A Business/Company/LLP may change its name voluntarily or through the Registrar’s direction.

Section 9 of the Registration of Business Names Act provides that a business may apply for change of particulars including change of name.

Section 58 of the Companies Act and Section 21(4) of the Limited Liability Partnership Act provide that the Registrar may direct the Company or LLP to change its name due to the following:

• Where there is brand confusion;
• Where the company has changed its products; or
• Where the company name is too closely tied to a specific location, e.g. Nairobi.

Process for change of name for a Business Name

1. Log into e-Citizen, business registration portal.
2. Click on “view” under my businesses.
3. Click on “Maintain a company”.
4. Click on “Make application”.
5. Select “Change of particulars” from the dropdown menu. Click on “change business name” then apply for a new name.
6. Fill in the required details and pay for name reservation.
7. On approval, proceed to download form BN6 (change of name of business name).
8. Sign and upload the document.
9. Pay the required fees- Kshs. 850 and submit the application for review.
10. A certificate of Change of Name shall be issued by the Registrar for successful applications.

 

Process for change of name for a Company

1. Log into e-Citizen, business registration portal using the Company Secretary’s or Director’s credentials.
2. Click on “View” under my Businesses.
3. Click on “Make Application”.
4. Choose “Change of Name” from the drop down menu.
5. Click on “Search new name” button.
6. Conduct a unique name search then await approval (approximately 24 hours).
7. Once a name is approved, proceed to download form CR15 (Application for change of name) and CR19 (company resolution to change name).
8. Sign and upload the documents.
9. Pay the requisite fees – Kshs. 4050 and submit the application for review.
10. A certificate of Change of Name shall be issued by the Registrar for successful applications.