How to Register a Business in Jamaica (2026)
Sole trader or limited company? The Companies Office process, the fees, and how long it takes.
By Michael T for OurJa
Whether you're launching a small side hustle or incorporating a full limited liability company, Jamaica has a clear registration process managed by the Companies Office of Jamaica (COJ).
Which Structure Should You Choose?
| Feature | Business Name (Sole Trader) | Limited Liability Company |
|---|---|---|
| Personal liability | You are personally liable for debts | Limited to your investment |
| Cost to register | ~J$4,000 | ~J$20,000-J$50,000+ |
| Complexity | Simple | More complex |
| Annual filing | Required | Required |
| Tax filing | Personal income tax | Corporate income tax (25%) |
| Best for | Freelancers, small vendors | Formal businesses, investors |
Option 1: Registering a Business Name (Sole Trader)
If you are a freelancer, vendor, contractor, or running a small business as an individual, registering a Business Name under the Registration of Business Names Act is usually sufficient.
What You Need
- TRN
- Valid National ID or passport
- Proposed business name (have 2-3 alternatives)
- Business address in Jamaica
- Description of business activity
Steps
- Check if your business name is available using the COJ name search at www.orcjamaica.com
- Download and complete Form A (Registration of Business Name) from the COJ website
- Submit the completed form and required documents at a COJ office or via the online portal
- Pay the registration fee (approximately J$4,000; confirm the current fee with COJ)
- Receive your Certificate of Registration, usually within 3-5 business days
Option 2: Incorporating a Limited Liability Company
A private limited liability company (Ltd.) provides legal separation between you and the business. Recommended if you plan to take on investors, employ multiple staff, or operate in a regulated industry.
What You Need
- TRN for all directors and shareholders
- ID for all directors and shareholders
- Proposed company name (at least 2 alternatives)
- Memorandum and Articles of Association (COJ standard templates available)
- Registered office address in Jamaica
- Minimum 1 director (must be a person, not a company)
Steps
- Search the COJ database to confirm your company name is available
- Reserve the company name at COJ (optional but recommended)
- Prepare the Memorandum and Articles of Association
- File Form 1 (Company Registration) with all required documents
- Pay the registration fee (basic company with J$1M authorised shares: ~J$20,000)
- COJ will review and approve. Standard processing takes 5-10 business days
- Receive your Certificate of Incorporation
After Registration
Once registered, you have ongoing obligations:
- Register with TAJ to file income tax and pay GCT if your annual turnover exceeds J$10 million
- Register with NIS as an employer if you hire staff
- File annual returns with COJ
- Keep proper accounting records
Tip: The Companies Office online portal (www.orcjamaica.com) handles name searches, filings, and annual returns. You don't have to visit an office for many processes.
Costs Summary (2026)
| Item | Approximate Cost |
|---|---|
| Business Name registration | ~J$4,000 |
| Company name reservation | ~J$1,500 |
| Company incorporation (basic) | ~J$20,000-J$35,000 |
| Annual return filing (company) | ~J$5,000-J$15,000 |
| GCT registration | Free |
Warning: Fees change periodically. Always verify the current amount with COJ before your visit. Operating an unregistered business can result in fines.
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