Register a private limited company (Ltd)
From: Government of Kenya (public information)
Published 2 June 2026 · Last updated 2 June 2026
Find out how to incorporate a private limited company (Ltd) in Kenya. This page covers mandatory shareholder requirements, model articles, KRA PIN linking, and the flat incorporation costs on eCitizen.
Warning This is an independent guide — not a government website. Never share passwords or OTPs with agents. Only pay through official portals. Scams and fake websites
No direct application link is listed yet. Try eCitizen or contact government.
Quick facts
- Processing time
- 3 to 7 working days from submission to generation of your registration files.
- Base cost
- Ksh 10,750 flat fee
- How to apply
- Online (Digital submission)
Fees and times can change. Confirm on the official site before you pay.
Before you start
- All directors must be at least 18 years old.
- A limited company creates a separate legal entity. Shareholders enjoy limited liability, meaning personal assets are legally protected from company debts.
Documents you need
- Three unique proposed corporate names in order of preference.
- Scanned clear color copies of National ID cards or Passports for all directors and shareholders.
- Personal KRA PIN numbers for all local directors (profiles must have updated email addresses).
- Recent passport-sized color photographs of each director and shareholder.
- The precise allocation of shares and nominal capital structure (e.g., 1,000 shares worth Ksh 100 each).
Fees and charges
| Item | Cost |
|---|---|
| Statutory Incorporation Fee (Includes Name Reservation, CR1, CR2, CR8, and Capital Duty) | Ksh 10,700 |
| eCitizen Portal Convenience Charge | Ksh 50 |
Questions
Can one person hold all roles in a private limited company?
Yes. Under Kenyan corporate law, a single individual can legally incorporate a company as the sole shareholder and the sole director, without needing a separate company secretary.
Do I get a separate corporate KRA PIN automatically?
Yes, the eCitizen BRS portal is linked directly to the KRA system. Upon successful incorporation, your company KRA PIN is generated automatically alongside your Certificate of Incorporation.