DOING BUSINESS IN GUYANA Guyana Revenue Authority 2025 www.gra.gov.gyGRA’s Checklist Application and Registration Guide
TABLE OF CONTENTS Introduction Individual Taxpayer Identification Number Requirements Business Registration Company Taxpayer Identification Number Requirements for obtaining a Liability Letter from the Guyana Revenue Authority eServices Registration Business and Tax Compliance Submission of Income Tax Returns 01 02 03 04 05 06 07 08 Guyana Revenue Authority
TABLE OF CONTENTS Books and Records Property Tax Measures VAT Registration Malt Liquor and Wine Licence Renewal Trade Licence Second Class Off-Liquor Licence Returns Submission and Deadline 09 10 11 13 14- 21 12- 15 16 17- 18 20- Guyana Revenue Authority
TABLE OF CONTENTS Withholding Tax on Non-Resident Companies Payment Methods Business Closure Checklist Contact Us 25 27- 28 Guyana Revenue Authority 22 24- 29
INTRODUCTION Establishing and operating a business in Guyana requires careful adherence to the country’s legal and regulatory framework. Whether you are a local entrepreneur, foreign investor, or self-employed professional, understanding the procedures for registration, licensing, record keeping, filing returns and payment of tax; taxation is important for maintaining compliance and ensuring smooth operations. This guide provides an overview of the key requirements and processes involved in setting up and managing a business in Guyana as it relates to the Guyana Revenue Authority’s (GRA’s) procedures. It covers the steps for obtaining various licences—including trade, liquor and specialised permits— alongside the obligations for tax registration, record-keeping and timely submission of returns. It also outlines the responsibilities of businesses when engaging non-resident contractors, the procedures for closing a business and the penalties for non-compliance. By following the outlined procedures and maintaining accurate records, individuals and organisations can operate confidently within the legal framework, contribute to national revenue and build sustainable ventures in Guyana’s growing economy. Guyana Revenue Authority TAX REGISTRATION, OBLIGATIONS AND LICENSING REQUIREMENTS 1
Individuals, Partnerships and Companies are required to register for a Taxpayer Identification Number (TIN) with the Guyana Revenue Authority . Guyana Revenue Authority Complete TIN Registration Form G0015 Provide valid ID (Passport/National ID) Submit proof of local address (utility bill, bank statement, or mail) Include Testimony Form (if applicable) Submit Power of Attorney and ID (if applying on behalf of someone) Provide Marriage Certificate or Deed Poll (if applicable) If address is not in your name, submit: A copy of the ID of the address holder Testimony Form Proof of address INDIVIDUAL TAXPAYER IDENTIFICATION NUMBER (TIN) REQUIREMENTS Business Registration - If Self-Employed GRA Headquarters or Regional Tax Offices Central Registration Unit and Compliance Unit Email: IRTOSecretariat@gra.gov.gy Online: GRA TIN Portal 2
BUSINESS REGISTRATION Completed Taxpayer Registration Form (Organisation) Certificate of Business Registration A Valid Form of Identification for each partner (Passport, National Identification Card) Taxpayer Identification Number (TIN) for each individual partner Deeds and Commercial Registries Authority: Address: Lot 1 High and Commerce Streets, Georgetown Phone: 592-225-4358 PARTNERSHIP TIN REQUIREMENT Guyana Revenue Authority A Self-Employed Individual, Partnership or Company must first register their business with the Deeds and Commercial Registry and obtain a Business registration or Articles of Incorporation respectively. 3
