How to Get a County Business Permit in Nairobi in 2026

Understanding Nairobi's Business Permit Requirements in 2026

A county business permit is mandatory for any business operating in Nairobi County under the Business Names Act and the Nairobi City County Finance Act. In 2026, the process runs entirely online through NairobiPay. Your permit classifies your business by activity type and determines your annual licensing fee, which varies by business size, location and category.

Step 1: Register Your Business Name

Before applying for a county permit, you must register your business name with the Business Registration Service (BRS) via the eCitizen portal (ecitizen.go.ke). Search the existing register to ensure your chosen name is available. Registration costs KSh 950 and you'll receive a certificate of business name registration—essential documentation for your county permit application. Approval typically arrives within 3–5 business days, with total time from name search to certificate around 4–6 business days.

Step 2: Obtain a PIN from KRA

Visit itax.kra.go.ke to register for a Personal Identification Number (PIN) if you don't have one. Nairobi County requires your KRA PIN on all permit applications. Registration is free and instant. Keep your PIN secure—you'll use it for tax compliance and business registration across all government portals.

Step 3: Apply Through NairobiPay Portal

Access the Nairobi County business licensing portal at https://epayments.nairobi.go.ke. Your actual fee is assessed automatically by the NairobiPay portal based on your exact business category, floor area, employee count, and the tariffs currently in force. Complete your application with your business details, business name certificate, KRA PIN, and identification documents. Select your business category carefully—the system will calculate your estimated annual fee based on your inputs.

Step 4: Pay Your License Fee

Payment happens entirely online through M-Pesa, USSD *647#, or bank transfer via Equity or Co-operative Bank; cash is not accepted anywhere in the process. A small shop with four staff pays around KSh 4,000 plus a KSh 200 application fee; a medium café might pay KSh 7,500–15,200; large operations run from KSh 30,000 into six figures. In January 2026 Governor Johnson Sakaja announced a two-year permit fee waiver for young people who received NYOTA Fund grants and start businesses in Nairobi—if you're just launching, confirm your eligibility before you pay anything. Once payment clears, your application moves to verification status.

Step 5: Inspection and Approval

County inspectors may conduct a site visit to verify your business location and operations comply with zoning laws. Processing time is typically same day to a few working days once documents and payment are verified. If approved, you'll receive your county business permit certificate and a registration number—display this prominently at your business premises. You can start trading immediately once your permit is issued.

Get Expert Help

The process can be complex, especially if your business involves special licensing (food, alcohol, transport) or spans multiple county jurisdictions. Find a verified Kenyan expert on Kaziiko who specialises in business registration and licensing to navigate requirements faster and avoid costly errors.

Key Tips for 2026

• Renew annually by the deadline set by the county; late renewal attracts penalties under Nairobi County bylaws
• Keep all documentation—you may need copies for tax audits and bank account applications
• Update your business details immediately if you change premises or business activity

Frequently Asked Questions

How much does business name registration cost?

Registration costs KSh 950, which covers both the name search and the registration. You'll also see a small eCitizen transaction charge added at checkout.

How long does business name registration take?

Approval typically arrives within 3–5 business days, with total time from name search start to certificate around 4–6 business days. In busy periods it may take up to 10 days.

What's the permit fee range in Nairobi?

Fees vary significantly by business type and size—there is no single flat fee. A small shop pays around KSh 4,000 plus KSh 200 application fee; medium businesses might pay KSh 7,500–15,200; larger operations start from KSh 30,000 and up. Check the NairobiPay portal for your exact category.

Do new startups get a discount?

In January 2026 Governor Johnson Sakaja announced a two-year permit fee waiver for young people who received NYOTA Fund grants and start businesses in Nairobi—confirm your eligibility for this waiver before paying.