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).
Next Steps
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.