COMPANY TIN REQUIREMENTS Guyana Revenue Authority Completed Taxpayer Registration Form Copy of the Articles of Incorporation and Certificate of Registration A valid form of identification (Passport or National ID) for two (2) Directors or a Director and Secretary COST FOR TIN CERTIFICATE New Applicant G$1,000.00 Re-print of Certificate G$2,000.00 Processing Time One (1) day COMPANY TAXPAYER IDENTIFICATION NUMBER (TIN) REQUIREMENTS 4
Requirements for obtaining a Liability Letter from the GRA for the purpose of obtaining a Work Permit Guyana Revenue Authority Complete Compliance Application Form Submit passport (original + copies of all stamped pages) Provide Marriage Certificate or Deed Poll (if applicable) Obtain Letter from Ministry of Home Affairs REQUIREMENTS Ministry of Home Affairs: Address: Lot 6 Brickdam, Georgetown Phone: (592)-226-2444 Non-resident persons seeking employment in Guyana must apply for a work permit. A liability Letter for this purpose is obtained from the Guyana Revenue Authority. (First time applicants can apply for their liability letter (Work Permit Letter) via the GRA Optimal Portal when applying for their Taxpayer Identification Number (TIN) 5
ESERVICES REGISTRATION Guyana Revenue Authority Taxpayer Identification Number (TIN) REQUIREMENTS FOR ESERVICES REGISTRATION You can register for eServices with the Guyana Revenue Authority To register go to eservices@gra.gov.gy You can also file returns and obtain up-to-date tax information of your account. Valid Identification (Passport, National Identification Card) Active email address and Contact Number. For assistance or Queries, Kindly contact eServices Unit Smyth And Princes Streets, Georgetown Telephone#: 225-5061/225-5062 EXT:2204 WhatsApp: 707-9843 | 707-9844 6
INCOME TAX RATES 25% for income Balance of Income greater than or equal to G$3,120,000 35% Balance of Income less than G$3,120,000 BUSINESS AND TAX COMPLIANCE Guyana Revenue Authority Register business with GRA using Business Registration Pay quarterly advance tax on or before April 1, July 1, October 1, December 31 Submit annual tax return by April 30Every person who operates a business in Guyana is required to pay taxes and file returns to become tax compliant. Income tax shall be payable on the income of any person accruing in or derived from Guyana or elsewhere. Individuals’ Obligations Maintain proper accounts and records 7
SUBMISSION OF INCOME TAX RETURNS Guyana Revenue Authority Balance Sheet and Profit and Loss Statement (as prepared by an Accountant/Tax Preparer (optional) Financial Statement Summary as provided by the Guyana Revenue Authority detailing the Balance Sheet and Profit and Loss and Statement. Loss Relief Schedule (if applicable) Wear and Tear Schedule (if applicable) Mortgage Interest Relief (MIR) Form 4 (if applicable) SELF EMPLOYED PERSONS Self-Employed individuals are required to submit an Individual Income Tax Return each year. The following supporting documents must be attached to the return: Medical and Life Insurance Statement (if applicable) Child Declaration (if applicable) 8
All purchases All gross receipts and gross sales All sums received or expended and the related transactions Allowances for wear and tear on plant, machinery, equipment, or buildings used in the business All bank accounts and statements for the relevant period All assets and liabilities, including details of debtors and creditors Retained Records for at least eight (8) years after the transaction is completed Records must be available for inspection by the Commissioner- General upon requestBOOK AND RECORDS Businesses are legally required to maintain proper accounts and records of income and expenses such as: All bank statements, held at any bank 9
