Your Step-by-Step Guide to Company Registration in Kenya

Embarking on the journey to register a new company in Kenya is an exciting step towards entrepreneurship. The process, while detailed, is manageable with the right guidance. Mwenda Njagi & Co. Advocates demystifies this procedure, offering expert support to ensure your business is legally established and compliant from day one. We streamline the complexities of registration with the Registrar of Companies, guiding you through each necessary step for a successful launch.

Understanding the Core Requirements for Registration

Before commencing the formal registration, several prerequisites must be met. This includes selecting a unique company name, which can be reserved through the Business Registration Service (BRS) portal to ensure it's not already in use. You will need to appoint at least one director, who must be at least 18 years old, and identify at least one shareholder. The company's registered office must be in Kenya, and details of its business activities need to be clearly defined. Understanding these foundational elements, governed by the Companies Act, 2015, is crucial for a smooth registration process with the Companies Registry.

process to register a new company in Kenya
Mwenda Njagi & Co. Advocates

Key Steps in the Company Registration Process

The official process to register a new company in Kenya involves several distinct stages. Firstly, conduct a name search and reservation via the BRS online portal. Secondly, prepare and file the Memorandum and Articles of Association (MEMART), outlining the company's objectives and internal rules. Thirdly, complete the application forms for incorporation and submit them along with required identification documents for directors and shareholders, proof of registered office, and the MEMART. Upon successful review by the Registrar of Companies, a Certificate of Incorporation will be issued. Finally, you will need to obtain a Kenya Revenue Authority (KRA) PIN for tax purposes and any necessary business permits from the local county government, such as the Nairobi County Government.

Legal Representation in Kenya

Mwenda Njagi & Co. Advocates provides legal advisory and court representation across Kenya and all 47 counties in Kenya.

Associated Costs and Timeline for Registration

Process to register a new company in Kenya

The costs associated with registering a new company in Kenya are generally modest. The official filing fees for incorporation typically range from KES 8,200 to KES 13,000, depending on the share capital. A name reservation fee is usually around KES 150. Additional costs may arise for professional services, such as legal fees for drafting documents or assistance with the online portal. The entire registration process, from name reservation to receiving the Certificate of Incorporation, can take approximately 7 to 14 business days if all documentation is accurate and complete. Mwenda Njagi & Co. Advocates provides transparent pricing for its registration services.

Frequently Asked Questions

What is the first step in the process to register a new company in Kenya?
The very first step is to conduct a business name search and reserve your chosen company name through the Business Registration Service (BRS) portal. This ensures your name is unique and available for registration under the Companies Act, 2015.
How long does it typically take to register a company in Kenya?
Typically, the process takes between 7 to 14 business days from the submission of all correctly completed documentation to the Registrar of Companies. Factors like thoroughness of submitted documents and efficiency of the BRS can influence this timeline.
Yes, absolutely. Once your company is registered, Mwenda Njagi & Co. Advocates can seamlessly guide you through obtaining the essential Kenya Revenue Authority (KRA) PIN, which is crucial for tax compliance and conducting business operations in Kenya.