The information found in this article is the basics of how to register a Business Name in Kenya. A Business Name is the simplest form of business that an entrepreneur can operate.
The Business Name is not a legal entity. It simply refers to a person who owns the business and is personally responsible for its debts. Once you register a business name in Kenya, you will be issued a business registration certificate.
This certificate will be required in many areas when you are conducting day-to-day business. The process of registering a Limited Company is a bit different.
What You Need to Register a Business Name in Kenya
- Your ID number.
- An eCitizen account.
- A passport photo.
- Three or up to five proposed business names.
- The person(s) registering the business name must specify the nature of the business in one line e.g Stationary, Food Stuff, Hardware.
- The applicant must indicate the physical address of the business that is; plot number, Road and Town.
- Indicate the postal code, address and town to be used by the business.
- Indicate the proprietor(s) details: the name(s) should be in full as per the ID Number and all details must be filled in.
- Download the system-generated form, sign and re-upload it. All partners/proprietors must sign on the downloaded form.
- Registration fees amounting to Kshs. 950.
How to Register a Business Name in Kenya
- Log into your eCitizen account. You can learn how to create an eCitizen account here.
- Locate and click on the Business Registration Service link.
- Next to my applications option, click on make application.
- Click on the Business Name Registration link and proceed by clicking on the ‘Apply Now button.
- On the next page select the business type and enter your preferred business name. Describe the name you are searching although this is not a must.
- Fill in the rest of the information as specified below.
Proposed Names
Provide your proposed business names. The names should be provided in order of PRIORITY and the first three are mandatory. The first available name will automatically be assigned to the business. Click on save and continue.
Nature of Business
Select if you are the proprietor or lawyer of the business. Enter your address and postal code. Select the nature of the business. If you cannot find it among the list provided, select others. Note that relevant documents will be required for special cases for instance if you are starting a clinic. Normal business for sale or supply will not require any document.
Registered Address
In this section enter the primary address and building where the business is located. Provide as much information as you can. If you skip some crucial information, the business name will not be approved. You will be requested to make the necessary adjustments.
Ownership Information
Click on add proprietor to enter the required information. Type the ID number and the first name then click on verify. Fill in the rest of the information and also remember to upload your passport photo.
Click on submit to continue. If you are in partnership, after entering the first proprietor, click on the ‘Add Proprietor’ button to add the other partner. Once through, click on the save and continue button.
Application Documents
In this stage, download the BN 2 form and print it. After printing, sign and scan it before uploading it. Click on the submit and review option. Check if your application is okay and click on finish to make payment. Choose your payment method and pay Kenya shillings 850.
Final Part on How to Register a Business Name in Kenya
After following the above procedure to register a business name in Kenya, you wait for 2 to 3 days for the registration to be approved. If some details are not okay, you will be asked to amend them.
Click on the View button and click on download the business registration certificate.
In case your business is no longer in operation, remember to officially deregister the business.