PROPERTY TAX PROCEDURES Guyana Revenue Authority Calculate Net Property value as of the valuation date. File Property Tax Return by April 30. If absent from Guyana, appoint a local agent and provide their contact details. FILE PROPERTY TAX RETURN IF NET PROPERTY IS GREATER THAN OR EQUAL TO G$40M PROPERTY TAX RATES First G$40M Nil Next G$20M 0.5% Remainder 0.75% 10
Guyana Revenue Authority Apply for mandatory VAT Registration if turnover of your taxable supplies is greater than or equal to G$15M Apply for voluntary VAT Registration if Turnover is below G$15M and meets the following criteria: Proper accounting records Fixed business location Taxable supplies Reliable return submission VAT Application Requirements Completed TIN Application Form Articles of Incorporation Valid ID of Director/Secretary A person who carries on taxable activity is required to apply for Value - Added Tax (VAT) registration. VAT Registration is categorised as being mandatory or voluntary. VAT REGISTRATION 11
Guyana Revenue Authority VAT Certificate must be prominently displayed Charge and remit fourteen percent (14%) VAT File monthly VAT returns (due: 21st of each month) Maintain proper records VAT OBLIGATIONS Register for PAYE with GRA if employing staff - Notify the Commissioner - General, in writing, of the commencement date of registration. Deduct taxes and submit Form 5 monthly (due: 14th). Submit annual Form 2 by February 28. REGISTER AND REMIT EMPLOYEE TAXES Issue Emolument Slip (Form 7B) to employees by February 28. Ensure employees file tax returns by April 30, of each year. PAYE EMPLOYER REGISTRATION OBLIGATION 12
MALT LIQUOR AND WINE Completed application form Valid ID Approved premises plan (signed by relevant authorities) Transport or Tenancy Agreement and Affidavit of Consent Guyana Revenue Authority WHO NEEDS THIS LICENCE? Businesses such as beer gardens, bars, and shops selling malt or wine for on-premises consumption. Fire Certificate Business Registration or Articles of Incorporation Safety and Sanitary Certificates Trade Licence Recent Police Clearance (issued within the last six (6) months) Washroom facilities and fire extinguisher on premises 13
Guyana Revenue Authority PROCEDURES Document Submission: Submit all required documents to the counter clerk at the relevant licensing office. Initial Review: Clerk checks the completeness and accuracy of the application. Inspection Scheduling: A date is set for inspection of the proposed premises. Site Inspection and Interview: Two (2) officers from the Tax Management and Licensing (TML) section visit the location, conduct an interview and inspect the premises. Report and Approval: Inspection report is submitted to the Commissioner for review and approval. Licence Issuance: Once approved, the applicant is contacted to pay the fee and collect the licence. APPLICATION FEE Payable upon submission G$3,000.00 14
LICENCE RENEWAL Completed renewal application form Previous year’s licence Valid ID (Passport, National ID or Driver’s Licence) Updated Business Registration Guyana Revenue Authority REQUIRED DOCUMENTS Valid Sanitary Certificate Valid Drug Certificate (if selling Over-The-Counter drugs) Trade Licence [existing Businesses] 15
TRADE LICENCE Completed application form Valid ID (Passport, National ID or Driver’s Licence) Approved premises plan (signed by): Guyana Revenue Authority REQUIRED DOCUMENTS Approval from Toshoas (if applicable) Copy of transport or Tenancy Agreement and Affidavit of Consent from property owner Fire Certificate from Guyana Fire Service Sanitary Certificate from M&CC or RDC [Supermarkets] Required for operating any store, shop, stall, shed or yard in urban or rural Guyana. Central Housing and Planning Authority (CH&PA) Neighbourhood Democratic Council (NDC), Mayor and City Council (M&CC), Regional Democratic Council (RDC) Guyana Fire Service Sanitary Department 16
