Pesa till number. It makes it easy for customers and other businesses to pay you cash directly and you can withdraw or spend the money any time. You can also use the till to make payments to suppliers, reducing bank trips.

What are the Requirements to Register a Business Name in Kenya?

To complete business name registration in Kenya, you’ll need the following:

At least 2–3 proposed business names for approval
An active eCitizen account
A copy of your National ID (for each owner)
KRA PIN certificate of the owner(s)
Passport-size photo(s) of the proprietor(s)
Basic business details – nature of the business, proposed location, physical address, phone number, and email address

Also Read – Easy Guide: How to Register your POS Business with CAC Nigeria Online in 2025

How to Register a Business Name in Kenya Online

The process of online business name registration in Kenya is straightforward. You only need to follow the steps below on the business registration system.

Step 1: Choose a Unique Business Name

Business name matters because it’s how people identify your brand. Choose one that is pronounceable, distinctive, and not convoluted. It must be indicative of what you’re offering and not too similar to rivals so you don’t confuse. Do not use your own name or abbreviation that adds no value. Choose a scalable name to fit future expansion, and verify its legal availability as well as online for brand protection.

Step 2: Log in to the eCitizen Portal

Once you have your name ready, you will have to register it on the eCitizen portal. Log in to the eCitizen portal. If you do not have an account, you will have to create one by registering and following the instructions on the screen.

how to register a business name in kenya

Step 3: Select “Business Registration Service”

When you enter your login details, you’ll be taken to where all the business registration problems in Kenya are solved.

Click on the “HERE” link.

Click “Proceed” on the Company Registry Services Option

Click Make Application or scroll down and click Apply on the Business Registration Option

Fill in your business names to be proposed and the business name to be proposed’s address & ownership information. This is the business name you chose for your business.
Fill in your address and details.
Verify your application & Pay For the Filing Fee.

Step 4: Download your certificate of incorporation

Once your business registration has been completed, you will be notified of your registered e-mail address. Log into your eCitizen account to check the status of your business.

You will receive a certificate of incorporation, indicating that your company is legally registered with the name you have provided. It also has details of the date of registration.

Keep this certificate of incorporation safe. It is your proof that your company is registered.

You will be using this certificate for all your official business activities like signing a contract, opening a bank account for business, raising finance, securing tenders, etc.

What to Do After Registering a Business in Kenya

Registering your business name is only the first step. To operate smoothly and legally in Kenya, here are key compliance measures to consider:

1. Register for a KRA PIN

After getting your certificate, apply for a Kenya Revenue Authority (KRA) PIN. This is needed to file taxes, apply for licenses, send invoices, open a business bank account, and even bid for government tenders.

2. Open a Business Bank Account

It is best to keep your personal money away from business money. Most banks will ask for your ID, business registration certificate, and KRA PIN. A business account makes accounting easier and makes you more credible.

3. Obtain Necessary Licenses and Permits

You may need additional approvals based on your sector. For example, food businesses may need health and safety certificates, trade permits from the county government, or environmental permits for some sectors.

4. Set Up a Payment Solution

Today’s customers prefer cashless payments. Apply for an M-Pesa Business Till Number or similar digital payment service through Safaricom, your bank, or providers like Kopokopo. You’ll need your business registration documents, KRA PIN, and proof of ID.

5. Establish an Accounting System

Accounting properly helps in the management of expenses, tracking of cash flows, and budgeting for growth. You can do accounting using software like Zoho Books or contract a professional accountant.

6. Register employees with NSSF and SHIF (if you have any)

You’re an employer, therefore, you’ll need to register employees with the National Social Security Fund (NSSF) and the Social Health Insurance Fund (SHIF) so that you follow labor laws.

7. Branding and Marketing

Make your business look professional. Design a logo, create a basic website, and keep it consistent everywhere. Social media marketing can be a great means of reaching Kenyan customers and increasing your sales.

8. Protect Your Business Name

Register a domain name for your site (short, easy to spell).
Register social media accounts in your business name.
Make a Google Business Profile to enhance your online presence.
Consider trademarking your company name and logo for further legal protection, especially if your brand name is unique.

Also Read – Top 17 Online Business that Pays Daily With Free Registration in Nigeria

How Much Does It Cost To Register A Business Name In Kenya?

The registration fee of a business in Kenya will depend on the type of business that you wish to register. It will cost you between KES. 950 to KES. 25,000.

If you are registering a business name, you will be charged KES 950. Below is the amount you will pay in registering a business name in Kenya:

Registration of Business name – KES 950
Private Limited Company – KES 10,650
Public Limited Company – KES 10,650
Unlimited Companies – KES 20,050
Company Limited by guarantee – KES 10,000
Limited Liability Partnership- KES 25,000

Frequently Asked Questions

Can I register my business name in Kenya without a KRA PIN?

No. All the owners must have a KRA PIN at the time of registration.

How do I get a business registration certificate in Kenya on approval?

Can foreigners register a business name in Kenya?

Yes. Foreigners are allowed to register using their passport, but with a Kenyan postal address as well as sometimes a work permit.

Can I change my business name in the future?

Yes. You can apply for an amendment on the eCitizen platform.

Conclusion

Registering a business name in Kenya has never been easier. Since the introduction of eCitizen business name registration, business individuals no longer have to queue at Sheria House for days.

You just need a connection to the internet and a minimal fee, and your business registration certificate Kenya will be with you within one week.

If you have been planning to go into business, wait no more. The earlier you register, the earlier you secure your business name and build credibility.

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References

creativekigen.com – How to Register a Business Name in Kenya, 8 Step Guide for 2025
afrisetup.com – Business Registration in Kenya: Step-by-Step Process