How To Register A Limited Company In Kenya.

If you are looking to start a business in Kenya, you may be considering registering a limited company.

This type of business structure offers several advantages, including limited liability for shareholders, perpetual succession, and the ability to raise capital from investors.

To register a limited company in Kenya, you will need to follow these steps:

Table of Contents

Step 1:

Company Name Search and Reservation The first step in registering a limited company in Kenya is conducting a name search and reservation.

This can be done manually by visiting the Huduma Center or online through the eCitizen platform.

Choose a unique and suitable name for your company, ensuring it complies with the Companies Act.

Once you find an available name, reserve it by completing the relevant forms and paying the required fee.

Step 2:

Preparation of Company Documents After the name reservation, prepare the necessary company documents.

These include the Memorandum and Articles of Association, Form CR1 (Company Registration Form), and Form CR2 (Notice of Situation of Registered Office).

The Memorandum and Articles of Association outline the company’s objectives, capital structure, and regulations governing its operations.

Step 3:

Manual Procedure: Submission of Documents For the manual registration procedure, submit the completed company documents to the Registrar of Companies at the Attorney General’s Chambers or any Huduma Center.

Ensure all required forms are duly signed and witnessed, and attach the necessary supporting documents such as copies of identification documents, a statement of nominal capital, and proof of payment for registration fees.

Step 4:

Online Procedure: eCitizen Registration To register a limited company online, visit the eCitizen platform (www.ecitizen.go.ke) and create an account if you haven’t already.

Fill in the required details, upload the scanned copies of the company documents, and make the necessary payments for registration fees online.

Step 5:

Payment of Registration Fees Regardless of the registration method chosen, payment of registration fees is a crucial step.

The fee amount varies depending on the nominal capital of the company. Ensure the correct amount is paid, and keep the payment receipt as proof.

Step 6:

Certificate of Incorporation and Compliance Upon successful submission of the registration documents and payment of fees, you will receive a Certificate of Incorporation.

This certificate serves as legal proof that your company is now registered and recognized by the Kenyan government.

Additionally, obtain other relevant compliance documents such as a Personal Identification Number (PIN) and a Tax Compliance Certificate (TCC) from the Kenya Revenue Authority (KRA).

There are several benefits to registering a limited company in Kenya.

These include:

Limited liability. If your company is sued, your personal assets are protected from creditors. This is because shareholders are only liable for the amount of their investment in the company.
Perpetual succession. A limited company continues to exist even if one or more shareholders die or sell their shares.
Ability to raise capital. Limited companies can raise capital from investors by selling shares. This can be a valuable source of funding for growing businesses.

If you are considering starting a business in Kenya, registering a limited company is a good option.

This type of business structure offers several advantages that can help you succeed in business.