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to start new business

Last activity 05 December 2015 by Longonot62

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lalji77

Im 37yr old working haed person from india now I want to start new business in keniya
I think to start export of indian traditional  hand work dress matarial and all handicraft items  anyone can suggest me or help me to do that?

Longonot62

Hi,

It is not a very straightforward process to start a business in Kenya.  In summary:  you will need a PIN from the Kenya Revenue Authority, after you have registered as an Alien, then you will be in a position to register your company, via a reputable lawyer (not sure of the fees for this).

To legally work within your company, you will need a Class G work permit.  I have pasted the requirements for this below:

Class G Requirements.

◦Documentary proof of capital to be invested/already invested minimum of 100,000 US dollars or equivalent in any other currency.
◦Registration certificate of the company OR certificate of incorporation.
◦Copies of personal and company PIN (Personal Identification Number) if business is running.
◦For renewals; audited accounts for previous 2 years and a certificate of tax compliance from the Kenya Revenue Authority.
◦Processing Fee Kshs.10,000 non-refundable.
◦Fee is Kshs. 100,000/= per year or part thereof.

If you do not apply for the work permit, your company may trade (if, for example you have a Kenyan partner), but you would not be legally permitted to do any activities within it, which could leave you open to being conned.  Being caught working without a permit may result in deportation and in my view is not a risk worth taking, particularly if you have invested heavily.

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