Liquor License Requirements in Kenya, Licencing Body & Contacts
Summary of Requirements
- Business registration certificate
- KRA PIN and Tax Compliance Certificate
- National ID copies of directors
- Lease agreement or title deed
- Public health clearance
- Fire safety certificate
- NACADA application clearance
- Payment of licensing fees
- GPS coordinates of premises
Key Contacts
- NACADA: NSSF Building, Block A, 18th Floor, P.O. Box 10774-00100
- Phone: +254 020 2721997/93
- Email: [email protected] / [email protected]
- County Licensing Office: Contact your county
- Ministry of Trade: +254 20-2731531
What is a Liquor License?
A liquor license authorizes businesses to manufacture, distribute, sell, or serve alcoholic beverages within Kenya. Different license categories exist for brewers, wholesalers, and retailers based on business operations. The National Authority for Campaign Against Alcohol and Drug Abuse regulates alcoholic drinks alongside county governments ensuring responsible alcohol trade and consumption.
Three main license types accommodate various business models. Brewer licenses authorize large companies to produce alcoholic beverages. Wholesale licenses permit businesses to purchase from manufacturers and supply to retailers. Retail licenses allow establishments including bars, restaurants, and wine shops to sell directly to consumers. Each category has distinct requirements and fee structures.
NACADA oversees national alcohol control policies while county governments issue operational licenses. From October 2025, import and export licenses for alcoholic beverages are processed through the Kenya National Electronic Single Window System managed by KenTrade. This integration streamlines international trade compliance for alcohol products.
License eligibility requires registered businesses with valid KRA PIN certificates demonstrating tax compliance. Company directors must provide certified copies of national identification or passports. Foreign nationals need resident permits, work permits, and foreign certificates for directors and shareholders. Non-resident persons require investor permits from Kenya Investment Authority.
Business premises must meet specific standards for alcohol retail or service. Locations cannot be near schools, hospitals, churches, or other sensitive institutions. County bylaws specify minimum distances from protected areas. Zoning compliance verification confirms premises are appropriate for liquor business operations.
Application begins online through NACADA's e-citizen portal at nacada.ecitizen.go.ke. Create accounts and complete application forms selecting appropriate license categories. Attach Certificate of Incorporation or Business Name registration, directors' identification documents, KRA PIN, and tax compliance certificates. Provide GPS coordinates of business premises for verification purposes.
Include product profile lists detailing brands, expected annual volumes, alcohol content, country of origin, and harmonized tariff classification numbers. For renewals, attach copies of previous licenses. Submit applications with required documents for Licensing Committee consideration. Processing includes application review, premises inspection, and background checks on applicants.
County licensing officers visit business premises conducting suitability assessments. Inspectors verify locations meet physical requirements for liquor business operations. Fire safety certificates demonstrate adequate safety equipment and emergency exits. Public health clearances confirm premises meet sanitation standards for food and beverage service where applicable.
Application fees vary by license type and county. Retail licenses in Nairobi cost approximately KES 26,500 annually for wine and spirits businesses. Manufacturing and wholesale licenses attract higher fees. Late renewal applications incur penalties calculated as monthly percentages of standard fees. Maintain current licenses to avoid business interruption and legal penalties.
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