Business Registration Fees in Kenya

By Maina Susan – Corporate Compliance Writer and Legal Researcher
Author

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.

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Introduction - Understanding Business Registration Fees in Kenya (2026)

If you’re planning to start a business in Kenya in 2026, knowing the official Business Registration Service (BRS) charges will save you time, money, and frustration.

Whether you’re launching a sole proprietorship, partnership, or limited company, all business registration applications are now processed online through the eCitizen platform.

Payments can be made via M-PESA, debit card, or credit card — making it faster and more convenient than ever.

In this guide, prepared by M&A Registrars, we break down the 2026 BRS official fee schedule for business name registration, company incorporation, name changes, and official searches, with clear timelines so you can plan your launch confidently.

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Key Takeaway - BRS Charges Made Simpler in 2026

Previously, you had to pay separately for a name search and then for business name registration.

In 2026, the BRS has merged these into one step, saving you money and cutting processing time down to just one day.

What is BRS? - The Agency Behind Business Registration in Kenya

The Business Registration Service (BRS) is a Kenyan government agency under the Office of the Attorney General and Department of Justice. 

It’s responsible for registering and maintaining records of businesses, companies, partnerships, and other legal entities in Kenya. 


BRS operates the eCitizen platform, where most registration and compliance services are processed online.

2026 BRS Fee Schedule – Business Registration Fees in Kenya

Service Offered Official Fees (Ksh) Document Issued Processing Time
Business Name Registration
950
Certificate of Registration
1 day
Limited Liability Partnership (LLP) Registration
25,000
Certificate of Incorporation
1 day
Private Limited Company Registration
10,650
Certificate of Incorporation
3 – 5 days
Foreign Company Registration
7,550
Certificate of Compliance
3 -5 days
Public Limited Company Registration
10,650
Certificate of Incorporation
3 -5 days
Unlimited Company Registration
20,050
Certificate of Incorporation
3 – 5 days
Company Limited by Guarantee
10,000
Certificate of Incorporation
3 days (after NIS vetting)
Change of Name – Business Name
800
Certificate of Change of Name
1 day
Change of Name – Company
4,000
Certificate of Change of Name
1 day
Change of Name – LLP
2,000
Certificate of Change of Name
1 day
Official Search (Companies)
650
CR 12
Instant (verified) / 3–5 days (non-verified)
Official Search (Business Names)
250
CR 13
Instant (verified) / 3–5 days (non-verified)

*Processing times depend on correct document submission and payment confirmation.

*This information has been sourced from BRS official services page

Key Notes on the 2026 BRS Charges for Entrepreneurs

  1. One Simple Payment – Forget juggling fees. Business name search and registration are now combined into a single KSh 950 payment.
  2. 100% Online Process – No queues, no paperwork. Submit your application on eCitizen from anywhere in Kenya — whether you’re in Nairobi, Nakuru, or Nyeri.
  3. Secure & Flexible Payments – Settle your fee with M-PESA, debit card, or credit card — whatever works best for you.
  4. Heads-Up on Extra Costs – The KSh 950 covers name search and registration only. County business permits and sector-specific licenses will be billed separately.

 

Want to skip the Hassle?

M&A Registrars can handle your business registration from start to finish — fast, accurate, and fully compliant with 2026 BRS requirements.

Book a Free Consultation with M&A Registrars TodayWhatsApp

Why Knowing BRS Charges in 2026 Matters for Entrepreneurs

Knowing the exact BRS registration costs in Kenya means you can:

  • Budget accurately for your startup.
  • Avoid being overcharged by brokers or unofficial agents.
  • Plan timelines based on realistic processing times.

 

FAQs – Registering a Business Name in Kenya in 2026

1. Can my business name be rejected?

Yes, if it’s too similar to another registered name, contains restricted words, or is offensive.

2. Which platform should I use – BRS or eCitizen?

They are linked — all BRS services are accessed through your eCitizen account.

3. Can I register my business name without an agent?

Yes, but many beginners hire agents like M&A Registrars to avoid delays and errors.

4. Do I need a lawyer to register a business name?

Not for sole proprietorships or partnerships. For companies, legal guidance can be helpful.

5.How long does business name registration take?

Business name registration with the Business Registration Service (BRS) typically takes about 1 business day once all requirements are met. 

Full company registration, however, usually takes 3–7 business days depending on the completeness of your application and approval timelines.

Let M&A Registrars Handle the Process for You

Avoid guesswork, errors, and delays.

Contact M&A Registrars today and let us handle your application from start to finish — fast, accurate, and stress-free.

Conclusion

The 2026 BRS registration fees in Kenya make it cheaper and faster to start a business. With online applications, transparent pricing, and the merger of name search and registration into one step, launching your business has never been easier.

Would you like us to assist you:

Registering your Company in Kenya?

Click the WhatsApp button to book your free consultation with M&A Registrars now.

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Disclaimer

This guide is for general informational purposes only. Always confirm the latest fees and requirements on eCitizen or with the Business Registration Service (BRS) before applying.

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