Last reviewed: November 2026. Rules, fees and advisories change; confirm on the official links at the end of this page before you act.
Kenya is East Africa's business hub, and foreigners can own 100% of most kinds of company. Registration is mostly online. The main extra step for a foreigner who wants to live and run the business in Kenya is the investor permit.
Quick facts
| Usual vehicle | Private limited company |
|---|---|
| Registration | Business Registration Service (BRS) via eCitizen |
| Tax | KRA PIN for the company, registered on iTax |
| Local licence | Single business permit from the county government |
| To live and run it in Kenya | Class G (investor) permit; a minimum investment applies, check the current figure with Immigration |
| Foreign-owned companies | Some sectors have local-ownership rules; check before you invest |
Step by step
- Choose and reserve a name on the BRS portal via eCitizen.
- Prepare documents: passport copies, director and shareholder details, a registered Kenyan address and the company's constitution (articles).
- Register the company online and pay the fee. You receive a certificate of incorporation and the company's KRA PIN.
- Open a bank account in the company's name. Banks will ask for incorporation documents and identification of directors and owners.
- Get county and sector licences: a single business permit and any sector licences (for example tourism, health or food).
- Register for taxes and statutory deductions: VAT if you pass the threshold, PAYE, the Social Health Authority and NSSF for employees.
- Apply for permits: the Class G investor permit for yourself, and work permits for any foreign staff, through the eFNS portal.
Tips from people who have done it
- Use a local lawyer or company secretary; it saves time with banks and licences.
- Keep records from day one; KRA filing is monthly for many taxes.
- Be wary of anyone who offers to "fast-track" permits for cash.
- Check land ownership carefully before buying or leasing premises.
More for visitors and the diaspora
- Kenya eTA 2026: fees and how to apply
- Is Kenya safe to visit in 2026?
- Sending money to Kenya from abroad
- Starting a business in Kenya as a foreigner
- Moving to Kenya: permits, housing and costs
