Registering a company in Jamaica is a straightforward process that involves selecting a company type, choosing a name, preparing documentation, and registering with the COJ, TAJ, NIS, and NHT. By following this guide and utilizing the provided resources, you should be well on your way to successfully establishing your business in Jamaica.
Step 1: Choose your company type
The first step in registering a company in Jamaica is to choose the type of company you want to register. The most common types are:
- Private Limited Company (Ltd)
- Public Limited Company (Plc)
- Partnership
- Sole Proprietorship
Step 2: Choose a company name
Before registering your company, you'll need to choose a suitable name. The Companies Office of Jamaica (COJ) has guidelines for acceptable names, which can be found at this link: https://www.orcjamaica.com/NameSearch.aspx
Step 3: Prepare the required documents
Next, prepare the necessary documentation for your chosen company type. The key documents are:
- Articles of Incorporation (for Ltd and Plc)
- Form 1A - Declaration of Compliance (for Ltd and Plc)
- Form 17 - Notice of Situation of Registered Office (for Ltd and Plc)
These forms can be downloaded from the COJ's website: https://www.orcjamaica.com/Forms.aspx
Step 4: Identify company officers and shareholders
You will need to identify at least one director and a company secretary. Directors must be at least 18 years old. Shareholders can be individuals or corporate entities.
Step 5: Register your company
Once your documents are ready, you can submit your application to the COJ, either online through the COJ's Electronic Business Registration Form (eBRF) system: https://www.orcjamaica.com/eBRF.aspx or in person at the COJ office. The fees for registering a company are as follows:
- Ltd: JMD$24,000 (approximately $160)
- Plc: JMD$30,000 (approximately $200)
Step 6: Obtain a Taxpayer
Registration Number (TRN) After your company is registered, you must obtain a Taxpayer Registration Number (TRN) for your company from the Tax Administration Jamaica (TAJ). This can be done online or in person at a local TAJ office. Visit the TAJ's website for more information: https://www.jamaicatax.gov.jm
Step 7: Register for taxes and social security
Once you have a TRN, you must register for General Consumption Tax (GCT), if applicable, and PAYE (Pay As You Earn) for employee income tax. Additionally, you must register with the National Insurance Scheme (NIS) and the National Housing Trust (NHT). Visit the TAJ and the Ministry of Labour and Social Security websites for more information:
- TAJ: https://www.jamaicatax.gov.jm
- Ministry of Labour and Social Security: http://www.mlss.gov.jm
Time-frame:
The entire registration process, from preparing documents to receiving your Certificate of Incorporation, can take anywhere from 5 to 15 working days, depending on the chosen method of submission and the complexity of your application.
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