Streamline Your Business Launch in Kenya

Our comprehensive online company registration packages in Kenya offer the fastest, most reliable path to formally launch your business. Navigating the legal requirements of the Companies Act, 2015, the Business Registration Service (BRS) portal, and the eCitizen platform can be a complex and time-consuming task. A single error in documentation can lead to significant delays. At Mwenda Njagi & Co. Advocates, we eliminate the guesswork. Our team of corporate law experts manages the entire process for you, from name reservation to the final issuance of your Certificate of Incorporation. We ensure every step is handled with meticulous attention to detail, guaranteeing a seamless, compliant, and efficient registration, allowing you to focus on what matters most: building your new enterprise in Kenya.

Kenya's Company Registration Legal Framework: Companies Act, 2015 & BRS

The legal foundation for incorporating a company in Kenya is the Companies Act, 2015. This modern legislation replaced the old Companies Act (Cap 486), introducing a more streamlined and simplified process managed by the Business Registration Service (BRS). The BRS is a state corporation responsible for overseeing all business registrations in the country, and its services are primarily accessed online through the eCitizen portal.

Under this framework, key incorporation documents must be meticulously prepared. These include the Memorandum of Association and the Articles of Association, which outline the company's objectives and internal governance rules. The application process involves submitting several statutory forms, most notably:
Form CR1: The application for registration of a company, containing details of the proposed directors.Form CR2: The memorandum for a company with share capital.Form CR8: The notice of the registered residential address of the directors.
Compliance with these regulations, as enforced by the Registrar of Companies through the BRS, is not optional. A registered office located in Kenya, for example in a commercial hub like Nairobi, is mandatory. Our legal team, well-versed in the nuances of the Companies Act, 2015, ensures all your documentation is perfectly aligned with these stringent legal requirements.

The process of online company registration in Kenya, showing the required documents like KRA PIN and passport.
We guide you through every step, from name reservation on the BRS portal to post-registration compliance like KRA PIN application.

The Step-by-Step Procedure for Company Registration in Kenya

To successfully register your company online, a specific procedure must be followed with precision. Our online company registration packages are designed to manage each of these stages on your behalf, ensuring full compliance and efficiency. Here is the standard procedure:

1. Company Name Search & Reservation: The first step is to conduct a name search on the BRS portal to ensure your proposed company name is unique and available. Once confirmed, the name is reserved for a period, typically 30 days, pending registration.

2. Preparation of Incorporation Documents: This is the most critical phase. We draft the company's Memorandum and Articles of Association and complete all necessary forms, including CR1, CR2, and CR8. We also collate required documentation from you, such as director KRA PINs, National ID/Passport copies, and passport-sized photos.

3. Filing & Payment of Fees: All prepared documents are uploaded to the eCitizen portal, and the prescribed government registration fees are paid.

4. Verification and Approval: A registrar at the BRS reviews the application. If all documents are in order, they approve the registration and issue a digital Certificate of Incorporation.

5. Post-Registration Compliance: After incorporation, your company must be registered with the Kenya Revenue Authority (KRA) for a company PIN, as well as with the National Social Security Fund (NSSF) and the National Hospital Insurance Fund (NHIF). Our service ensures these crucial final steps are completed promptly.

Legal Representation in Kenya

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

Our Company Registration Packages & Government Fees (KES)

A professional lawyer from Mwenda Njagi & Co. Advocates assisting a client with documents for their online company registration packages in Kenya.

Understanding the cost of company registration is crucial for any new business owner in Kenya. The total cost is a combination of statutory government fees and professional service fees. Our online company registration packages are structured to be transparent and all-inclusive, protecting you from unexpected expenses.

The primary government fees include: Name Reservation Fee: A nominal fee, typically around KES 150 per name search.Company Registration Fee: For a standard Private Limited Company, the registration fee is KES 10,000. These fees are paid directly to the government via the eCitizen portal.

Our professional packages at Mwenda Njagi & Co. Advocates cover these government fees plus our expert legal services. This includes drafting all legal documents, meticulous filing, and dedicated follow-up with the BRS. More importantly, our packages include essential post-registration support, such as obtaining your company's KRA PIN, which is vital for opening a bank account and conducting business. Contact us for a clear quote tailored to your specific needs.

Frequently Asked Questions

How long does it take to register a company online in Kenya?
The online company registration process in Kenya can be completed in 5-10 business days, provided all documentation is correct. This timeline includes name reservation, document preparation, and final approval from the Business Registration Service (BRS). Delays often occur due to system issues on the eCitizen portal or incorrect submissions. Using a professional service helps expedite this by ensuring accuracy from the start.
What documents are required to register a private limited company in Kenya?
You will need a few proposed company names, copies of National ID/Passport for all directors and shareholders, and their KRA PIN certificates (for residents). You will also need recent, passport-sized photos and the contact details (email, phone) for each director and shareholder. Finally, you must provide the company's proposed physical address in Kenya. Our packages include a checklist to help you gather these requirements seamlessly.
Can a foreigner register a company in Kenya?
Yes, foreigners can register and own 100% of a company in Kenya. However, they will need to meet specific requirements, such as obtaining an Alien ID card and a KRA PIN for tax purposes. At Mwenda Njagi & Co. Advocates, we provide comprehensive guidance for foreign nationals, including advisory on director requirements and ensuring full compliance with Kenya's immigration and company laws for a smooth registration process.