#taxes · 1 year ago

How to Apply for a TRN in Jamaica from Overseas

How to Apply for a TRN in Jamaica from Overseas photo jamaica

If you are a Jamaican citizen living overseas and need to apply for a Taxpayer Registration Number (TRN), the good news is that it is possible to do so without physically being in Jamaica. The TRN is a unique identification number assigned to individuals and businesses for tax purposes in Jamaica. It is required for various transactions, including opening a bank account, applying for a loan, or conducting any form of business in Jamaica. In this article, we will outline the steps to apply for a TRN from overseas.


Step 1: Gather Required Documents

Before you start the application process, you will need to gather the following documents:

  1. A valid government-issued photo identification document such as a passport or driver's license.

  2. A certified copy of your birth certificate.

  3. A letter from your employer or proof of income.

  4. Proof of address, such as a utility bill or a bank statement.

  5. A completed TRN application form, which can be downloaded from the Tax Administration Jamaica (TAJ) website.

Note that all documents must be certified by a notary public or a Justice of the Peace (JP).

Step 2: Submit Application Online

Once you have gathered all the required documents, you can submit your TRN application online through the Tax Administration Jamaica (TAJ) website. Follow these steps to complete the application:

  1. Go to the TAJ website at www.jamaicatax.gov.jm.

  2. Click on the "Taxpayer Registration (Individual)" link.

  3. Read the terms and conditions, and click "Accept" if you agree to them.

  4. Fill out the online application form with the required information.

  5. Upload copies of the certified documents.

  6. Review your application and submit it.

  7. Pay the application fee online using a credit or debit card.

Note that the application fee is JMD 5,000, which is approximately USD 35. The application fee is non-refundable, so make sure that you have all the required documents and information before submitting your application.

Step 3: Receive TRN Confirmation

After submitting your TRN application, you should receive a confirmation email within five business days. The email will contain your TRN number and instructions on how to activate it. You will need to activate your TRN within 90 days of receiving the confirmation email.

To activate your TRN, you will need to log in to the TAJ website and follow these steps:

  1. Click on the "Activate TRN" link.

  2. Enter your TRN number and date of birth.

  3. Create a username and password.

  4. Choose and answer three security questions.

  5. Verify your email address and phone number.

  6. Review and accept the terms and conditions.

  7. Click "Activate."

Once you have activated your TRN, you can start using it for various transactions in Jamaica.

Tips and Advice

  1. Make sure that you have all the required documents before starting the application process. Any missing documents could delay the processing of your application.

  2. All documents must be certified by a notary public or a Justice of the Peace (JP). Check with your local Jamaican consulate or embassy for a list of certified notaries or JPs in your area.

  3. Pay the application fee online using a credit or debit card. Make sure that you have sufficient funds to cover the fee.

  4. After submitting your TRN application, keep a copy of the confirmation email and TRN number for your records.

  5. Activate your TRN within 90 days of receiving the confirmation email. Failure to do so could result in the cancellation of your TRN application.

Applying for a TRN in Jamaica from overseas may seem daunting, but with the right documents and following the steps outlined above, it is a straightforward process. Remember to gather all required documents, submit your application online, and activate your TRN within 90 days of receiving the confirmation email. With your TRN, you can conduct various transactions in Jamaica, such as opening a bank account or applying for a loan. So, don't let distance be a hindrance to getting your TRN. Follow the steps outlined above, and you'll be on your way to obtaining your TRN in no time.