Submit through digiGov https://digigov.govt.lc/
CHOOSING A NAME:
Your Business Name is the name under which you will conduct business.
Be Creative in choosing a name! Here are some tips:
- Be creative and distinctive. Avoid copying or closely resembling another registered business name, as this will result in rejection.
- The words “Incorporated”, “Limited” and “Corporation” and their abbreviations “Inc.”, “Ltd.” and “Corp” are reserved for companies incorporated under the Companies Act. Therefore, they cannot form part of your business name.
- Avoid using only general words that are merely indicative of the nature of business, for example, “Real Estate Services” or “Hair and Nail Salon”.
- Using initial on their own as a business name is not advisable. It restricts others from using the same initials.
- Do not use scandalous or offensive terms. They are restricted by law.
- Domain names cannot be registered as business names, for example, Mags beauty.com
- Avoid excessive special characters such as @, # and $.
- The use of the word “Saint Lucia”/St. Lucia” requires consent of the Government of Saint Lucia. A letter from the relevant government minister must be submitted with the business name search form.
Steps to Getting Your Business Name Registered
Before You Start:
- You must be at least 18 years old.
- Have a clear idea of your desired business name.
Step 1: Access digiGov
- Visit https://digigov.govt.lc.
Step 2: Log in or Register
- Create a new account if you do not already have one.
- Log in with your credentials.
Step 3: Find the Name Search Service
- Navigate to “Services”.
- Search for “Business Name Search”
Step 4: Complete the Name Search Application
- Enter the required details accurately.
- Avoid using prohibited or restricted terms (e.g., “Inc.”, “Ltd”, offensive words).
Step 5: Submit the Application
- Submit the Application online via Digigov.
Step 6: Wait for Approval
- Wait for the Registrar’s review.
- Approved names are reserved for 30 business days.
Step 7: Register the Business on Digigov
- Apply to register the business within the 30-day reservation period.
- If you miss the period, conduct a new name search.
Tips & Reminders:
- Name must not conflict with existing registered names.
- Business name search service is free.
- Processing usually takes 2-3 business days.
Steps to Register an Approved Business Name on DigiGov Saint Lucia
Step 1: Register the Business Name
1. Log in to your DigiGov account.
2. Navigate to the “Business Services” section.
3. Select “Business Registration”.
4. Complete the online application form with the necessary details.
5. Submit the form for processing.
** Ensure all information is accurate to avoid delays in processing.
Cost: EC$125.00 application fee
Note:
- The Statutory Declaration must be signed by a Justice of the Peace and a $2.50 stamp is required on submission of the documents at the Registry.
- There is a 28-day period (stipulated by law) from the date of commencement of your business within which to register your business name. Please check the commencement date on your application to ensure that you are within the stipulated time frame. If you are not, you will require a second statutory declaration from S.E.D.U. or your Attorney.
Step 2: Make Payment
1. Upon submission, you will receive an invoice with a Bill ID.
2. Choose your preferred payment method:
- Online Payment: Pay using a debit/credit card (MasterCard or Visa).
- Over-the-Counter Payment: Print the invoice and pay at any Treasury location.
- Walk-in Services: Visit the Registry to apply and make payments for services. A Service Bureau Agent will assist you.
Step 3: Receive Your Certificate
- Processing Time: Typically, two (2) business days.
- Upon approval, you will receive your Certificate of Registration. Kindly submit all original documents, in duplicate, upon collection of the Business Certificate. Please note that the certificate will not be issued without originals.