Two crucial aspects of checking whether a company is registered in Kenya are its legal recognition and credibility. A registered company enjoys legal protection and can operate confidently under Kenyan law.
Investors and clients feel safer dealing with registered companies because they are protected from liabilities and risks. But do you know how to check if a company is registered in Kenya?
The Kenyan government has made it easy for anyone to verify a company’s registration details online. Whether you want information about a small business or a large corporate entity, the process takes only a few minutes.
The most reliable way to check is through the eCitizen portal. You will need a small fee and a valid eCitizen account. This step-by-step guide shows you exactly how to get the details you need.
Step-by-step guide to check company registration in Kenya
When checking if a company is registered in Kenya, the goal is to obtain a CR 12 form. This form is issued by the Registrar of Companies and includes key information about the company, such as directors, shareholders, registered office, and any charges against it.
How to access company details on eCitizen
Follow these steps to access company information:
- Go to the eCitizen login page.
- Sign in using your email, ID number, and password. You can also use Digital ID through the eCitizen app.
- If using Digital ID:
- Click to reveal the QR code on your desktop.
- Open the eCitizen app and tap the QR icon.
- Scan the QR code to log in.
- Click Business Registration Service and select Make Application.
- Locate Official Search (Third Party Application) in the services list. A pop-up will show the fee. Click Apply Now.
- Enter the company name or registration number.
- If the company exists, click its name, then select Next.
- Enter your postal address and code, then click Continue.
- Verify the information and click Finish.
- Select a payment method and pay the required fee.
After payment, eCitizen will display the CR 12 form containing:
- Company directors and shareholders
- Shareholding percentages
- Registered office address
- Debenture details
- Any charges registered against the company
Cost of verifying a company
Checking a company’s registration on eCitizen is affordable. The cost includes:
| Service | Fee (KES) | Notes |
|---|---|---|
| CR 12 form | 600 | Includes full company details |
| Convenience fee | 50 | For eCitizen portal access |
| Total | 650 | Full verification cost |
How to search a company name online
You can also check a company name before registration using the eCitizen platform:
- Log into your eCitizen account.
- Click Office of the Attorney General and Department of Justice.
- Select Make Application, then Name Search – Company/Business.
- Read the instructions and click Apply Now.
- Choose the business entity type.
- Enter the business name and a short description.
- Review your details and submit.
- Pay the search fee to complete the application.
The Registrar of Companies usually responds within one day. If the name is unavailable, you can register a different one.
How to register a business name online
If the name is available, you can proceed with registration:
- Log in to your eCitizen account.
- Click Business Registration Service, then Make Application.
- Select Business Name Registration and click Apply Now.
- Enter business details including name, address, and ownership information.
- Review the information and submit.
- Pay the filing fee.
- Once payment is confirmed, click Complete.
The cost of registering a business name is KES 950. Other registration costs include:
| Business type | Fee (KES) |
|---|---|
| Private/Public company | 10,650 |
| Limited liability partnership | 25,000 |
| Unlimited company | 20,500 |
| Company limited by guarantee | 10,000 |
After registration, the Registrar issues a certificate of registration or incorporation.
Timelines for business registration
The time needed depends on the type of registration and document preparation:
| Process | Duration |
|---|---|
| Business name search | 1 day |
| Name reservation | 30 days |
| Business registration | 3-5 days |
| Limited liability company registration | 1 day |
| Company name change | 1 day |
Fees for changes or appointments vary from KES 550 to KES 25,000 depending on the action.
Conclusion
Knowing how to check if a company is registered in Kenya protects you legally and ensures credibility. The eCitizen portal makes the process fast, easy, and affordable. Within a few steps and a small fee, you can access the CR 12 form or search company names online.
Whether you want to verify an existing business or prepare to register your own, eCitizen is your trusted platform for company registration in Kenya.
