Starting a business in Jamaica requires registering with several government agencies. This guide walks you through each step, from choosing a business structure to getting your GCT registration.
Step 1: Choose Your Business Structure
Jamaica offers several business structures. Your choice affects taxes, liability, and paperwork requirements.
Best for: One-person businesses, freelancers
Pros:
- Simplest to set up
- Lowest cost
- Complete control
Cons:
- Personal liability for debts
- Limited growth potential
Registration Fee: ~J$3,000
Best for: Growing businesses, multiple owners
Pros:
- Limited liability protection
- More credible to clients/banks
- Can issue shares
Cons:
- More paperwork
- Annual filing requirements
Registration Fee: ~J$15,000-25,000
Step 2: Register Your Business Name
Register your business name with the Companies Office of Jamaica (COJ).
For Sole Proprietors:
- Visit the COJ office or their online portal: www.orcjamaica.com
- Search to ensure your name is available
- Complete the Business Name Application form
- Pay the registration fee (~J$3,000)
- Receive your Certificate of Registration
For Limited Companies:
- Reserve your company name first (J$500)
- Prepare Articles of Incorporation
- Submit incorporation documents
- Pay incorporation fees (~J$15,000-25,000)
- Receive your Certificate of Incorporation
- Valid government-issued ID (Passport, Driver's License, National ID)
- Proof of address (Utility bill, bank statement)
- TRN (can apply simultaneously)
- Completed application forms
Step 3: Get Your TRN (Taxpayer Registration Number)
Every business needs a TRN for tax purposes. Apply at any Tax Administration Jamaica (TAJ) office.
How to Apply:
- Visit a TAJ office with your documents
- Complete the TRN application form
- Submit required documents:
- Business registration certificate
- Valid ID
- Proof of address
- Receive your TRN card (usually same day)
Step 4: Register with NIS (If You Have Employees)
If you plan to hire employees, register as an employer with the National Insurance Scheme (NIS).
Registration Process:
- Visit the Ministry of Labour and Social Security
- Complete the Employer Registration form
- Provide your TRN and business registration
- Receive your NIS Employer Number
Step 5: Register for GCT (If Applicable)
You must register for GCT if your annual taxable supplies exceed J$10 million. You can voluntarily register even if below the threshold.
Benefits of Voluntary Registration:
- Claim input tax credits on business purchases
- Appear more professional to larger clients
- Required by some clients for doing business
How to Register:
- Complete the GCT Registration form at TAJ
- Provide your TRN and business documents
- Receive your GCT Registration Number
Step 6: Get Required Permits and Licenses
Depending on your business type and location, you may need additional permits:
Trade License
Required for most businesses operating in a specific parish.
Where: Parish Council/KSAC
Food Handler's Permit
Required for food businesses.
Where: Ministry of Health
Fire Certificate
Required for commercial premises.
Where: Fire Brigade
Industry-Specific Licenses
Tourism, finance, etc. have special requirements.
Where: Relevant regulatory body
Total Registration Costs
| Item | Sole Proprietor | Limited Company |
|---|---|---|
| Business Name / Incorporation | ~J$3,000 | ~J$15,000-25,000 |
| TRN Registration | Free | Free |
| GCT Registration | Free | Free |
| NIS Employer Registration | Free | Free |
| Trade License (varies by parish) | ~J$5,000-15,000 | ~J$5,000-15,000 |
| Estimated Total | ~J$8,000-18,000 | ~J$20,000-40,000 |
After Registration: Set Up Your Business Systems
Once registered, you'll need systems to run your business. VEDTECH gives you everything in one place:
- Professional invoicing with GCT calculated automatically
- Accounting and bookkeeping
- Inventory management
- Payroll with PAYE, NIS, NHT built-in
- CRM to track customers and leads
- Reports for TAJ filing
No credit card required. Start running your business the right way from day one.
Useful Links
- Companies Office of Jamaica (ORC)
- Tax Administration Jamaica (TAJ)
- Ministry of Labour and Social Security (NIS)
- Jamaica Business Development Corporation (JBDC)