How to Check if a Company is Registered in Kenya

Before engaging with any business, it’s essential to confirm its registration status. A registered company in Kenya holds legal recognition, offering a sense of security for potential investors, clients, and partners. With the eCitizen portal, checking a company’s registration is fast, affordable, and straightforward. This guide walks you through how to check if a company is legally registered in Kenya.

Step-by-Step Guide to Checking Company Registration in Kenya

The process of verifying if a company is registered in Kenya is done efficiently through the eCitizen portal. Here’s how you can access detailed company information like directors, shareholders, and company status using the CR 12 form.

How to Access Company Details on eCitizen

1. Visit the eCitizen Website:
   • Go to the official eCitizen portal.
2. Sign In to Your eCitizen Account:
   • Log in using your email, ID number, or digital ID. If you’re using a mobile device, you can log in through the eCitizen app by scanning the QR code.
3. Navigate to Business Registration Services:
   • Once logged in, select Business Registration Service from the dashboard.
4. Search for Company Information:
   • Click on Make Application and then select Official Search (Third Party Application).
   • The system will display a fee for the service, and you can proceed by clicking Apply Now.
5. Enter Company Name or Registration Number:
   • Enter the company name or registration number you want to verify. If the company exists, it will appear in the search results.
6. Review and Finalize:
   • After selecting the company, fill in your postal details and confirm the information.
   • Click Finish to proceed.
7. Make Payment:
   • Pay the required fee, and you will receive a CR 12 form containing the full company details, including its directors, shareholders, and any charges on the company.

Cost of Verifying a Company

The eCitizen portal offers a reliable and affordable way to verify a company’s registration. Here’s the fee breakdown:

How to Search for a Company Name Before Registration

If you wish to check the availability of a company name before registration, follow these simple steps:

1. Log In to eCitizen:
   • Open your eCitizen account.
2. Go to the Attorney General Section:
   • Click Office of the Attorney General and Department of Justice, then select Make Application.
3. Apply for Name Search:
   • Choose Name Search – Company/Business from the list of services.
4. Enter the Proposed Business Name:
   • Provide the name and a brief description of your business.
5. Pay the Search Fee:
   • Submit the details and pay the required fee. You’ll receive a response within 24 hours indicating if the name is available.

How to Register a Business Name Online

If your desired company name is available, you can register it right away:

1. Log In to eCitizen:
   • Open your eCitizen account.
2. Complete Business Registration:
   • Navigate to Business Registration Service and select Business Name Registration.
3. Submit Business Details:
   • Fill in your business details, including ownership and address.
4. Pay the Registration Fee:
   • Pay the registration fee (KES 950), and submit the application.
5. Receive Certificate of Registration:
   • After processing, you will receive your certificate of registration confirming your company’s legal status.

Timelines for Business Registration

Here are the typical processing timelines for different business registration activities:

Conclusion

Verifying if a company is registered in Kenya is an important step in ensuring you are dealing with a legitimate business. Using the eCitizen portal, you can access the CR 12 form, which provides detailed company information, including the company’s directors, shareholders, and more. Whether you’re verifying an existing business or preparing to register your own, the process is simple, affordable, and transparent.

By using the eCitizen platform, you can ensure that your business dealings are safe, and that you are complying with Kenyan laws.