Kenya is a country located in East Africa and is known for its diverse economy and growing entrepreneurial spirit. If you’re looking to start a business in Kenya, there are a few steps you need to follow to register your business legally. In this article, we will outline the process of registering a business in Kenya.
Table of Contents
Step 1: Choose a Business Structure
The first step in registering your business is choosing the type of business structure that suits your needs. In Kenya, there are four main types of business structures that you can choose from:
Sole Proprietorship
Partnership
Limited Liability Company (LLC)
Public Limited Company (PLC)
Each business structure has its own advantages and disadvantages, so it is important to understand each type before making a decision.
A sole proprietorship is the easiest and least expensive business structure to set up. It is a business owned and operated by one person. A partnership is a business owned and operated by two or more people. A limited liability company (LLC) is a separate legal entity that offers limited liability protection to its owners. A public limited company (PLC) is a company whose shares are publicly traded on the stock exchange.
Step 2: Choose a Business Name
After choosing the business structure, the next step is to choose a name for your business. The name you choose must be unique and not already registered by another business. You can check the availability of your chosen name through the Companies Registry, which is part of the Attorney General’s office.
Step 3: Register Your Business
Once you have chosen your business structure and name, the next step is to register your business. This involves obtaining a Business Registration Certificate (BRC) from the Registrar of Companies.
To register your business, you will need to fill out the relevant forms and provide the following documents:
A copy of your National ID card or passport if you are a foreigner
A copy of your PIN certificate
A copy of your business name reservation certificate
A completed registration form
The registration process usually takes around two weeks to complete, and the cost varies depending on the type of business structure you have chosen.
Step 4: Obtain Licenses and Permits
After registering your business, you will need to obtain the necessary licenses and permits to operate legally. The licenses and permits you need will depend on the type of business you are running.
For example, if you are opening a restaurant, you will need to obtain a food handler’s permit from the Ministry of Health. If you are opening a manufacturing plant, you will need to obtain a permit from the National Environmental Management Authority (NEMA).
It is important to research and obtain all necessary licenses and permits before starting your business to avoid any legal issues down the line.
Step 5: Open a Bank Account
The final step in registering your business in Kenya is to open a bank account. This will allow you to receive payments from customers, pay employees, and manage your business finances.
To open a bank account, you will need to provide your Business Registration Certificate, your National ID card or passport, and your PIN certificate.
Generis Global Can Help You with Your Business in Kenya
Starting a business in Kenya can be a complex process, but with the right help, it can be much easier. Generis Global is a firm that can help you with the legal part of your business journey in Kenya. We offer a range of services, including business registration, obtaining licenses and permits, and opening a bank account. Contact us today to learn more about how we can help you start and grow your business in Kenya.