If you’re thinking of starting a small business in Jamaica—whether it’s a hair salon, delivery service, catering hustle, or even a TikTok merch store—registering as a sole trader is one of the easiest and most affordable ways to make it official.
In this 2025 step-by-step guide, we’ll walk you through everything you need to know to register as a sole trader in Jamaica.
💼 What Is a Sole Trader?
A sole trader is the simplest type of business structure. It means one person owns and operates the business. You don’t need a board of directors, fancy legal documents, or a partner. You’re in full control.
This structure is ideal for:
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Freelancers
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Vendors
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Contractors
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Hairdressers/barbers
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Drivers
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Content creators
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Shop owners
The best part? It’s cheap and easy to set up.
✅ Benefits of Registering as a Sole Trader
Registering your business has some serious upsides:
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✅ Legal recognition for your business
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✅ Easier to open a business bank account
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✅ Builds trust with clients
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✅ Access to government contracts and financing
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✅ You can legally operate and scale your brand
Even if you’re already running your hustle, making it official opens doors—especially for growth in 2025 and beyond.
🧾 What You Need to Register as a Sole Trader
Before visiting the Companies Office of Jamaica (COJ), make sure you have:
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Your full name and TRN
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Proposed business name (unless using your real name)
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Business address (can be your home if allowed)
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Business description – what your business does
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Valid ID (Driver’s Licence, Passport, or National ID)
💡 If you’re using your full legal name as the business name (e.g. “Jason Brown Plumbing”), you may not need to register a business name separately.
🏢 Where to Register Your Sole Trader Business
You can register in person or online through the Companies Office of Jamaica (COJ):
🔗 Online: https://www.orcjamaica.com
📍 In-person: 1 Grenada Crescent, Kingston 5, or at any COJ parish office
💸 How Much Does It Cost?
As of 2025, the cost to register as a sole trader in Jamaica is:
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J$2,500 for name reservation (optional if using legal name)
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J$3,000 for business name registration
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Total: Around J$3,000–J$5,500 depending on if you reserve a name first
You’ll also need to renew your business name registration every 3 years.
📝 Step-by-Step: How to Register as a Sole Trader in Jamaica
Step 1: Decide on a Business Name
Choose a unique name that reflects your business. Avoid names that are too similar to existing companies.
Use the Name Search Tool on the COJ website to check if your business name is available.
Step 2: Reserve Your Business Name (Optional)
You can reserve your name online or in person to ensure no one else grabs it. Name reservation lasts for 90 days and costs J$2,500.
Step 3: Complete the Registration Form
Use the BN1 form for sole trader registration. You can download it from the COJ website or fill it out in person.
The form will ask for:
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Your name & TRN
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Business name & address
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Nature of the business
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Start date
Step 4: Submit Your Application
Submit your completed form with a valid ID and pay the fee. You’ll get a receipt as proof.
If registering online, scan your documents and upload them to the portal.
Step 5: Collect Your Certificate
Processing usually takes 3–5 working days. You’ll receive a Certificate of Business Name Registration—this proves your business is legal.
🏦 After Registration: What to Do Next
Once you’ve registered, you can:
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✅ Open a business bank account
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✅ Register for GCT (if earning over J$10M annually)
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✅ Start marketing your business online
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✅ Apply for government funding, JBDC programs, or grants
📌 Common Questions About Sole Trader Registration
Q: Can I operate without registering?
Technically, yes—but you’ll miss out on opportunities like contracts, bank loans, and legitimacy.
Q: Can I use my home as my business address?
Yes, if it’s legal for that type of business and approved by your landlord or community.
Q: What if I want to hire employees?
You can! But you’ll also need to register with NHT, NIS, and HEART as an employer.
Q: Can I change my business name later?
Yes, but you’ll need to re-register with COJ and pay a small fee.