How to Register a Business Name in Kenya Step by Step

In this step-by-step tutorial, you will learn how to register a business name online through the updated eCitizen Business Registration Service (BRS) portal. If you encounter problems, just contact us.

Step-by-Step Business Name Registration Guide 

Step 1: Go to the eCitizen portal and click sign in. Use your email address or ID number and your password to login. A One-Time (OTP) code is sent to your registered phone number for security. Type it and login.

In case you do not remember your eCitizen password, click forgot password for a reset option. A code will be sent to your eCitizen registered number. Enter the code and change password. Below is the logged in page.

Step 2: Scroll through the available government services. Locate Business Registration Services (BRS) then click the icon. You will be taken to the official BRS Portal.

Step 3: Click Sign in on top right. The system will request you to login with the eCitizen account earlier logged in.If all details are correct: Click Continue. This verification step helps prevent unauthorized applications.

Step 4: Choose Registration of a Business Name

Choose the company registry service then choose to proceed. It will open a new portal for business registration services. 

Under registration of a business name, choose to apply. To start registry. 

Step 5: Enter Your Proposed Business Names

Provide at least three proposed business names, with your first choice listed first as the preferred name. Choose names that are unique, simple, relevant to your business, and do not contain restricted government terms without approval.

You must also indicate whether the business is affiliated with an existing registered entity. Select No if it is independent and Yes if it is linked to another registered organization. Click next.

Step 6: Fill in the Applicants Information

Enter the applicant’s details, whether you are the business owner or an authorized representative. Provide your role, postal address, postal code, and contact information. Ensure all details match your official documents to avoid delays or rejection. Once completed, click Next 

Step 7: Enter the nature of your business. Select the category that best describes your business, such as retail, wholesale, consulting, IT, or education. If your activity is not listed, choose Other and provide a clear description.

Some regulated industries may require supporting documents, such as approvals or registration certificates. Choose your business activity carefully, as it affects future licensing requirements. Once complete, click Next.

Step 8: Enter the Registered Office Address

Every registered business in Kenya must have a physical address. The registered office address is where official communications can be delivered. You may be asked to provide:County, Sub-county, Town, Building name, Street name, Plot number and Postal address.

Make sure to use accurate information and avoid incomplete addresses.Ensure details match your actual operating location. Most fields marked with an asterisk (*) are mandatory. Double-check spelling and numbering. Wrong details will delay your approval.

Step 9: Add owner/Proprietor Information

Click Add Proprietor and select the appropriate category (e.g., Kenyan Citizen, Foreigner, Local Company, or Other Legal Person). Most sole proprietorship applicants will choose Kenyan Citizen.

Enter the proprietor’s ID number and first name, then click Search. The system will automatically retrieve and populate details such as name, gender, nationality, and KRA PIN. Verify that the information is correct.

Upload a recent passport photo and provide contact details, including phone number, email address, and physical address. Complete all required fields, then click Save to proceed.

Step 10: Download and Sign the BN2 Form

Download the automatically generated BN2 Form and review all details carefully. If everything is correct, sign the form in the appropriate section.

The Statutory Declaration is only required if there are multiple proprietors or a proprietor is unavailable to sign. Sole proprietors should sign only in the standard signature section. Scan the signed form, save it as a PDF, upload it to the portal, and click Next.

Toggle declaration check mark declaring you have provided all information correctly and as required.

Step 11: Submit, Pay, and Track Your Application

If everything is correct, submit the application. The registration fee (about KES 950) can be paid via M-Pesa, card, or online banking. After payment, your application moves to the review stage.

You can track progress on the BRS dashboard under Application History, with statuses such as Draft, Submitted, Under Review, Approved, or Correction Required. Once approved, you will receive a notification via your eCitizen account.

How to Register a Business Name in Kenya (BRS Portal)

1. Step 1: Sign in to eCitizen
2. Step 2: Access Business Registration Services (BRS)
3. Step 3: Confirm Login
4. Step 4: Start Business Name Registration
5. Step 5: Enter Proposed Business Names
6. Step 6: Enter Applicant Information
7. Step 7: Select Business Activity
8. Step 8: Enter Registered Office Address]
9. Step 9: Add Proprietor Information
10. Step 10: Download and Sign BN2 Form
11. Step 11: Submit, Pay, and Track Application

Frequently Asked Questions