How Do I get a CR12 In Kenya : A Complete Guide 2024

HOW DO I GET A CR12 IN KENYA

What is a CR12? A CR12 is an official document issued by the Registrar of Companies in Kenya, serving as a verified record of a company’s ownership and structure

How to Obtain a CR12 in Kenya

To acquire a CR12, follow these steps:

Access the eCitizen Portal; Create an account on the eCitizen platform if you don’t have one and log in using your credentials.
Initiate an Official Search; Navigate to the Business Registration Service section and select the “Official Search” option.
Provide Company Information; Accurately enter the company’s name or registration number.
Make Payment; Pay the prescribed fee for the search.
Download the CR12; Upon successful payment and search completion, download the generated CR12 document.

Additional Information:

Physical Submission: While online is preferred, a written request to the Registrar of Companies is an alternative.
By following these steps and considering the key points, you can efficiently obtain a CR12 for your company’s needs.

The Importance of a CR12 in Kenya.

A CR12 serves as a vital document for various stakeholders. It offers crucial information about a company’s structure and ownership, making it indispensable for:

Due Diligence: Investors, partners, and lenders rely on CR12s to assess a company’s financial health and ownership.
Legal Matters: In legal disputes, CR12s can provide essential evidence regarding company details and ownership.
Government Processes: Many government procedures, including tenders and licensing, require a valid CR12.
Internal Management: Companies use CR12s to maintain accurate records of shareholders and directors.

Essentially, a CR12 is a cornerstone document for verifying a company’s legitimacy and facilitating smooth business operations.

What does a CR12 entail;

A CR12 provides a comprehensive overview of a company’s structure and ownership. This includes details such as the company name, registration number, registered address, shareholders (including their addresses and shareholdings), directors, and any registered charges or debentures.

When to Apply for a CR12 in Kenya

A CR12 should be acquired whenever there’s a need to verify a company’s details or following significant changes within the company. Key instances include:

Post-Incorporation: Immediately after establishing the company to establish a baseline record.
Annual Returns: After filing annual returns to reflect the most recent company information.
Shareholding Changes: Upon transfers, acquisitions, or alterations in share ownership.
Directorate Changes: Following the appointment, resignation, or alteration of director details.
Capital Adjustments: After increasing or decreasing the company’s share capital.
Business Transactions: When dealing with banks, government agencies, or business partners requiring proof of company details.

Regularly updating your CR12 ensures its accuracy and relevance, safeguarding your company’s interests.

Required Documents for a CR12 Application in Kenya

To successfully apply for a CR12, you’ll need to provide the following:

Company Identification: The company’s name or registration number.
Application Form: A completed application form provided by the Registrar of Companies.
Payment: The prescribed fee for the search.
Identification: Proof of the applicant’s identity (often a national ID or passport).

Additional Tips:

While not strictly mandatory, having copies of the company’s Certificate of Incorporation and Memorandum and Articles of Association can expedite the process.
Always verify the most up-to-date requirements with the Registrar of Companies as procedures may change.

How long is the CR12 valid in Kenya:

A CR12 remains valid until the company undergoes changes. Any alterations in directors, shareholders, share capital, or registered address render the existing CR12 outdated. To ensure accuracy, obtaining a new CR12 is crucial after such modifications. While there’s no set expiration date, the document’s relevance hinges on its accuracy.