How to Register for a KRA PIN and Get Your KRA Certificate in Kenya (2026)
Key points
- A KRA PIN is Kenya’s taxpayer identifier used for employment, banking, property, and many licences.
- Most people apply or retrieve PIN details via official KRA digital channels — not random social-media “PIN agents”.
- After issuance, download and store your PIN certificate PDF; you will be asked for it repeatedly.
- Practical takeaway: Apply only on official KRA channels, save the PIN certificate PDF in two places, and never pay a stranger who promises a “faster PIN” outside the portal.
Updated August 2026. Portals and fees change — always confirm on the official site before you pay or submit.
The Kenya Revenue Authority (KRA) issues a Personal Identification Number (PIN) that uniquely identifies taxpayers. Without a PIN it is difficult to complete many bank products, land processes, formal employment onboarding, or company registration steps.
Who needs a KRA PIN
- Employees joining formal payroll.
- Business owners and freelancers invoicing in Kenya.
- People buying or selling land or registering companies.
- Many non-citizens with taxable presence or local transactions (confirm your category on KRA guidance).
How to apply or retrieve online
- Open the official KRA website and the online services / PIN application entry.
- Choose the correct applicant type (individual citizen, foreigner, company, etc.).
- Enter identity details exactly as on your ID or passport.
- Use an email and phone number you control for OTPs.
- Complete verification steps shown (including any eCitizen-linked checks).
- When issued, log in and download the PIN certificate.
- If you already had a PIN, use forgot-PIN / password recovery instead of creating a duplicate identity.
Using the PIN certificate
Banks, employers, and conveyancers often want the PDF certificate, not only the PIN digits. Keep a current download.
Security tips
- Do not post your full PIN certificate on social media.
- Beware of WhatsApp “agents” asking for ID photos plus cash to jump the queue.
- Change iTax passwords if you shared them during a one-off assist.
Next steps after you have a PIN
Many people next file returns on iTax or register a company. Use the related guides below.
Official links
FAQ
Is a PIN the same as a filed tax return?
No. A PIN identifies you. Filing a return is a separate compliance step on iTax.
I lost my PIN certificate — what now?
Log into official KRA online services and download a new certificate. You usually do not need a new PIN.
Can a company and an individual share one PIN?
No. Companies and individuals have separate PINs. Directors still keep personal PINs.
Related on ZaKenya
Editorial guide for general information only. Not legal, tax, or medical advice. ZaKenya is not affiliated with government agencies.
