Company Registration Service Costs in Kenya

Cost Summary Table

Starting a business in Kenya requires navigating the company registration process, and understanding the associated costs is crucial for budgeting and financial planning. The Kenya Business Registration Service (BRS), operating under the Attorney General's office, has streamlined the registration process, but entrepreneurs should be aware of various fees involved.

Government Registration Fees

The primary cost for company registration in Kenya is the official government fee. For a private limited company, which is the most common business structure for small to medium enterprises, the registration fee stands at KES 10,200. This fee covers the incorporation of your company and the issuance of a Certificate of Incorporation. The process begins with a name search and reservation, which costs between KES 100 and KES 200, ensuring your desired company name is unique and available for use.

Additionally, entrepreneurs must file the CR12 form, which declares beneficial ownership information. This mandatory requirement costs approximately KES 1,000 and is part of Kenya's compliance with international standards on transparency and anti-money laundering regulations. Stamp duty charges, which apply to the company's share capital, typically range from KES 1,000 to KES 2,000 for most small businesses.

Professional Service Fees

While it's possible to register a company independently through the eCitizen portal, many entrepreneurs opt to engage professional services such as lawyers, accountants, or business consultants. These professionals charge service fees that vary significantly based on the complexity of your business structure, location, and the firm's reputation. Generally, professional service fees range from KES 15,000 to KES 50,000.

These professionals handle the entire registration process, including preparing memorandum and articles of association, filing necessary documents, and ensuring compliance with all legal requirements. For first-time entrepreneurs or those with complex business structures, this investment can save considerable time and prevent costly mistakes.

Additional Costs to Consider

Beyond the basic registration fees, business owners should budget for other essential requirements. A company seal, though not mandatory, is recommended for official documentation and costs between KES 2,000 and KES 5,000. Opening a corporate bank account may require minimum deposits ranging from KES 0 to KES 100,000, depending on the financial institution.

Business owners must also consider the cost of obtaining necessary licenses and permits specific to their industry. A general business permit from county governments typically costs between KES 5,000 and KES 30,000 annually, varying by business type and location. Some sectors require additional specialized licenses, which come with their own fee structures.

Time and Payment Considerations

The company registration process in Kenya has become increasingly efficient, with most registrations completed within three to seven working days when all documents are in order. Payment for government fees is made through the eCitizen platform, which accepts various payment methods including mobile money, bank transfers, and credit cards.

Registering a company in Kenya requires an initial investment of approximately KES 27,300 to KES 63,400 when including government fees and professional services. While this may seem substantial, proper company registration provides legal protection, enhances credibility, and opens doors to formal financing and business opportunities. Entrepreneurs should carefully evaluate whether to handle registration independently or engage professionals, considering their experience, available time, and business complexity. With Kenya's improved digital infrastructure and streamlined processes, establishing a legitimate business entity has never been more accessible, making it an opportune time for entrepreneurs to formalize their ventures.