Registering a business in Kenya has never been easier with the eCitizen platform. Whether you’re starting a side hustle, a tech startup or a new company, the first step is to secure your business name.

This guide will walk you through how to search, reserve and register a business name online using eCitizen in 2025.

Step 1: Create or Log in to Your eCitizen Account

  1. Go to https://accounts.ecitizen.go.ke

  2. Log in using your ID number and password.

  3. If you don’t have an account, click “Create Account” and choose “Citizen”.

Step 2: Access the Business Registration Service

After logging in:

  1. Click on the Business Registration Service (BRS) icon on your dashboard.

  2. Select Name Search and Reservation.

Step 3: Search for a Name

Enter your desired business name in the search field. The system will check if the name is:

  • Available

  • Already taken

  • Too similar to existing names

  • Contains restricted words (like "National", "Government", "Bank", etc.)

Tips for name approval:

  • Be unique and creative

  • Avoid generic terms like “Solutions Ltd”

  • Use a combination of words

Step 4: Reserve the Name

Once the name is available:

  1. Proceed to reserve it by paying KES 150 via M-PESA.

  2. You will receive a confirmation and the name will be reserved for 30 days.

Step 5: Register Your Business

After reservation:

  1. Go back to the BRS dashboard and select Register a Business Name.

  2. Fill in the required details:

    • Proposed business name

    • Business type (e.g., Sole Proprietorship, Partnership)

    • Nature of business

    • Address (physical and postal)

    • Owner’s details (ID, KRA PIN, phone, email)

  3. Upload a scanned copy of your ID and passport photo.

  4. Pay the registration fee (approx. KES 950).

Step 6: Download Your Certificate

Once your application is approved (usually within 1–2 working days):

  • You’ll receive an SMS and email notification.

  • Log in to your eCitizen account.

  • Download your Business Name Certificate.

2025 Notes

The BRS system now links your business to your KRA PIN.

  • Use the same email and phone number across all government systems.

  • No need to physically visit the Registrar of Companies unless for special applications.

Benefits of Registering Your Business Name

  • Gives your brand legal identity

  • Open a business bank account

  • Access government tenders and funding

  • Build trust with customers and partners

Conclusion

Registering your business name is the first step to formalizing your hustle in Kenya. It’s fully digital and affordable. Use the eCitizen portal and grow your business right.