Introduction

In 2024, KRA collected KES 2.407 trillion, a 11.1% increase from KES 2.166 trillion in 2022/2023. This is mainly due to the improved revenue collection strategies and the widespread adoption of eTIMS. At the heart of this digital transformation is the eTIMS API, which enables seamless integration between business systems and the national tax infrastructure.

Why eTIMS API Integration Matters

For businesses using custom-built ERP systems or third-party software like Point-of-Sale (POS) or eCommerce platforms, eTIMS API integration means real-time tax compliance, automatic transaction reporting and consistent invoice generation. KRA is pushing for full digital compliance so eTIMS integration is not optional – it’s mandatory.

Step-by-Step: Onboarding to the eTIMS Sandbox

Before going live, developers and businesses need to use KRA’s eTIMS sandbox environment to test and validate their API connections.

1. Access the Sandbox Portal

https://etims-sbx.kra.go.ke

2. Sign Up



  • Click Sign Up.

  • Select PIN.



  • Enter your company’s KRA PIN.

  • Verify the masked phone number (used for OTP). If it’s incorrect, email timsupport@kra.go.ke to update it.

  • Set and confirm your sandbox portal password.

3. Register for OSCU or VSCU

  • After successful login, click eTIMS.

  • Register an Online Sales Control Unit (OSCU) or Virtual Sales Control Unit (VSCU) device.

4. Complete Service Request Form



  • Fill the form and submit your request.

5. Wait for KRA Approval



Once approved, you’ll receive credentials to authenticate your system with KRA’s eTIMS production or sandbox environment.

Integration Tools: KRA eTIMS Node.js SDK

To make API integration easier, developers can use the official KRA eTIMS SDK developed in Node.js by Shadrack Matata. Available on GitHub and npm, this SDK simplifies development by handling common tasks like request validation and logging.

SDK Features:

  • Full eTIMS API coverage for sales submissions and invoice tracking

  • Built-in Express.js server mode

  • CORS support and domain whitelisting

  • Extensive error handling and system-level logging

  • Supports TypeScript for robust, scalable projects

  • Environment-based configurations for dev, staging and production

This SDK allows integration with internal systems—whether you’re running a custom ERP or customizing off-the-shelf tools.

eTIMS Plugin for WordPress and WooCommerce

For online retailers using WooCommerce, a WordPress plugin is available to integrate with KRA’s Electronic Tax Register (ETR) system. This plugin automates tax reporting directly from your WooCommerce dashboard.

Features:

  • Automatic submission of order data to KRA upon completion

  • Works with manual and automatic completion (via PayPal, M-Pesa, etc.)

  • Generates KRA-compliant receipts

  • Supports Auto Submit to reduce manual workload

  • Compliant with eTIMS regulations for eCommerce

This plugin bridges the compliance gap for online merchants and eliminates the need for manual data entry or middleware.