Quick Answer
Registration is done online through the Business Registration Service on eCitizen. You search and reserve a name, then register a business name or incorporate a company by filing the required forms and paying the fee — and your certificate is issued digitally.
Key facts
- Registration is online via BRS on eCitizen.
- Start with a name search and reservation.
- A business name is cheaper and faster than a company.
- Your certificate is issued digitally.
Name search and reservation
Log in to eCitizen, open the BRS service, and submit your preferred names (have several ready, as similar names are rejected). The system checks availability and reserves your approved name.
Register a business name
For a sole proprietorship or partnership, complete the business-name application, upload your ID and photo, and pay the fee — commonly around KES 950, often approved within about a day to a week. You then download your certificate from eCitizen.
Fees and timelines change — confirm the current amount on the live eCitizen/BRS invoice.
Incorporate a company
For a limited company, you file the incorporation forms (covering directors, shareholders, share capital, registered office and beneficial ownership) and pay the higher fee. Incorporation typically takes a few business days, after which you receive a Certificate of Incorporation.
Why this matters to you
Registration turns an idea into a recognised business you can bank, contract and grow. Knowing the steps — and that it’s now largely online — lets you do it yourself without overpaying a middleman.
Frequently asked questions
How do I start registration?
Log in to eCitizen, open BRS, and do a name search and reservation.
How much does a business name cost?
Commonly around KES 950 — confirm the current fee on eCitizen.
How long does it take?
A business name can be approved in about a day to a week; a company in a few business days.
Sources & references
- Business Registration Service — brs.go.ke
- eCitizen — ecitizen.go.ke