TRADE LICENCE Updated Business Registration or Articles of Incorporation Food Handler’s Certificate (for food establishments) Guyana Revenue Authority REQUIRED DOCUMENTS Drug Certificate from Poison Control Board (for pharmacies/supermarkets selling OTC drugs) Licensed Pharmacist Certificate (for businesses selling prescription drugs) [Supermarkets] 17
SECOND CLASS OFF-LIQUOR LICENCE Two (2) completed application forms Valid ID (Passport, National ID or Driver’s Licence) Guyana Revenue Authority REQUIRED DOCUMENTS Payment receipt for application fee Approved premises plan (signed by): Authorises the sale of spirituous liquor, wine, or malt liquor not to be consumed on the premises. Bulk storage, mixing or blending is prohibited. Central Housing and Planning Authority NDC, M&CC or RDC Guyana Fire Service Sanitary Department Approval from Toshoas (if applicable) 18
SECOND CLASS OFF-LIQUOR LICENCE Copy of Transport or Tenancy Agreement, Affidavit of Consent from property owner Guyana Revenue Authority REQUIRED DOCUMENTS Fire Certificate from Guyana Fire Service Sanitary Certificate from M&CC or RDC Updated Business Registration or Articles of Incorporation Valid Trade Licence Recent Police Clearance (issued within the last six (6) months) 19
SECOND CLASS OFF-LIQUOR LICENCE Selling area must be completely sealed off from the remainder of the building (walls from floor to roof, including windows) Guyana Revenue Authority STRUCTURAL REQUIREMENTS Minimum area of 120 square feet (inclusive of counter, selling area, and storage) Only one (1) entrance, leading directly to the road Counter must include a flap-over door for convenience LICENCE FEE Payable upon approval G$3,000.00 20
Guyana Revenue Authority Tax Type Due Date Income Tax Return April 30 each year Property Tax Return April 30 each year VAT Returns 21st day of each month PAYE Form 5 14th day of each month PAYE Form 2 February 28 each year Quarterly Advance Tax (Self- Employed) April 1, July 1, October 1, December 31 Quarterly Advance Corporation Tax (Companies) March 15, June 15, September 15, December 15 RETURNS SUBISSION AND PAYMENT DEADLINES 21
WITHHOLDING TAX ON NON-RESIDENT COMPANIES Guyana Revenue Authority WHAT IS WITHHOLDING TAX? Withholding Tax is a form of Corporation Tax levied at ten percent (10%) on payments made to non-resident companies for contracts, services, or goods supplied in Guyana. NON-RESIDENT COMPANY A company managed and controlled outside Guyana, regardless of whether it is incorporated locally. Defined as a corporate body or un-incorporated, excluding partnerships. WHAT IS TAXED? Gross payments made under any contract undertaking (no deductions allowed). Includes: Supply of goods (wares, merchandise, articles, etc.) Services or work (construction, manufacturing, repairs, cleaning, etc.) Subcontracts as part of larger projects 22
WITHHOLDING TAX ON NON-RESIDENT COMPANIES Guyana Revenue Authority WHO MUST DEDUCT AND REMIT THE TAX? The payer (local business, organization, or individual) is responsible for: Deducting 10% withholding tax from payments Remitting the tax deducted to the Guyana Revenue Authority (GRA) within 30 days of payment PAYMENTS TO LOCAL BRANCHES Payments made to a branch or office in Guyana of a non-resident company are treated as payments to the non-resident company and are still subject to withholding tax. NON-RESIDENT COMPANIES’OBLIGATIONS Must file tax returns in Guyana Can claim credit for taxes withheld from contract payments 23
