Starting a business in Jamaica is more straightforward than many think. Whether you’re on the island or part of the Jamaican diaspora looking to invest back home, the registration process follows clear steps. Here’s a full breakdown of how to register a business in Jamaica—from idea to legal operation.
Step 1: Decide Your Business Structure
There are three main types of business entities in Jamaica:
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Sole Trader – One person owns and operates the business.
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Partnership – Two or more people share ownership.
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Company (Limited Liability Company) – A separate legal entity, ideal for growing businesses or seeking investment.
Tip: For simple operations or side hustles, a sole trader might suffice. For scaling, protecting personal assets, or attracting investors, register a limited liability company.
Step 2: Choose and Reserve Your Business Name
Use the Companies Office of Jamaica (COJ) Name Search Tool to check if your desired business name is available. If it’s unique and not too similar to an existing business, you can reserve it.
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Visit: https://www.orcjamaica.com
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Create an account
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Submit a Name Reservation online
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Pay the applicable fee (approx. JMD $2,000)
Note: You have 90 days to register your business once the name is reserved.
Step 3: Prepare Your Documents
The documents you’ll need depend on your business type:
For Sole Trader or Partnership:
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Business Name Registration (BN1) Form
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Valid ID (passport, driver’s licence, or national ID)
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TRN (Taxpayer Registration Number)
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Proof of address
For Companies:
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Articles of Incorporation (Form 1A)
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Business Registration Form (BRF1)
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Directors’ and company secretary details
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Registered office address
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TRNs for all directors/shareholders
Step 4: Submit Application and Pay Fees
You can submit your registration online or in person at the Companies Office.
Fees (as of 2025):
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Sole Trader: JMD $2,500
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Partnership: JMD $3,000
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Company: Starts at JMD $24,000 (includes stamp duty and other fees)
Payment methods:
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Online via credit card
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In person via cash, debit card, or manager’s cheque
Step 5: Collect Your Business Documents
Once approved, you’ll receive:
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Certificate of Registration (for Sole Traders and Partnerships)
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Certificate of Incorporation and Company Number (for Companies)
Processing time:
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Online: 2–3 business days
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In person: 4–5 business days
Step 6: Register for Taxes and NIS/NHT
Regardless of business type, you must register with:
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Tax Administration Jamaica (TAJ) for:
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GCT (General Consumption Tax), if applicable
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PAYE, if hiring employees
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National Insurance Scheme (NIS)
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National Housing Trust (NHT)
Tip for diaspora: You can assign a local representative or use a lawyer to complete these steps if you’re overseas.
Step 7: Open a Business Bank Account
Bring the following to your chosen Jamaican bank:
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Certificate of Registration/Incorporation
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TRN
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Valid ID
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Proof of address
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Company documents (for limited liability companies)
Some banks may require an in-person interview or a reference letter. Check their specific requirements.
Step 8: Get Any Necessary Licences or Permits
Depending on your business type, you may need:
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Health permits (for food businesses)
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Tourism licenses (for accommodations, tours)
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Import/export licenses (for trading goods)
Check with the relevant government ministry or the Jamaica Business Development Corporation (JBDC) for guidance.
Extra Notes for the Jamaican Diaspora
If you live abroad:
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You can register your business online via the COJ’s website.
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You can appoint a local agent or business consultant to act on your behalf.
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Consider opening a Jamaican bank account early to make transactions easier.
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Contact JAMPRO (Jamaica Promotions Corporation) for investment support and incentives.
Final Thoughts
Registering a business in Jamaica is a manageable process, and online tools have made it easier than ever for locals and diaspora alike. Whether you’re starting a small online boutique or launching a full-scale company, following these steps will get you on legal and solid footing.
