Before you register a company or business in Kenya, you must first confirm that your proposed name is available. This is done through a business name search on the eCitizen platform, managed by the Business Registration Service (BRS) under the Office of the Attorney General.
You cannot skip this step. It prevents duplication and ensures your business name is legally protected before registration. If your name is not approved, you cannot proceed with registration.
The name search costs KES 150 per application and results are usually issued within 1–2 working days. The process is fully online, and you do not need to visit any government office.
Here is exactly how you do it.
What You Need Before You Start
Before logging in, prepare the following:
- A valid Kenyan ID (or passport if you are a foreigner)
- An active email address
- A working mobile phone number
- Three proposed business names
- A short description of your business activity
When choosing names, avoid restricted or regulated words such as:
- Bank
- Government
- National
- Authority
- Trust
Also avoid:
- Single-word names
- Offensive or misleading words
- Numerals (unless referring to the current year)
If your name violates these rules, it will be rejected.
Step-by-Step: How to Search and Reserve a Business Name in Kenya
Step 1: Create an eCitizen Account
Go to accounts.ecitizen.go.ke.
Select:
- “Citizen” if you are Kenyan
- Use your passport details if you are a foreigner
Enter your ID/passport number, email, and phone number.
Verify your account using the OTP sent to your phone or email.
Set your password and complete registration.
Step 2: Access the Business Registration Service (BRS)
Log in to ecitizen.go.ke.
From your dashboard:
- Click the Business Registration Service (BRS) icon
OR - Navigate to the Office of the Attorney General and Department of Justice
This is where all business name and company registration services are handled.
Step 3: Select “Name Search”
Click:
Name Search – Company/Business
or
Name Search and Reservation
Carefully read the instructions and restrictions before proceeding.
Step 4: Enter Your Proposed Names
Select the type of business entity:
- Sole Proprietorship
- Limited Company
- Partnership
Enter:
- Your primary proposed name
- Two alternative names
- A brief description of your business activities
Be precise. The description helps reviewers determine whether your name aligns with your intended business.
Step 5: Review and Pay the Fee
Double-check all details.
Submit the application.
An invoice will be generated for KES 150.
You can pay via:
- M-Pesa
- Debit/Credit Card
- Bank payment
Step 6: Track Your Application
Go to your dashboard and check “Pending Applications.”
You will receive notification through:
- eCitizen dashboard
Approval or rejection typically takes 1–2 working days.
Step 7: Download Approval Letter
If approved:
- Download your Name Search Approval Letter
- The reservation is valid for 30 days
You must complete business registration within those 30 days. If your name is rejected, submit new alternatives and repeat the process.
Why is This Step Fundamental?
Your business name is your legal identity. This process ensures:
- Your name is legally available – No duplication of registered names
- Compliance with Kenyan naming laws
- Faster approval during company registration
Because it is fully digital, you can complete it from anywhere. That is why business name search remains one of the most searched services on Kenya’s eCitizen platform.
If you are serious about starting a business in Kenya, this is your first official step.
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