Purpose
Provide a realistic, high-level timeline to plan business formation and initial operations in CARICOM member states. Timelines are indicative and vary by country, sector, and readiness of documentation.
Context & Assumptions
- Applies to startups and SMBs with standard commercial activities.
- Excludes regulated sectors that add licensing time.
- Assumes documents can be gathered and authenticated in parallel.
Indicative Timeline
Weeks 1–2: Planning & Structure
- Select legal structure and target jurisdiction(s).
- Check name availability and activity permissions.
- Identify director/agent/office requirements.
Weeks 3–5: Registration Filing
- Reserve name (if required) and prepare formation documents.
- Authenticate foreign documents (apostille/consular) if needed.
- File incorporation/registration with national authority.
Weeks 4–7: Tax & Banking Setup
- Obtain tax number; register for VAT/GST if thresholds or sector rules apply.
- Register payroll if hiring.
- Begin banking KYC/AML and open operating accounts; align FX needs.
Weeks 5–8: Licensing (If Applicable)
- Apply for sector licenses/permits and schedule inspections where required.
- Align invoicing and contracts with VAT/tax and licensing conditions.
Weeks 6–10: Go-Live Preparation
- Finalize contracts, pricing, and logistics.
- Train staff; validate invoicing and tax processes.
- Establish compliance calendar for returns, renewals, and filings.
Next Steps
- Legal structure: https://www.omadudu.com/docs/business-formation/caricom/legal-structure
- Registration: https://www.omadudu.com/docs/business-formation/caricom/registration
- Tax considerations: https://www.omadudu.com/docs/business-formation/caricom/tax-considerations
- Cross-border operations: https://www.omadudu.com/docs/business-formation/caricom/cross-border-operations
Disclaimer
Timelines are indicative and vary by country, sector, documentation quality, and government processing times. Always verify local requirements, fees, and processing timelines with the relevant authorities, and engage qualified legal, tax, and sector advisors in the specific CARICOM jurisdiction before scheduling critical milestones.