KRA Tax Compliance Certificate (TCC) — How to Apply in 2026

Updated April 2026 — HelaBora

What is a Tax Compliance Certificate?

A Tax Compliance Certificate (TCC) is an official KRA document confirming that you've filed all tax returns and paid all taxes due. It's proof that you're "clean" with KRA.

You need a TCC for:

  • -Applying for government tenders
  • -Bidding for contracts (public and private)
  • -Applying for business licenses and permits
  • -Opening some bank accounts
  • -Clearing goods at customs
  • -Visa applications (some countries require it)
  • -Registering for government programmes

Requirements for a TCC

To get a TCC, you must:

  • -Have a valid KRA PIN
  • -Have filed ALL tax returns (income tax, VAT, PAYE, etc.) up to date
  • -Have no outstanding tax debts (or have an approved payment plan)
  • -Be registered on eTIMS (mandatory since 2024)

Common rejection reasons:

  • -Unfiled returns (even one missing return blocks your TCC)
  • -Outstanding tax debt
  • -Not registered on eTIMS
  • -KRA PIN not linked to your eCitizen account

How to Apply for a TCC — Step by Step

Step 1: Ensure compliance - File all outstanding returns on itax.kra.go.ke - Pay any tax arrears or set up an installment plan with KRA - Register on eTIMS if you haven't already

Step 2: Apply on iTax - Log into itax.kra.go.ke - Navigate to **"Certificates"** → **"Apply for Tax Compliance Certificate"** - Select the type (Individual or Corporate) - The system checks your compliance status automatically

Step 3: Approval - If compliant, the TCC is issued immediately (within minutes) - If issues are found, you'll see a list of non-compliance items to fix - Fix the issues and re-apply

Step 4: Download - Once approved, download your TCC from iTax - The certificate includes a QR code for verification - Anyone can verify your TCC on the KRA portal

TCC Validity

  • -Valid for 12 months from the date of issue
  • -You need to apply for a new one each year
  • -Your TCC can be revoked if you fall out of compliance during the validity period

Tips for Keeping Your TCC Active

  • -File all returns on time (even nil returns)
  • -Pay taxes by the due date
  • -Keep your eTIMS registration active
  • -Update your KRA profile when your details change
  • -Apply for renewal 2-3 months before expiry

Related Tools

PAYE CalculatorVAT Calculator

Frequently Asked Questions

How long does it take to get a Tax Compliance Certificate?

If you're fully compliant with KRA, the TCC is issued within minutes after applying on iTax. If there are compliance issues, it depends on how quickly you resolve them.

How much does a TCC cost?

A Tax Compliance Certificate is free of charge. You apply through the KRA iTax portal at no cost.

How long is a TCC valid?

A Tax Compliance Certificate is valid for 12 months from the date of issue. You must apply for a new one each year.