In today’s dynamic business environment, changing a business name can be a strategic decision aimed at enhancing your brand or adjusting to shifts in ownership and market positioning. Whether you’re an individual proprietor, a corporation undergoing rebranding, or part of a merger, the Kenyan government has made the process of updating your official business name simple and accessible through the eCitizen portal.
For just Ksh 4,200, you can now change your business name online without the need to visit any government office. Here’s a comprehensive step-by-step guide on how to go about it.
Why Change a Business Name?
Businesses opt for a name change for various reasons:
- Ownership changes: Whether due to mergers, acquisitions, or new partnerships.
- Rebranding: Companies may want a fresh, streamlined brand identity to better reflect their evolving vision or target market.
- Consolidation: Sometimes, businesses merge multiple entities into a single company to simplify operations.
- Trademark issues: In some cases, a business might need to change its name to avoid conflicts with existing trademarks or names.
Whatever the reason, changing your business name in Kenya is now a streamlined process, thanks to the eCitizen portal.
Step-by-Step Guide to Changing Your Business Name on eCitizen
Follow these steps to complete the process:
Step 1: Log in to the eCitizen Portal
Visit the eCitizen portal and log in to your account. If you don’t have an account, you’ll need to create one by providing your personal details and setting up a password.
Step 2: Access Business Registration Services (BRS)
Once logged in, navigate to the Business Registration Services (BRS) section. This is where you will find all the tools required for managing your business registration.
Step 3: Select Your Business
On the dashboard, click View under the “My Businesses” section to see a list of the businesses registered under your name. Select the business you wish to change the name of.
Step 4: Make an Application
After selecting your business, click on Maintain a company, then select Make Application. A drop-down menu will appear. Choose Change Business Particulars.
Step 5: Conduct a Name Search
Before you can proceed with the name change, you need to ensure that the new name is unique and not already in use by another entity. Click on the name search option and conduct a search. You will be required to pay Ksh 150 for this service.
It is crucial to make sure your new name does not conflict with existing names or trademarks, as this could lead to delays or rejection of your application.
Step 6: File Official Documents
Once you’ve confirmed the availability of your new business name, you will need to file the official documentation to complete the process. Here’s how:
- Open another tab and log in to the BRS website.
- Navigate to the downloads section and click on Forms/Regulations.
- Under the company registry section, download Form CR 15 (Notice of change of name) and Form CR 19 (Notice of Special/Ordinary Resolution).
- Fill out these forms and have them signed by the necessary parties.
Step 7: Upload Signed Forms and Pay
Once the forms are signed, return to the eCitizen portal and upload them in the designated section. After that, proceed to pay Ksh 4,050 for the name change application.
Step 8: Submit and Wait for Approval
After completing the payment and submitting all the required documents, you will need to wait for approval. The Business Registration Service (BRS) will review your application and notify you of the decision. This process typically takes up to five working days.
What to Expect After Submission
Once your business name change is approved, you will receive a notification via email and through the eCitizen portal. The BRS will update its records, and your new business name will be reflected in the official registry.
You will also be able to download an updated certificate of incorporation (or registration for individual businesses) with the new name. This document is crucial for legal, banking, and other operational purposes.
Changing your business name has never been easier in Kenya. The government’s digital transformation, particularly through the eCitizen platform, has greatly simplified the process. Whether you’re rebranding, restructuring, or simply giving your business a new identity, the steps outlined above will guide you through the process with minimal hassle.
Make sure you have all the necessary documents signed, conduct a thorough name search, and follow the instructions carefully to avoid delays. With a few clicks and a small fee, you can complete your business name change from the comfort of your office or home.
Business Registration Services (BRS) continues to improve its services, supporting entrepreneurs in maintaining up-to-date records and fostering a conducive business environment.
For further inquiries or assistance, you can contact BRS through the eCitizen platform or visit their offices for in-person support.
