Procedure for registration of a Company in Kenya

Registration of a company in Kenya is currently done online on E-CITIZEN. This is the procedure of registration of a company in Kenya and applies both to local and foreign companies.

Step 1: Conduct a Name Search

The first step in registering a company in Kenya is conducting a name search to ensure the chosen name is available. This process can be done through the Registrar of Companies in Kenya’s online platform. It is crucial to select a unique name that does not infringe on existing trademarks or intellectual property rights. You will need to provide at least 3 unique names for the search. Worth to note that the name search is done simultaneously with the registration of the company as one process.

Step 2: Incorporation documents

After conducting a name search, you need to reserve the company name by submitting an application to the Registrar of Companies in Kenya. The application includes your company’s proposed name, objectives, and registered office address. This process will culminate by preparing forms CR 1, CR 2, CR 6, and CR 8. These forms will be required if you need to open an account as they are the company’s constitutive documents. Please note that we can provide the registered office address in Kenya.

Step 3: Articles of Association

Please note that you can now adopt Model Articles of Association or submit your own Articles of Association. Model Articles of Association are contained in the Companies Act.

Step 4: File the Incorporation Documents

Once incorporation documents are prepared and signed, the next step is filing the incorporation documents with the Registrar of Companies in Kenya. If the documents are in order, the Registrar of Companies in Kenya will issue a Certificate of Incorporation. This is the final step.

Step 5: Obtain Licenses and Permits

Depending on your business’s nature, you may need additional licenses and permits to operate legally. Examples include business licenses, trade licenses, and permits from regulatory bodies such as the Kenya Revenue Authority and the National Environment Management Authority depending on the type of business you will be carrying out. We can help you in obtaining licenses and permits.

Step 6: Register for Taxation

All companies in Kenya are required to register for taxation with the Kenya Revenue Authority (KRA). Registering for taxation involves obtaining a Personal Identification Number (PIN) and registering for Value Added Tax (VAT) if your company’s turnover exceeds the threshold set by the KRA.

Step 7: Open a Bank Account

Opening a bank account for your company is essential for financial transactions such as receiving payments from customers, paying suppliers, and paying taxes.

Conclusion

We can help you register your company, and obtain relevant permits and licenses in Kenya. Please contact us on info@swkadvocates.com