How to Open and Operate a Bank in Kenya – CBK

Starting a bank or mortgage finance company in Kenya requires deep pockets, among many other stringent regulations.

According to the Central Bank of Kenya (CBK), individuals or entities seeking to establish such institutions must meet rigorous financial and regulatory requirements, including a minimum capital threshold of Ksh1 billion.

This capital requirement, as stipulated in the Banking Act, is part of a broader effort by regulators to ensure stability, trust, and sustainability within Kenya’s financial services sector.

It also serves to deter undercapitalised players from entering the market, which could pose systemic risks.

Whether you are looking to establish a commercial bank, mortgage finance company, or a non-bank financial institution, it is important to follow all legal and procedural steps.

The Kenya Times has put together a detailed guide outlining the requirements and steps involved in applying for a banking license in Kenya.

Also Read: CBK Lifts Ban on Licensing New Banks

Step-by-Step Guide to Opening a Bank in Kenya

The first step involves preliminary consultation with CBK, which includes initiating contact early. 

Further, arrange a meeting to understand licensing requirements and discuss any related issues.

Thereafter, applicants are required to seek CBK’s approval to use the word “bank” or “finance” in the proposed institution’s name.

Once the name is approved, apply for incorporation as a limited liability company through the Registrar of Companies.

After incorporation, apply to the CBK for a license to operate.

To get the license, the following forms are required and can be downloaded from the CBK website:

1. Application Form for a License (CBK IF 1-1)

2. “Fit and Proper” Form for Directors and CEO (CBK IF 1-2)

3. “Fit and Proper” Form for Significant Shareholders (CBK IF 1-3)

Moreover, with the completed application form (CBK IF 1-1), provide a certified copy of Certificate of Incorporation, a certified Memorandum and Articles of Association and a certified Memorandum and Articles of any corporate body shareholder.

Additionally, applicants are required to provide an audited financial statement for the past 3 years for corporate shareholders and a certified personal statement of affairs for natural person shareholders.

Applicants must demonstrate the source of their funds, especially for any shareholder controlling more than 5% of the proposed institution’s equity.

This includes both individual and institutional shareholders. Acceptable proof includes certified bank statements, fixed deposit receipts (FDRs), or government securities.

Pay Application Fee

A non-refundable fee of Ksh5,000 payable via banker’s cheque or as prescribed by CBK is required for application.

Additional Requirements for Foreign Institutions and Licensing Process in Kenya

Foreign institutions seeking to establish operations in Kenya must meet several regulatory requirements as outlined by the Central Bank of Kenya (CBK).

These institutions are required to submit a notarised board resolution authorising the establishment of a Kenyan branch or subsidiary.

Additionally, the board must provide a formal undertaking to maintain a minimum assigned capital denominated in Kenyan Shillings.

To facilitate ongoing engagement, the foreign institution must also provide the contact details of a liaison officer based at the head office.

Also, a letter of no objection from the institution’s home supervisor is mandatory, alongside documented evidence of a supervisory information exchange agreement between the home supervisor and the CBK.

Furthermore, the institution must confirm that it does not operate as a shell bank and, where applicable, must provide assurance that it is subject to consolidated supervision.

As part of the due diligence process, sworn declarations must be completed and submitted by every officer of the institution, using the designated forms provided by the CBK.

Applicants must also conduct and submit a comprehensive feasibility study covering a three-year period. This study should include a detailed group structure diagram, if relevant, and a proposed organizational structure that outlines key roles such as the Board of Directors, Chief Executive Officer, and major functional divisions.

Also Read: CBK Reveals Banks with Lowest & Highest Loan Interest Rates as of February 2025

Documents Required During Submission

According to CBK, the submission should be accompanied by curricula vitae and supporting documents for all significant shareholders and officers.

These documents must include academic and professional certificates, references, tax compliance certificates, personal credit reports, and recent financial statements.

The feasibility study should also feature a preliminary schedule of expected expenses, three-year financial projections, and an interest rate sensitivity analysis.

Moreover, an operational plan should be included, specifying which services will be handled in-house and which will be outsourced, supported by clear reasoning and corresponding risk mitigation strategies.

Finally, a market analysis should be conducted, assessing factors such as the population, economic activity, and the current banking landscape in the targeted area.

The institution is also required to provide proof of the source of capital for any shareholder holding more than five percent of the total shares. Acceptable forms of evidence include certified bank statements, fixed deposit receipts, or government securities. 

Each significant shareholder must also submit a sworn declaration, using CBK forms IF 1-3, affirming that the funds used for capital injection are not derived from illicit activities.

Once all requirements have been satisfactorily met, the CBK may issue an Approval in Principle. Later, the institution must demonstrate operational readiness, which includes securing suitable premises, implementing IT systems, and recruiting the necessary personnel to manage operations effectively.

Upon achieving operational readiness, the institution must formally invite the CBK to inspect its premises and assess its preparedness to commence operations.

After a successful inspection, the institution must pay the full annual licensing fees in accordance with the rates specified in the Fourth Schedule of the Banking Act.

When every condition is met, the CBK will publish a notice in the Kenya Gazette officially recognising the institution and issue the operating license, thereby granting the institution the authority to begin banking operations within the Republic of Kenya.

Follow our WhatsApp Channel and X Account for real-time news updates.