Registering a new business name on eCitizen costs KES 950 plus a KES 50 convenience fee, totaling KES 1,000, with processing typically taking 1 day upon approval.
Prerequisites Before Registration
Complete a name search first (KES 150 per name, 1-3 days) to secure an approved name from prior steps. Ensure you have an active eCitizen account at https://accounts.ecitizen.go.ke and your national ID or passport ready. Prepare business details like nature of trade and proprietor information.
Step-by-Step Registration Process
Access https://brsv2.ecitizen.go.ke and log in via app QR, ID, or email.
-
Select Service: Go to “Business Registration Service (BRS)” > “Make Application” > “Registration of a Business Name” > “Apply”.
-
Fill Form BN/2: Enter the approved name, your details as proprietor (name, ID, KRA PIN, address, email), and business description.
-
Upload Documents: Attach ID copy, approved name search notice, and passport photo if required.
-
Review Application: Preview all fields, confirm accuracy, then submit to generate payment invoice.
-
Make Payment: Pay KES 950 + KES 50 via M-Pesa (BRS till), card, or bank—confirmation appears instantly.
-
Track Progress: Monitor under “My Applications”; approval notification arrives via email/portal within 1 day.
-
Download Certificate: Once approved, access “Downloads” section for the Certificate of Registration PDF—valid nationwide.
Fee Breakdown
Post-Registration Steps
Link the business to your eCitizen profile under “My Businesses” for renewals. Obtain a KRA PIN via iTax and county single business permit (KES 5,000-30,000 annually based on location/turnover). Display the certificate at your premises for compliance.
Common Pitfalls to Avoid
Expired name reservations (30 days) require re-search. Incomplete BN/2 forms trigger rejections—double-check proprietor details. Non-M-Pesa users should test payments first. For amendments later, file BN/4 (KES 800 + penalties).
Annual returns filing starts post-registration to maintain good standing. Visit https://brs.go.ke for latest FAQs or call 011 112 7000 support. This process formalizes sole proprietorships efficiently for Nairobi entrepreneurs.