License a private security company (PSRA)
Private Security Regulatory Authority · sources read 2 Oct 2026
To run a security company in Kenya you need a PSRA licence. Apply on psra.ecitizen.go.ke with your company papers, directors' good conduct certificates, CR12, KRA PINs and three years of audited accounts; the licence lasts 5 years but must be renewed every year.
- Fee
- We couldn't confirm a fee from the official page. Check it there before you pay.
- Where
- Online on the PSRA eCitizen portal (psra.ecitizen.go.ke). PSRA office: Lonrho House, 10th Floor, Nairobi CBD.
What you need
- Certificate of incorporation (or other registration documents)
- Certified CR12 (shareholders' certificate)
- Certified ID copies (passport for foreigners) for every director, partner and shareholder
- A valid certificate of good conduct for every director, partner and shareholder
- KRA PIN certificates for the company and every director and shareholder
- Three years of audited accounts
- Two recent colour passport photos of every director and shareholder
- For expatriates: proof of immigration status and a valid work permit
Steps
- Get your company papers ready: certificate of incorporation, CR12, KRA PINs, audited accounts, and IDs, photos and good conduct certificates for every director.
- Log in to psra.ecitizen.go.ke with your eCitizen account, choose Private Security Registration, fill in the form, upload the documents and pay.
- Your company must pass security vetting, with nothing adverse found, before a licence can be issued.
- If you meet the requirements, PSRA issues your licence. Renew it every year to keep it valid.
Watch out
- The licence runs for 5 years, but only if you renew it every year.
- There is no waiver of the 25% local shareholding rule for foreign companies.
- A security licence from another country doesn't count. You still have to register with PSRA to operate in Kenya.
Who can apply
- Companies incorporated and set up in Kenya.
- A foreign company can apply only with at least 25% Kenyan (local) shareholding.
- Your directors and managers must be registered with PSRA as private security providers.
- Serving members of the disciplined forces can't register a security company.
Official sources (4)
- Frequently Asked Questions psra.go.ke · read 2 Oct 2026
- Private Security Regulation Act No. 13 of 2016 psra.go.ke · read 2 Oct 2026
- Apply Now psra.go.ke · read 2 Oct 2026
- Private Security Regulatory Authority - eCitizen psra.ecitizen.go.ke · read 2 Oct 2026