Company Name Search in Kenya

Company name Search in Kenya

Thinking about starting a business in Kenya? The journey begins with a crucial first step : securing a perfect name! This blog answers frequently asked questions to guide you smoothly through the company name search process in Kenya.

Name Search

A company name search in kenya is a formal inquiry conducted through the eCitizen portal to check the availability of your desired business name. This search helps ensure your chosen name isn’t already registered by another company and prevents potential trademark conflicts and legal issues down the line.

What is Company name Search in Kenya

The eCitizen portal checks your proposed name(s) against the Kenyan business registry database to see if it’s available.If the search is successful, the portal reserves the name for you for a period of 30 days. However, if you don’t complete the full registration process within this timeframe, the name becomes available for others to claim. For full company registration process click here!

@Afrilink we assist you in securing your preferred name as well the complete company registration process. Reach out to us today for free consultation.

How to apply for a company name search in Kenya

To conduct a company name search in Kenya, you’ll need to access the eCitizen portal which is the government’s online platform for various services, including business registration. Here’s a step-by-step guide:

Access the eCitizen Portal: Visit the eCitizen website
Create an Account (if you don’t have one): You’ll need to register for an eCitizen account if you haven’t already. The registration process is straightforward and requires basic information.
Navigate to Business Registration: Once logged in, locate the “Business Registration” section on the eCitizen platform.
Initiate Name Search: Within the “Business Registration” section, look for the option to conduct a name search. This might be labeled as “Company/Business Name Search.”
The process requires you to key in three proposed business names and possibly some additional information like the intended business activity.
Submit Application and Pay Fee: Once you’ve reviewed your application details for accuracy, submit it along with the required search fee of approximately Ksh. 150.
The eCitizen portal will then process your search and notify you within a business day regarding the availability of your chosen names.

Choosing a business name for your business in Kenya

Key Considerations;

The Uniqueness of Your Name;When selecting a name, prioritize choosing one that’s both unique and memorable. This distinctiveness will help your brand stand out from the competition and make a lasting impression on potential customers. Ideally, the name should also reflect the essence of your business and its brand identity.

Reaching a Global Audience: Translation Matters; If you envision a multilingual customer base, it’s crucial to ensure your chosen name translates well into other languages. This step prevents unintended meanings that could potentially confuse or offend your target audience.

Building for the Future: Future-Proofing Your Name; Don’t just pick a name that works for now. Consider how the name might adapt and grow with your business in the long run. Will it still resonate with your brand if your company expands or evolves its offerings over time? Choose a name with longevity in mind.

Names You Can’t Use for Your Kenyan Company

While brainstorming a unique name for your Kenyan business, it’s important to be aware of restrictions imposed by the Registrar of Companies. Here’s what to avoid including in your chosen name:

Names Suggesting Government Affiliation: Names that imply a connection with the Kenyan government, county governments, or any public authority are generally prohibited. Avoid using terms like “National,” “Kenya,” or “Government” unless you have the proper authorization.
Offensive or Undesirable Names: The Registrar has the discretion to reject names deemed offensive or undesirable. This includes names that could be considered discriminatory, vulgar and misleading to the public.
Names That Are Identical or Similar to Existing Companies: This is where the company name search on the eCitizen portal becomes crucial. You cannot register a name that’s identical or confusingly similar to an existing business name.
Restricted Words and Acronyms: Certain words or acronyms are restricted and require special permission for use. These might include terms like “Bank,” “Insurance,” Relief or “Cooperative” if your business doesn’t fall under those categories.
Trademarks: Steer clear of names that infringe on existing trademarks registered in Kenya. This protects both your business and established brands from legal complications.
Avoid use of single names.

Additional Tip:

Consult a Professional: For complex situations or if you’re unsure about a specific name, consider seeking guidance.
As a leading online business registration service provider,We are here to assist you.Reach out to us today for free consultation.