How to register for eTIMS in Kenya
Every business in Kenya must issue electronic tax invoices through KRA's eTIMS, including businesses not registered for VAT. Signing up is free and no longer needs KRA approval.
Who must use eTIMS
KRA says all persons engaged in business must onboard eTIMS: companies, partnerships, sole proprietors, associations, trusts and informal traders, including taxpayers on Turnover Tax or Monthly Rental Income. Businesses making VAT-exempt supplies, such as schools or hospitals, must also onboard. Without eTIMS invoices, your customers cannot claim your invoices as business expenses or input VAT.
Pick the right solution
| Solution | Best for |
|---|---|
| eTIMS Lite (web, via eCitizen) | Businesses with few transactions |
| eTIMS Lite (USSD *222#) | Individuals and sole proprietors |
| Online portal | Service businesses that supply no goods |
| eTIMS Client (download) | Businesses selling goods, several branches or tills |
| OSCU / VSCU integration | Invoicing from your own system or in high volume |
How to register
- Check your iTax phone number. Sign-up sends a one-time password to the number on your iTax profile; update it first if needed.
- Choose your solution from the table above.
- Sign up on the eTIMS portal (etims.kra.go.ke) or eCitizen for eTIMS Lite, using your KRA PIN and the one-time password.
- Set up items and customers, then send a test invoice.
- Connect your accounting software if it supports eTIMS. Zoho Books lists eTIMS-compliant invoicing on its Kenyan paid plans.
Cost: KRA's eTIMS software is free; third-party integrators may charge. Suppliers with turnover of KES 5 million or less can have buyers issue invoices for them.