Where to go:
- Companies Office of Jamaica (COJ), 6 Market Street, Kingston
- Or register online at orcjamaica.com
Timeline: 1-3 business days
Step 2: Get Your Taxpayer Registration Number (TRN)
2 Register with Tax Administration Jamaica (TAJ)
Every business in Jamaica needs a TRN for tax purposes. If you already have a personal TRN, you'll need a separate business TRN.
Documents Required:
- Business Registration Certificate (from Step 1)
- Valid government-issued ID
- Proof of address (utility bill)
- Completed TRN application form
Where to go: Any Tax Administration Jamaica (TAJ) office or online at jamaicatax.gov.jm
Timeline: Same day (in person) or 2-3 days (online)
Step 3: Register for GCT (If Applicable)
3 General Consumption Tax Registration
If your business earns over $10 million JMD per year, you must register for GCT and charge 15% on goods/services.
Even if you're below the threshold, you may voluntarily register to claim input tax credits on business purchases.
Where: Tax Administration Jamaica (same visit as TRN)
Step 4: Open a Business Bank Account
4 Separate Business Finances
Keep your business and personal finances separate. This is essential for accounting, taxes, and professionalism.
Documents Needed:
- Business Registration Certificate
- TRN Certificate
- Valid ID
- Proof of address
- Initial deposit (varies by bank)
Popular Banks for Business Accounts:
- NCB - Most branches, good digital banking
- Scotiabank - Good for international transactions
- JMMB - Competitive fees
- First Global Bank - Small business focus
$0 - $5,000 JMD
Account Opening (varies by bank)
Step 5: Get Necessary Permits & Licenses
5 Industry-Specific Requirements
Depending on your business type, you may need additional permits:
Common Permits & Licenses:
- Food handlers permit - Required for restaurants, food businesses (Public Health Department)
- Liquor license - For bars, restaurants serving alcohol
- Trade license - For retail businesses (Parish Council)
- Professional license - Doctors, lawyers, accountants, etc.
- Beach license - For beach-related businesses
- Tourism license - For tour operators (Jamaica Tourist Board)
💡 Pro Tip
Visit your local Parish Council office to find out exactly which permits you need for your specific business type and location.
Step 6: Set Up Your Online Presence
6 Get Your Business Online
In 2025, having an online presence isn't optional—it's essential. 72% of customers research businesses online before making a purchase.
Essential Online Setup:
- Professional Website - Your 24/7 digital storefront
- Google Business Profile - Appear in local searches (FREE)
- Social Media - Instagram, Facebook for your industry
- WhatsApp Business - Easy customer communication (FREE)
Need a Professional Website?
We build websites for Jamaican businesses starting at $499. Get online in 2 weeks.
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Total Startup Costs Summary
📋 Startup Cost Checklist
- Business Name Registration: $4,000 - $6,000 JMD
- TRN Registration: FREE
- GCT Registration: FREE
- Business Bank Account: $0 - $5,000 JMD
- Permits & Licenses: $5,000 - $50,000 JMD (varies)
- Website: $75,000 - $250,000 JMD
- Business Cards & Marketing: $10,000 - $30,000 JMD
Estimated Total: $100,000 - $350,000 JMD for basic business setup (excluding inventory, equipment, and rent).
25 Small Business Ideas in Jamaica
Now that you know how to register your business in Jamaica, here's what to do next:
- Write a simple business plan - Even one page helps clarify your goals
- Start the registration process - Don't wait for perfect conditions
- Set up your online presence - We can help with this
- Open for business!
Questions about starting your business? WhatsApp us and we'll point you in the right direction.
