Susan Maina is a Corporate Compliance Writer and Legal Researcher at M&A Registrars, a leading company secretarial and legal advisory firm. She specializes in developing clear, insightful content on Company Law, Corporate Governance, Regulatory Compliance, and Business Registration Services.
LinkedIn >>Thinking of starting a business in Kenya in 2026?
You’re in the right place! One of the very first legal steps is registering your business name – and it’s now easier than ever.
Thanks to the upgraded BRS V2 system, the entire process is faster, fully digital, and done online via eCitizen.
No legal jargon. No confusion. Just a clear, step-by-step guide brought to you by M&A Registrars – your trusted partner in business registration and compliance.
Whether you’re launching an SME, freelancing, or setting up an NGO, this guide will help you save time, avoid costly mistakes, and start your journey with confidence.
M&A Registrars can guide you step by step to complete your business name registration on eCitizen.
Book a Free Consultation with M&A Registrars TodayWhatsAppTable of Contents
1. Introduction: Why Register Your Business Name?
2. Here’s exactly how the business name registration process in Kenya works in 2026:
3. Key Changes in BRS V2 (Compared to the Old Process)
4. FAQs on Business Name Registration in Kenya (2026)
6. Disclaimer
Business name registration in Kenya gives you legal recognition and credibility. With your certificate in hand, you can:
And with BRS V2, the registration process is now smoother than ever.
Enter your name and email to download instantly:
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Here’s exactly how the business name registration process in Kenya works in 2026:
Step 1: Log in to eCitizen
Go to eCitizen. If you don’t already have an account, you’ll need to create one.
You’ll receive an OTP (One-Time Password) for verification.
Step 2: Navigate to the BRS Page
Once logged in, eCitizen will take you to the Business Registration Service (BRS) page.
Click “Make an Application.”
Step 3: Start a New Application
Select BRS V2 from the available options.
Step 4: Access the Company Registry
Under “Services,” select Registration of a Business Name.
Here, you’ll see a dashboard with all the sections needed to complete your application.
Step 5: Fill in your proposed Business Names
Pro Tip: Pick unique names that clearly represent your business to avoid rejection.
An example of a Rejected Business Name Suggestion
Step 6: Provide Your Personal Details
Fill in your personal information such as:
Did you know? With BRS V2, once your business name is approved, your KRA PIN is auto-generated..
Step 7: Enter your Nature of Business
Step 8: Add your Registered Office Address
Provide:
Step 9: Input your Ownership Information
As the proprietor, include:
Step 10: Upload the necessary Application Documents
The system will generate a BN Form (Business Name Form).
Review, confirm, and submit. Remember – once submitted, changes cannot be made.
Step 11: Make Payment
(Check out our Detailed Business Registration Fees Guide as of 2026)
Step 12: Wait for Approval
Processing typically takes 7 business days.
Once approved, you’ll receive a Business Name Registration Certificate in your eCitizen account.
The Business Registration Service (BRS) Version 2 brings several improvements to streamline and simplify business registration in Kenya. Here’s what’s new:
| Feature | Old Process (Pre-BRS V2) | New Process (BRS V2 - 2025) |
|---|---|---|
|
Registration Flow
|
Separate steps for name reservation and business registration
|
Integrated process – name reservation and business registration happen seamlessly in one workflow
|
|
KRA PIN Generation
|
Had to apply separately through the KRA iTax portal after business registration
|
KRA PIN is automatically generated during registration – no need for a separate iTax application
|
|
Application Tracking
|
Limited visibility; had to rely on emails or follow-ups
|
Real-time tracking via digital dashboard on eCitizen
|
|
Document Handling
|
Manual uploads and sometimes in-person follow-ups
|
Fully digital submission of documents – fewer delays and no need for physical presence
|
|
User Experience
|
Slower and more bureaucratic
|
Streamlined, faster, and user-friendly process with simplified steps
|
|
Integration with Other Agencies
|
Limited or manual coordination with KRA, NSSF, NHIF
|
Improved back-end integration with key agencies – reducing redundant submissions
|
M&A Registrars can help you review your details, prepare the required information and documents, and submit your application through Ecitizen.
Book a Free Consultation with M&A Registrars TodayWhatsAppQ1. How long does business name registration in Kenya take?
Answer:
Typically within 3-5 working days, as long as all your details and documents are correct. With BRS V2, the process is much faster than before.
Tip: Double-check your application to avoid delays.
Q2. How much does it cost to register a business name in Kenya (2026)?
Answer:
The current fee is KES 950, but this may change based on BRS updates.
You can download our free BRS Fees Sheet to see the full and most up-to-date cost breakdown.
Q3. Can my business name application be rejected?
Answer:
Yes. Your application can be rejected if the name is:
Pro tip: Always do a name search before submitting your application.
Q4. What if I make a mistake during the application?
Answer:
Once submitted, you can’t edit the application yourself. You’ll need to request BRS to re-submit or unlock the application for correction.
Best practice: Review everything carefully before clicking submit.
Q5. When can I start using my registered business name?
Answer:
You can start using your business name immediately after approval.
However, if you don’t use the name within 30 days, it will expire and become available to others.
Business name registration in Kenya (BRS V2 – 2026) has never been easier. With eCitizen and BRS V2, you can register in under 7 days — all online, all paperless.
If you want to avoid delays, rejections, or errors, you can work with a professional registrar like M&A Registrars. They’ll handle the paperwork, ensure compliance, and get your certificate ready in record time.
Next Step: Talk to M&A Registrars today and get your business name registered the right way – fast, simple, and stress-free.
Click the WhatsApp button to book your free consultation with M&A Registrars now.
Or email us at info@mnaregistrars.com
WhatsAppThis guide is for general informational purposes only and reflects the business name registration process in Kenya (BRS) process as of 2026. Registration requirements, fees, and timelines may change without prior notice.
Always confirm the latest details on the official eCitizen portal or consult a licensed business registration professional.
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