Step-by-Step Application Process
- Register Your Business — BRS registration via eCitizen. You need a Certificate of Incorporation or Business Name Registration.
- Obtain a KRA PIN — Log in to iTax (itax.kra.go.ke) and confirm your PIN is active. Your PIN certificate is required at the permit stage.
- Create a NairobiPay Account — Visit Nairobi Services and register using your national ID and phone number.
- Select Your Business Category — Under the SBP module, choose your correct trade category. The wrong category is the #1 cause of delays and inflated fees.
- Upload Required Documents — (a) Certificate of Business Registration, (b) KRA PIN Certificate, (c) National ID, (d) Lease Agreement or Title Deed, (e) Passport-size photo of proprietor.
- Pay the UBP Fee — Through the NairobiPay portal, which generates an M-Pesa STK push prompt on your phone. Alternatively, you can pay at the KRA offices at Times Tower, Nairobi.
- Book a Physical Inspection — After payment, the system prompts you to schedule. Mandatory for food outlets, clinics, and salons.
- Collect Your Permit — PDF download from NairobiPay, or a physical copy at City Hall, City Hall Way, Room 9, Ground Floor.
- Annual Renewal — Permits expire 31st December. Renew by 31st March to avoid a 5% monthly penalty.
Physical Office Locations
- Main SBP DeskCity Hall, City Hall Way — Ground Floor, Room 9
- Westlands Sub-CountyNSSF Building, Westlands — 2nd Floor
- Starehe Sub-CountyPangani, Thika Road — opposite Shell Petrol Station
- Fire Safety CertificateNairobi Fire Station, Harambee Avenue · 020-2222181
- Health CertificateCounty Public Health Office, Upper Hill Medical Centre — Room 14
Expert Pro-Tip
The NairobiPay portal can be slow during peak renewal periods (January–March). Have your KRA PIN, business registration certificate, and Land Reference (LR) Number ready before starting — missing any of these forces you to restart the application. Choose your business category carefully, as this directly determines your fee bracket.