How to Obtain a Mineral Dealers Licence Kenya – Complete Step-by-Step Guide

Anyone looking to legally buy, sell, trade or export minerals in Kenya must understand how to obtain a mineral dealers licence Kenya. Operating without the proper authorisation is illegal under the Mining Act, 2016 and the Mining (Dealings in Minerals) Regulations. This guide focuses exclusively on the process, requirements, costs and practical considerations for securing a mineral dealers licence Kenya or the related permit.

What Is a Mineral Dealers Licence Kenya?

A mineral dealers licence Kenya (also called a mineral dealer’s trading licence) authorises the holder to buy, sell, store and, subject to additional export permits, move specified minerals. There is also a simpler mineral dealers permit that allows domestic trading only and does not permit exports.

Understanding the difference is the first step when researching how to obtain a mineral dealers licence Kenya. The licence is issued by the Cabinet Secretary responsible for mining through the State Department for Mining and is administered via the online Mining Cadastre Portal.

Who Needs a Mineral Dealers Licence Kenya?

You need this licence if you intend to:

Buy minerals from miners or other dealers
Sell or trade minerals commercially
Store minerals for commercial purposes
Export minerals (licence holders can apply for separate export permits)

Artisanal or small-scale local traders may qualify for the lower-tier permit, while those handling precious metals, gemstones or larger volumes typically require the full mineral dealers licence Kenya.

Requirements for a Mineral Dealers Licence Kenya

To successfully apply, prepare the following core documents:

Certificate of Incorporation or Business Registration Certificate
Current CR12 (list of directors and shareholders)
Valid KRA PIN and Tax Compliance Certificate
National ID or passport of directors/applicants
Proof of physical business premises and secure storage facilities (lease or title)
Certificate of Good Conduct (in many cases)
Description of previous experience in mineral dealings
Bank statements or financial capacity evidence
Details of the specific minerals you wish to deal in

Foreign applicants or directors usually need additional immigration status (such as a relevant work permit). Premises inspection may be required before final approval.

Step-by-Step Process: How to Obtain a Mineral Dealers Licence Kenya

Register on the Mining Cadastre Portal
Create a user account on the official Kenya Mining Cadastre Portal. Upload identification and, if applying as a company, a letter of authority.
Complete the Online Application
Log in and select the mineral dealer’s licence option. Fill the prescribed forms (commonly Form A-27 / L-10 for the licence or the equivalent for the permit). Upload all supporting documents in digital format.
Pay the Application Fee
Pay the non-refundable application fee through the portal’s payment system. Fees typically start from a few thousand shillings depending on the category.
Ministry Review and Possible Inspection
The application is reviewed. Officials may inspect the proposed premises for security and suitability.
Approval and Payment of Licence Fees
Once approved, pay the annual licence fee and any stamp duty or registration charges. Submit an acceptance letter if required.
Issuance of the Licence
The mineral dealers licence Kenya is issued digitally (PDF) and may also be available in hard copy. It is valid for the calendar year and expires on 31 December.

The Cabinet Secretary is required to decide on a complete application within 30 days, although practical timelines often range from several weeks to a few months depending on document completeness and volume of applications.

Fees for a Mineral Dealers Licence Kenya

Fees vary by mineral category and whether you apply for a full licence or a permit. Typical annual figures include:

Application fees: often KSh 2,000 – KSh 5,000 (higher for processing licences)
Mineral Dealers (Trading) Licence annual fees: from KSh 20,000 for certain precious stones up to higher amounts (e.g., KSh 200,000+) for precious metals
Mineral Dealers Permit: lower annual fees starting around KSh 5,000 – KSh 20,000 depending on mineral type

Always confirm the exact current schedule on the official portal, as regulations can be updated.

Validity, Renewal and Compliance Obligations

The licence runs for one calendar year and must be renewed before it expires (ideally before 30 November). Holders must keep accurate records of all transactions, submit required reports through the cadastre, and comply with anti-money-laundering and traceability rules. Failure to comply can result in suspension or cancellation.

Practical Tips When Applying for a Mineral Dealers Licence Kenya

Ensure every document is current and correctly formatted before uploading.
Secure suitable, lockable storage premises in advance.
Budget for professional assistance (lawyers or consultants familiar with the cadastre system) if you are new to the process.
Keep copies of all payments and correspondence.

For the most authoritative and up-to-date information, refer directly to the State Department for Mining and the published Mining (Dealings in Minerals) Regulations.

Related Support from Buy Gold Bars Kenya

Once licensed, many dealers focus on gold trading. Buy Gold Bars Kenya Ltd is a licensed gold dealer offering certified products and related services. Begin at the homepage to explore options. Learn about the company on the About page, review services including sourcing and export support, or visit the shop for available bars.

Additional useful pages include the FAQ, guidance on how to buy gold bars in Kenya legally, current gold bar prices in Kenya, and how to buy gold in Kenya. Specific products such as the 100g gold bar illustrate transparent offering. The company also provides insights relevant to compliant dealers operating in the Kenyan market.

Conclusion – Start Your Application and Partner with Trusted Operators

Knowing how to obtain a mineral dealers licence Kenya equips you to operate legally and confidently in the country’s mineral trade. From registering on the Mining Cadastre Portal to meeting documentation and fee requirements, the process is structured and fully online.

If you are preparing to trade gold or other minerals once licensed, or simply want reliable market information and certified products, visit Buy Gold Bars Kenya Ltd. Explore our platform, review the guidance and product pages, and contact us for transparent, fully documented support. Take the next step today and build your mineral dealing activities on a solid legal foundation.