Setting up a small business in Jamaica, like most Government related activities can be pretty challenging. You need to complete and submit copious amounts of paper work and make several treks between Downtown and New Kingston to visit various offices, that common sense should dictate be close to each other.

Likewise in true "Third World" fashion don't expect much in terms of directions, advice and or explanations to quote the Director of Companies of Jamaica, the body responsible for registering business names and incorporating companies Ms. Judith Ramlogan "Our company is not obligated to provide information about our services to our clients".

Despite such arrogance and stupidity, do not be discourage, I have compile the Jamaican Cheat Sheet: Small Business to help you find your way.

Registering your Business

First stop is the Companies of Jamaica website where you can download and print the form you require, depending on your needs. What they may or may not tell you though is that:

Expiration of your certificate does not mean cancellation, you continue to owe the Government for all renewals until the name is cancelled. Keep in mind you might also be audited for taxes though your business is defunct.

Also need to walk with 3 passport size pictures and your TRN number and remember the registration fee.

Companies of Jamaica
1 Grenada Way
Kingston
Tel: 876-908-4419-26

National Insurance Scheme (NIS)

Download your relevant NIS form here and complete and drop off at the NIS office.

Walk with two 2 passport size pictures signed by a JP, and your birth certificate.

National Insurance Scheme
18 Ripon Road
Kingston 5
Tel: 876-929-7144-6