In order to propel Guyana into the new millennium, it is imperative that the nation equips itself with the requisite human resources. This will ensure that Guyana is properly positioned to play its rightful role on the world stage.

As a small nation with an estimated population of 800,000, Guyana's development was tremendously affected in the past by the scourge of the ‘brain-drain’. So much so, that it is generally said that there are more Guyanese nationals resident outside of Guyana than in the country.

The Government of Guyana recognizes that all Guyanese, whether they are resident overseas or in Guyana, whether they are skilled or unskilled, have a meaningful contribution to make in the reconstruction and development of this prodigious land.

In recent years, we have been witnessing the return of many Guyanese to these shores. In February 1993, the responsibility for remigration matters was reassigned from the Office of the President to the Ministry of Foreign Affairs. From that time to the end of June 1997 the Ministry has approved some 1353 applications for remigrant status. Among those who have returned are persons who have since established small businesses and manufacturing concerns, rice and other farmers, doctors, lawyers, engineers, teachers and students.

The magnitude of the demand for up-to-date information on the generous concessions offered by Government to remigrants, necessitated the publication of this booklet, which attempts to fill an information void on the measures Government has put in place to facilitate the smooth transition and resettlement of remigrants. A sound understanding of the information provided herein should greatly minimize unrealistic expectations and help to remove perceived difficulties in remigration.

It is my hope that the many Guyanese who have expressed a desire to return home will find this Remigrant’s Information Manual useful. Finally, I take this opportunity to welcome you home.

Clement J. Rohee
Minister of Foreign Affairs.

Over the past four decades, significant numbers of Guyanese have made their homes in other countries. It is in recognition of this reality that the Government of Guyana has put certain measures in place to attract Guyanese back home.

Today, Guyana is clearly a country on the move. A country that is showing remarkable progress. Under the stewardship of His Excellency the late President, Dr. Cheddi Jagan, Guyana’s Real GDP grew by 8.3 percent in 1993, 8.5 percent in 1994 (the highest in Latin America and the Caribbean), 5.1 percent in 1995 (a drop from the targeted 6.3 percent because of the industrial disaster at the Omai Gold Mines Ltd) and 7.9 percent 1996. Consequently an Inter-American Development Bank newsletter described Guyana as a "small country with big economic ambitions" and "a shining example of a country on its way back from the abyss."

Overseas-based Guyanese who choose to return home will soon discover that it is an exciting period in Guyana’s national life. Guyanese citizens, whether born at home or abroad, or by naturalization, are invited to assist in the development of this great land of Guyana.

It is the wish of the Government to attract as many Guyanese back home since each and every Guyanese has a meaningful contribution to make in the reconstruction and development of this country. In this regard, it is hoped that this Remigrant’s Information Manual will serve as a useful guide.

Welcome home fellow Guyanese.

A remigrant is a Guyanese citizen born at home or abroad, or a Guyanese citizen by naturalization, who is in possession of a valid Guyana passport and who has been granted remigrant’s status by the Ministry of Foreign Affairs on the understanding that the remigrant will remain in Guyana for not less than three years.

A person to be so approved must be 18 years old and over and must have legally resided abroad for no less than four consecutive years for the ordinary remigrant and three years for the returning graduate student.

No person who has been granted duty free concessions as a remigrant during the past ten years would be approved as a remigrant.

It should also be clearly understood that no deportee would be approved as a remigrant.

The prospective remigrant should visit the Remigration Officer, at the Protocol and Consular Department of the Ministry of Foreign Affairs in New Garden Street, Georgetown, within three months of his/her resettlement in Guyana for an interview.

The prospective remigrant is advised to bring along the following documentation:

1. Current and previous passports.

2. Certified copies of Annual Income Tax declarations for each of the last four years resident overseas.

3. The returning student should produce letters from the respective educational institution(s) he/she attended while abroad confirming the duration of his/her study at the institution(s).

4. Documentary evidence of means of earning a living in Guyana.

The prospective remigrant must swear to a statutory declaration that he/she will reside in Guyana for no less than three years.

A person who has been approved as a remigrant by the Ministry of Foreign Affairs must then visit the Ministry of Finance on Main and Urquhart Streets, Georgetown, to be granted duty free concessions.

It should be noted that whereas the Ministry of Foreign Affairs approves remigrant status, the actual granting of duty free concessions is done by the Ministry of Finance.

A person who has been approved as a remigrant by the Ministry of Foreign Affairs must then visit the Ministry of Finance on Main and Urquhart Streets, Georgetown, to be granted duty free concessions.

It should be noted that whereas the Ministry of Foreign Affairs approves remigrant status, the actual granting of duty free concessions is done by the Ministry of Finance. The remigrant is advised to take the following documentation to the Ministry of Finance:

1. A complete and quantified list of the items on which concessions are requested.

2. The registration/certificate of title of the vehicle confirming ownership by the remigrant for a period of no less than six months.

