Thinking of starting a hustle or launching a legit company? Whether you’re offering services or selling products, you need to register your business in Jamaica. Here’s the complete 2025 step-by-step guide to get you legal and operational.
🏢 Where Do You Register a Business?
Business registration is handled by the Companies Office of Jamaica (COJ). You can register online or in person at their main office or parish drop-off locations.
📋 Choose Your Business Structure
- Sole Trader – easiest and most common for self-employed
- Partnership – for 2 or more owners
- Limited Liability Company (LLC) – more formal setup for growth & legal protection
📝 Step-by-Step: How to Register a Sole Trader Business
- Go to orcjamaica.com
- Click “Electronic Business Registration Form”
- Search for your business name to make sure it’s available
- Fill in business type, owner info, and TRN
- Pay the registration fee (JMD $2,500 for sole traders)
- Download your Business Name Certificate once approved
🧾 Documents You May Need
- Valid government-issued ID
- TRN (personal)
- Proof of address (utility bill or letter)
- Business name idea(s)
💼 Extra Steps for LLCs or Partnerships
If you’re registering a company (LLC) or partnership:
- You’ll need Articles of Incorporation (template available on the COJ site)
- You must appoint a company secretary and list directors
- Fees start at JMD $24,000+
💻 Can You Register Online?
Yes — COJ now offers full online business registration via the eBRF platform. You can search names, submit documents, and pay online using credit/debit card.
📦 After You Register
- Open a business bank account (you’ll need your certificate)
- Apply for a business TRN (if required)
- Get a Tax Compliance Certificate (TCC) if bidding for contracts
✅ Pro Tips
- Choose a simple, memorable business name
- Always use your legal name on forms if registering as a sole trader
- Check for name conflicts with other companies online
📌 Conclusion
Registering your business in Jamaica is easier than ever — especially with the new online system. Whether you’re starting small or aiming big, this guide gets you from idea to legal in no time. For more guides on Jamaican entrepreneurship, click here.
