Jamaica Company Formation and Registration 2025

General Information

• Jamaica encourages foreign direct investment, and its laws do not typically discriminate between local and foreign investors.
• Foreign investors can establish and own business enterprises in Jamaica.

Business Structures

• Limited Liability Company (LLC): Offers liability protection.
• Public Limited Company (PLC): Can offer shares to the public.
• Branch of a Foreign Company: An extension of the foreign parent company.
• Subsidiary of a Foreign Firm: Operates as a separate legal entity in Jamaica.
• Partnership: (General and Limited)

Registration Process

1. Name Reservation:
   • Conduct a name search at the Companies Office of Jamaica (COJ) to ensure name availability.
   • Reserve the chosen name with the COJ.
2. Preparation of Incorporation Documents:
   • Draft the Articles of Incorporation.
   • Provide a registered office address.
   • Submit details of directors and shareholders.
3. Submission of Registration Application: Submit the required documents to the Companies Office of Jamaica (COJ).
4. Obtain a Taxpayer Registration Number (TRN).
5. Register for National Insurance and Statutory Deductions.
6. Open a Corporate Bank Account.
7. Obtain Business Licenses and Permits (If Required).
8. File Annual Returns and Maintain Compliance: Companies must file annual returns and financial statements with the COJ.

Companies Office of Jamaica (COJ)

• The COJ is responsible for registering local and overseas companies, individuals, and firms carrying on business in Jamaica.
• The COJ aims to facilitate ease of doing business in Jamaica.

Important Legal Considerations

• The Companies Act of 2004 governs company registration.
• Jamaica permits 100% foreign ownership for both legal and natural persons.
• Branches of foreign companies must register with the Companies Office of Jamaica and may need to appoint local representatives.
• Subsidiaries operate as separate legal entities, similar to domestic companies.

Other Relevant Points

• Businesses operating in Jamaica must comply with Jamaican taxation laws.
• The government offers tax incentives to encourage foreign investment, such as those within Special Economic Zones.
• Jamaica has double taxation treaties with several countries.