How to Register for a KRA PIN Online in 2026 (Step-by-Step Guide)
How to Register for a KRA PIN Online
A KRA Personal Identification Number (PIN) is required for almost everything in Kenya: employment, opening a bank account, registering a business, buying land or a car, applying for a loan and many government services. Registration is free and takes about 15 minutes online.
What You Need
- Your national ID number (or alien ID / passport for non-citizens)
- An active email address you can access - the PIN certificate and password are sent there
- Your phone number
- Your physical address details (county, town, street)
- For employed people: your employer's PIN (optional at registration)
Step-by-Step: Individual KRA PIN
- Go to the KRA iTax portal at itax.kra.go.ke.
- Click New PIN Registration.
- Select Taxpayer Type: Individual and Mode of Registration: Online Form, then click Next.
- Fill in your basic information: ID number, date of birth and the other personal details. The system validates them against the national registration database.
- Enter your contact and address details, including the email you will use.
- Select your obligations. Employed people choose Income Tax - Resident Individual. Do not add obligations you do not have (such as VAT) - they create filing duties.
- Add your source of income (employment, business, rental or none).
- Review, answer the arithmetic security question and click Submit.
- Download the PIN certificate from the confirmation page; a copy and your iTax login details are emailed to you.
Registering a Business (Non-Individual) PIN
Companies and partnerships registered through the Business Registration Service on eCitizen are usually issued a KRA PIN automatically together with the certificate of incorporation. Sole proprietors use their personal PIN for the business and add business income as a source and relevant obligations such as Turnover Tax.
Retrieving a Forgotten PIN or Password
- Forgot the PIN: use the PIN Checker on iTax or the KRA M-Service app, or call KRA's contact centre.
- Forgot the password: click "Forgot Password/Unlock Account" on iTax and follow the email reset.
- Email no longer accessible: you will need to update your email with KRA, which may require visiting a KRA service centre or Huduma Centre with your ID.
Common Problems
- "ID details do not match": your name or date of birth must match your ID exactly. Correct registration records at the National Registration Bureau if needed.
- "PIN already exists": someone (often an employer or cyber cafe) registered you before. Retrieve it instead of registering again.
- Did not receive the email: check spam, and make sure you entered the address correctly.
After You Get Your PIN
Your PIN comes with obligations. Even if you have no income, you must file an annual return by 30 June - see how to file KRA nil returns. Employees file using their P9 from their employer.
KRA PIN for Different People
| Applicant | What to know |
|---|---|
| Kenyan citizens | Register with your national ID; details are validated against the national registry |
| Foreign residents | Register with your alien ID or foreigner certificate, and supporting documents such as a work permit |
| Non-resident foreigners | Register with a passport and documents showing why a PIN is needed |
| Minors | Generally register through a parent or guardian, using the birth certificate, where a PIN is required |
| Companies and partnerships | Usually issued during business registration on eCitizen |
What Your PIN Is Used For
You will be asked for your KRA PIN when you:
- Start a job, so your employer can deduct and remit PAYE
- Open a bank account or apply for a loan
- Register a business, company or vehicle
- Buy or transfer land
- Apply for a tax compliance certificate, tenders or certain licences
- Apply for government services on eCitizen
Understanding Tax Obligations
Obligations tell KRA which returns you must file. Common ones include:
| Obligation | Who needs it |
|---|---|
| Income Tax - Resident Individual | Every individual with a PIN |
| PAYE | Employers |
| VAT | Businesses with taxable sales above KES 5 million a year |
| Turnover Tax | Small businesses with turnover between KES 1 million and KES 25 million |
| Monthly Rental Income | Landlords under the residential rental income regime |
Only add obligations that apply to you. Each one creates filing duties - often monthly.
Keeping Your PIN Safe
Your PIN and iTax password give access to your tax records. Do not share your password with cyber cafe staff after they help you; change it once you are done. Watch for fake messages asking you to "update your PIN" through links - KRA does not request passwords by SMS.
Updating Your Details
Change your email, phone number or address on iTax under the Amend PIN details option. Keep your contact details current so you receive notices and can reset your password.
Frequently Asked Questions
How long does it take to get a KRA PIN? Online registration usually produces a PIN certificate immediately after submission, if your details validate.
Is the KRA PIN certificate free? Yes. Registration and the certificate are free on iTax.
Can I have two KRA PINs? No. Each person should have only one PIN. If you have two, contact KRA to have the duplicate deactivated.
Do I file returns as soon as I get a PIN? You file your first annual return by 30 June of the year after you register, and every year after that - even if you had no income.