Guyana Revenue Authority DOUBLE TAXATION TREATY WITHHOLDING TAX RATES Payment Canada United Kingdom Caricom Member States United Arab Emirates Royalty 10% 10% 15% 10% Management Fees 10% 10% 15% 5% Technical/ Professional Fees 10% 10% 15% 5% Interest 15% 15% 15% 0% Dividend 15% 10% or 15% * 0% 10% * 10% of the gross amount of the dividends if the beneficial owner is a company, which controls, directly or indirectly at least 10% of the voting power in the company paying the dividends or 15% of the gross amount of the dividends in all other cases. PENALTIES FOR NON-COMPLIANCE If the payer fails to deduct and remit the tax: They must pay the original tax amount plus a penalty equal to the tax due The Commissioner-General may prevent a non-resident from leaving Guyana if suspected of attempting to defraud the revenue. Standard Rate of Withholding Tax (WHT) : twenty percent (20%). WHT is applicable on all payments and Distribution except on payments to the countries mentioned in the schedule below: WITHHOLDING TAX ON NON- RESIDENT COMPANIES 24
PAYMENT METHODS Guyana Revenue Authority Taxpayers are encouraged to utilise alternative payment facilities offered: REPUBLIC BANK GUYANA LTD MOBILE MONEY GUYANA WESTERN UNION’S BILL EXPRESS DEMERARA BANK LIMITED WIRE TRANSFER 25
PAYMENT METHODS Guyana Revenue Authority The following are the banking information to make wire and electronic transfer payments of duties and taxes to the Guyana Revenue Authority: INTERNATIONAL Beneficiary : Guyana Revenue Authority Address : 200-201 Camp Street, Georgetown, Guyana Account Number: 0162500447001 (Official GRA Internal Revenue) Bank: Bank of Guyana Swift Code GUBAGYGG CORRESPONDENT BANK Bank’s Name: Citibank New York, New York Bank’s Address: 111 Wall Street, New York, New York. 10043, SA Swift Code: CITI US 33 Name of Account: Bank of Guyana Account No.: US A/c 3614 9894 ABA#: 021000089 26
PAYMENT METHODS Guyana Revenue Authority LOCAL Beneficiary : Guyana Revenue Authority Address : 200-201 Camp Street, Georgetown, Guyana Account Number: 962-356-544-639 Bank: Republic Bank Beneficiary : Guyana Revenue Authority Address : 200-201 Camp Street, Georgetown, Guyana Account Number: 001009740015 Bank: GBTI Beneficiary : Guyana Revenue Authority Address : 200-201 Camp Street, Georgetown, Guyana Account Number: 4019170 Bank: Demerara Bank Limited Notifications of payments should include, Taxpayer Identification Number, Tax Type, Period and Proof of Payment. This information should be sent to bankpayments@gra.gov.gy and copied to tinniss@gra.gov.gy and mballiram@gra.gov.gy. 27
BUSINESS CLOSURE CHECKLIST Guyana Revenue Authority Maintain all business records even after closure Notify the Guyana Revenue Authority (GRA) Update or cancel registration details Records must be retained for at least eight (8) years Include financial statements, tax filings and transaction logs Inform of the change in business status (closure) Inform of change in Business Name Submit any final tax returns or outstanding payments Business registration VAT registration (if applicable) 28
CONTACT US:Phone Number Guyana Revenue Authority BRANCH OFFICES OFFICE NUMBERS EXT ADDRESS Corriverton 339-2819 729-3800 -3807 Lot 80, Calcairn, Skeldon, Corriverton, Berbice New Amsterdam 333- 4898/2513/3220/2073/ 2955/3524/ 727-3600 - 3608 & 3610 Lot 8 Ferry St. & Esplande Rd. , New Amsterdam, Berbice Linden 444-2918 / 444-2905 732-4100 - 4106 Casaurina Drive, Watooka, Linden Anna Regina 771-4176/5267 726-3500 -3504 Takuba Lodge, Anna Regina, Essequibo Bartica 445-3202/3205/3207 725-3400 - 3404 Lot 15 Fifth Avenue , Bartica Parika 260-4044 -4046 724-3300 -3404 Lot 164 & 166 Parika, EBE Mabaruma Nil 734-4300-4302 Mabaruma Compound Lethem 772-2257, 2258,2263,2264 &2265 733-4200 /4201 Industrial Estate, Lethem Onverwagt 328-3117/3118 735-2000-10/2020- 2033 MMA / ADA Compound ,Onverwagt Village, West Coast Berbice Mahdia 444-2918 / 444-2905 732-4100 - 4106 GRA Sub Office, Mahdia Police Station, Region Eight, Potaro-Siparuni 29
GUYANA REVENUE AUTHORITY 227-8222, EXT. 1037 www.gra.gov.gy taxadvisory@gra.gov.gy 200-201 Camp Street, Georgetown, Guyana