NSSF Online Registration in Kenya: A Step-by-Step Guide
Are you a Kenyan employee, self-employed person, or business owner looking to register with the National Social Security Fund (NSSF) online? You are in the right place.
With Kenya’s shift toward digital public services, NSSF online registration is now faster, more convenient, and accessible to everyone. Whether you are registering as an individual contributor or an employer, this guide will walk you through everything you need to know.
Table of Contents
What is NSSF?
The National Social Security Fund (NSSF) is a government-run scheme that provides social security protection to workers in Kenya. Its primary role is to collect contributions and pay benefits to members upon retirement or in case of disability or death.
Who Needs to Register for NSSF?
- All Kenyan employees (formal and informal sectors)
- Self-employed individuals (voluntary contributors)
- Employers (who must register and remit contributions for their employees)
- First-time job seekers (to get an NSSF number before employment)
Read Also: SHA Registration: A Step-by-Step Guide
How to Register for NSSF Online
1. Visit the NSSF e-Service Portal
Go to the official NSSF registration site:
https://selfservice.nssf.or.ke
Individual (Member) Registration
Step-by-Step:
- Click “Member Registration”.
- Choose “Kenyan Citizen” or “Foreign National”.
- Fill in the required personal details:
- Full name (as per ID)
- National ID or Passport number
- Date of birth
- Email and phone number
- KRA PIN
- Upload scanned copies of your:
- National ID (front and back)
- Passport photo (if required)
- Review and confirm your details.
- Submit your application.
You will receive a confirmation email or SMS with your NSSF Number once the registration is approved.
Employer Registration
Step-by-Step:
- Select “Employer Registration” on the portal.
- Choose the employer type:
- Sole proprietor
- Partnership
- Limited company
- NGO/Parastatal
- Provide:
- Business registration certificate (BRS)
- KRA PIN certificate
- Postal and physical address
- Contact person details
- Upload supporting documents:
- Certificate of incorporation
- CR12 (for companies)
- ID copies of directors
- Submit the application.
- After approval, you will receive an NSSF Employer Code via email.
How to Make NSSF Contributions
You can make NSSF payments using the E-Citizen portal or via M-PESA.
M-PESA Paybill:
- Paybill Number: 333300
- Account Number: Your NSSF Number
- Amount: As per your category (Tier I & Tier II contributions)
For employers: Use the NSSF e-service portal to generate payment slips before remitting via bank or M-PESA.
NSSF New Contribution Rates
Under the NSSF Act 2013, contributions are divided into:
| Tier | Monthly Income Bracket | Employee Contribution | Employer Contribution |
|---|---|---|---|
| I | Up to KShs 6,000 | 6% (max KShs 360) | 6% (max KShs 360) |
| II | Above KShs 6,000 | 6% of excess up to KShs 18,000 | 6% of excess up to KShs 18,000 |
Employers must remit both employee and employer shares by the 9th of the following month.
Required Documents for Online Registration
Individuals:
- National ID or passport
- KRA PIN (optional but recommended)
- Valid email and phone number
Employers:
- Certificate of incorporation/registration
- KRA PIN certificate
- ID copies of directors/owners
- CR12 (for companies)
Here is a more detailed and well-organized explanation of the benefits of NSSF membership in Kenya:
Benefits of NSSF Membership in Kenya
Enrolling with the National Social Security Fund (NSSF) offers a range of social protection benefits designed to support Kenyan workers throughout their careers and beyond. Below are the core benefits members enjoy:
1. Retirement Pension
- This is the main benefit for members who reach the official retirement age (currently 60 years).
- Monthly or lump sum payments are made based on the member’s total contributions plus accrued interest.
- Offers financial independence in old age and reduces reliance on family or government support.
2. Invalidity Benefits
- Provided to members who become permanently incapacitated and can no longer work due to illness or injury.
- Paid out as a lump sum or structured pension, depending on the member’s contributions and medical certification.
- Offers social protection and financial support during a vulnerable time.
3. Survivors’ Benefits
- In the event of a member’s death, next of kin or dependents (e.g., spouse, children, or parents) are entitled to claim benefits.
- This ensures financial security for families after the loss of a breadwinner.
- The process typically requires death and relationship certificates for claim verification.
4. Withdrawal Benefits
- These are offered in special cases such as:
- Emigration (leaving Kenya permanently)
- Redundancy or early retirement
- Members can access their full contributions (both employer and employee share), offering a financial cushion during transition periods.
5. Housing Scheme Eligibility
- Under the Affordable Housing Plan, registered NSSF members are eligible to:
- Apply for mortgages or housing finance backed by NSSF.
- Access housing benefits such as down payment assistance or structured loans.
- Helps promote long-term asset ownership and dignity in retirement.
Bonus Benefits
- Accrued interest on savings, making it a long-term investment tool.
- Portability of benefits for members who switch jobs.
- Online account access for easy monitoring and updating of contribution status.
In Summary: Online NSSF Registration
| Benefit | Description |
|---|---|
| Retirement Pension | Monthly/lump sum support after retirement age |
| Invalidity Benefit | Payout in case of permanent disability |
| Survivors’ Benefit | Financial support for dependents in case of death |
| Withdrawal Benefit | For emigration or redundancy |
| Housing Eligibility | Access to affordable housing and home financing |
FAQs on NSSF Online Registration
Q: Can I register for NSSF without visiting an office?
Yes. The process is fully online via https://selfservice.nssf.or.ke.
Q: How long does registration take?
Typically 1–3 business days, depending on verification.
Q: Is NSSF registration mandatory?
Yes, for all employers and employees in the formal sector. Voluntary for informal/self-employed workers.
Conclusion: Start Your NSSF Registration Today
With online registration, securing your social security through NSSF has never been easier. Whether you’re starting your first job, running a business, or contributing voluntarily, use the NSSF e-service portal to enroll and manage your account from anywhere.
Take charge of your retirement — register with NSSF today at https://selfservice.nssf.or.ke