Step Description Key Link/Form
1 Log into BRS v2 portal via eCitizen brsv2.ecitizen.go.ke ​
2 Select business, Maintain Company > Make Application > Cessation to Convert BRS Dashboard ​
3 Choose company type (Private/Public Ltd), upload signed DN-6 form Form DN-6 ​
4 Pay cessation fee, get approval & Cessation Certificate KShs. 950+ (varies) ​
5 Start conversion: Reserve name (3-5 options), fill company details Name reservation merged ​
6 Add directors/shareholders, upload docs (ID, photos, MOA), BOF 1 Forms CR1/CR2/CR8 ​
7 Pay registration fee, submit for review KShs. 10,750+ ​
8 Download Certificate of Incorporation ​ BRS Downloads ​

Converting a business name (sole proprietorship or partnership) to a limited company in Kenya provides limited liability, easier funding access, and credibility for growth. This process via the Business Registration Service (BRS) eCitizen portal typically takes 3-7 days.

Why Convert Your Business?

Sole proprietorships expose owners to unlimited personal liability for debts. Limited companies shield personal assets while enabling share issuance for investors. Banks prefer dealing with incorporated entities, and government tenders often require company status. In Kenya's competitive market, this upgrade signals professionalism—essential for Nairobi repair services scaling operations.

The Companies Act 2015 mandates at least one director/shareholder (Kenyan resident preferred) and a physical address. Beneficial ownership disclosure (BOF 1 form) is compulsory for anti-money laundering compliance.

Prerequisites Before Starting

Gather these documents digitally:

  • Business Name Certificate (original)

  • Directors/shareholders: National ID/Passport, KRA PIN (iTax registered), passport photos, proof of address

  • Signed DN-6 (Notice of Cessation to Convert)

  • Memorandum & Articles of Association (use templates or lawyer-drafted)

  • Share structure details (nominal capital minimum KShs. 100)

Ensure your eCitizen account links to the business name. Directors must be 18+; foreigners need work permits.

Detailed Step-by-Step Process

Step 1-2: Initiate Cessation

Access https://brsv2.ecitizen.go.ke/, select BRS v2 > View your business > Maintain Company > Make Application > "Cessation to Convert." Pick private or public limited company type. Save, upload signed DN-6 form (notarized if partnership), confirm details, and pay (approx. KShs. 950-2,000).

Approval generates a Cessation Certificate, closing the business name legally.​

Step 3-5: Company Registration

Post-cessation, a "Start Conversion" option appears. Propose 3-5 company names (e.g., "Nairobi Repair Services Ltd"). BRS reviews instantly—merged with registration since 2024.​

Fill details:

  • Company type, address, nature of business

  • Directors/shareholders (min. 1 each, up to 50)

  • Share capital (e.g., 1,000 shares at KShs. 100)

  • Beneficial owners (>10% shares/votes)

Upload auto-generated forms: CR1 (Application), CR2 (MOA/AOA), CR8 (Directors' consent), Statement of Nominal Capital, BOF 1 (signed).

Step 6-7: Submit & Pay

Verify info, sign uploads, pay via M-Pesa (KShs. 10,750 for standard private ltd; scales with capital). Submit for review—SMS notifications for corrections.​

Costs Breakdown

Item Fee (KShs.)
Cessation Application 950
Name Reservation Included
Private Ltd Registration (up to KShs. 100K capital) 10,750
Stamps/Legal Fees (optional lawyer) 5,000-20,000
CR12 Official Search 650 ​
Total (Basic) ~12,350

Fees updated 2024; check BRS for 2026 rates.​

Post-Conversion Requirements

  • Obtain CR12 (company search) for bank accounts​

  • Register for taxes (KRA iTax PIN already linked)

  • File annual returns (KShs. 2,000+ yearly)​

  • Open corporate bank account

  • Update licenses (county single business permit ~KShs. 20,000/year)

Notify clients/suppliers of the change to maintain continuity.​

Common Challenges & Solutions

Delays often stem from name rejections (too similar) or incomplete BOF 1. Use distinct names like adding "Ltd" or location. Partnerships need all partners' consent on DN-6. If stuck, BRS helpline: 011 112 7000 or support@brs.go.ke.​

Hire advocates for complex structures (KShs. 20,000-50,000). Foreign ownership? Ensure 30% local shares for some sectors.​

Benefits for Appliance Repair Businesses

In Nairobi's service economy, company status unlocks contracts with hotels, NHIF, and exporters. Limited liability protects against repair lawsuits. Easier to hire, scale, and attract venture capital. Many repair firms convert at KShs. 1M+ turnover milestone.​

Final Tips

Backup all uploads; track via eCitizen dashboard. Conversion preserves goodwill—no asset transfer needed. Start early—weekend approvals rare. For personalized help, consult BRS or lawyers like those at Junyan & Associates.

This upgrade future-proofs your business legally and competitively.

› More Article