Starting a business in Barbados involves several key steps, focusing on registration and compliance with various government agencies. While the process can be complex, many applications can be submitted online.
Here is a general guide on how to do business in Barbados:
1. Choose Your Business Structure
The first step is to decide what type of legal entity your business will be. The most common structures include:
- Sole Proprietorship/Sole Trader: Simplest to form, but you are personally liable for all business debts. Requires registration of a business name (if you don’t use your own name).
- Partnership: Two or more individuals agree to share in the profits or losses of a business. Partners have unlimited personal liability. Requires a signed partnership agreement.
- Limited Liability Company (LLC) or Company: A separate legal entity from its owners (shareholders), offering limited liability. This often requires consulting an Attorney-at-Law and involves more formal filings.
2. Business Registration and Incorporation
All businesses must register with the Corporate Affairs and Intellectual Property Office (CAIPO).
- Name Reservation: For companies or a business using a name other than the owner’s, you should first apply for a name search and reservation with CAIPO.
- Filing Documents:
- Sole Proprietorship/Partnership: File the application for business name registration (Form I under the Business Names Act).
- Limited Company: File Articles of Incorporation, a Notice of Directors, and a Notice of Address of Registered Office (often Forms 1, 9, and 4), along with a name reservation (Form 33). This typically requires a local registered address and a corporate secretary.
3. Register with Tax and Social Security Authorities
After registering your business entity with CAIPO, you need to register with the main financial and employment agencies:
- Barbados Revenue Authority (BRA): Register to obtain your Tax Identification Number (TIN). You will need an Employer’s Income Tax number.
- Value Added Tax (VAT): If your projected annual turnover will exceed the threshold (currently BBD $200,000/year), you must also register for VAT.
- National Insurance Department (NID): Register as an employer to receive an employer’s national insurance number. You must make contributions for yourself (if self-employed) and for any employees.
4. Obtain Necessary Licenses and Permits
Depending on your industry, you may require additional licenses from other ministries or agencies:
| Industry/Activity | Required License/Permit | Issuing Authority |
| Retail/Selling Liquor | Retail Licence or Liquor Licence | District Court |
| Food Processing, Restaurant, Salon, Child/Elderly Care | Operating Licence | Ministry of Health & Wellness |
| Development/Construction | Approval/Permit | Town and Country Development Planning Office |
| Travel Agency/Tour Operator | Licence | Ministry of International Transport |
| Playing Loud Music/Entertainment | Permission (often in addition to an Entertainment Licence) | COSCAP and the local Police Station |
| International Business | Foreign Currency Permit (if 100% of income is in foreign currency) | International Business Unit |
5. Additional Key Considerations
- Bank Account: Open a corporate bank account with a local bank in Barbados.
- Work Permit: If you are not a citizen or permanent resident of Barbados and plan to work in the business, you must apply to the Barbados Immigration Department for a work permit.
- Intellectual Property: You should also register your business’ trademark or brand name with CAIPO.
- Customs & Excise: If you plan to import raw materials or equipment, contact the Customs & Excise Department for requirements and to request any potential duty concessions.
Disclaimer: This is a general guide, and specific requirements can change or vary based on the nature of your business. It is highly recommended to consult with a local attorney or business consultant in Barbados to ensure full compliance with all current laws and regulations.