3. A certificate from the dealer confirming the engine capacity of the vehicle.

4. A letter from the Guyana Telephone and Telegraph Company (GT&T) stating that any telephone/fax machine on which the remigrant is seeking duty free concessions is compatible with the system operated by the GT&T.

5. A permit from the National Frequency Management Unit (NFMU) in respect of operations of any satellite dish on which the remigrant is seeking duty free concessions.

6. A permit from the Commissioner of Police to use/import any firearm/ammunition on which the remigrant is seeking duty free concessions.

IMPORTANT NOTE

To obtain duty free concessions, the remigrant must complete an application form and also swear to a statutory declaration before a Commissioner of Oaths to Affidavits (See Appendices I and II).

It is recognized that a prospective remigrant family may include a non-Guyanese spouse and children.

This should not be construed as a barrier to remigration, since a non-Guyanese spouse and children will enjoy the benefits of the concessions granted to the Guyanese national.

In cases where the prospective remigrant has renounced his/her Guyanese nationality in order to obtain citizenship in the country where he/she currently resides, he/she should not despair since he/she remains eligible for remigrant status.

The prospective remigrant with questions pertaining to renunciation of Guyanese nationality is advised to contact the Remigration Officer at the Protocol & Consular Department, Ministry of Foreign Affairs, in Georgetown, or the Remigrant’s Information Desk at the nearest overseas Mission of the Republic of Guyana.

Every effort will be made to address your queries in a prompt manner.

NOTE ON REMIGRANTS FROM VENEZUELA

Persons returning from Venezuela having been identified by officers of the Customs and Excise outposts as bona fide Guyanese remigrants, may be accorded by such officers, exemption from payment of all customs taxation on personal and household effects of a value not exceeding G$250,000. Duty would have to be paid on any excess value.

Over the past four decades, significant numbers of Guyanese have made their homes in other countries. As a result, the Ministry of Foreign Affairs has established Remigrants’ Information Desks at its overseas Missions (see Appendix IV).

At each Mission an officer is designated to assist prospective remigrants. You are invited to visit the nearest Mission for clarification on any aspect of your return to Guyana.

If there is no Guyanese diplomatic or consular Mission in the country where you reside, please feel free to contact by way of telephone, fax of letter, the Remigration Officer at the Protocol and Consular Department, Ministry of Foreign Affair, Guyana. The Remigration Officer will be there to assist you with your queries.

If you are in Georgetown prior to your remigration, you are encouraged to visit the Remigration Officer for any information you may require.

It is the wish of the Government of Guyana to make your transition back home as smooth and trouble free a process as possible. Your comments and suggestions are therefore most welcome.

The remigrant is granted duty free concessions on personal and household effects and tools of trade in reasonable quantities. Personal and household effects include domestic and electrical appliances but do not include liquor, foodstuff, construction materials or fixtures (see Appendix III).

"Tools of trade" are defined as: "That type and amount of instruments, tools, equipment, devices and machinery as would be usually used in the normal course and scope of a person's profession, trade or occupation without utilizing additional labor." It should be noted that tools of trade do not include vehicles.

The concessions granted on personal and household effects and tools of trade are subject to the payment of a 5% customs duty.

VEHICLES

A remigrant, who is 18 years of age and over, is allowed duty free concessions on one motor vehicle as follows:-

1. On a motor car up to 2,000 in engine cylindrical capacity (cc) - subject to payment of the 5% customs duty.

2. On a motor car with engine cylindrical capacity exceeding 2,000 - subject to payment of the pro-rated customs duty, consumption tax and purchase tax on the excess of engine cylindrical capacity over 2000. (This means that if a remigrant is importing a 3,000 cc motor car, a remission of all three taxes is granted on the 2,000 cc and payment of all three taxes would have to be made on the excess 1000 cc).

3. On vans and 4x4 vehicles, such as jeeps and pick-ups, up to 4,5000 cc - subject to payment of the 5% customs duty.

IMPORTANT NOTE

No concessions would be granted on trucks and on vehicles exceeding 4500 cc, except in the case of motor cars which enjoy partial concessions as stated.

Upon receipt of the remission letters issued by the Secretary to the Treasury relative to the clearing of personal and household effects and a vehicle by the remigrant, the undermentioned procedures must be adhered to before the clearance of goods could be effected.

The remigrant should contact a licensed customs broker (see Appendix VII for list of customs brokers in Guyana) to have his/her customs entry document prepared. It is advised that the remigrant should have the following documents in his/her possession:

1. Certificate of registration of vehicle.

2. Bill of lading or delivery order.

3. Evidence of value, if any, of vehicle.

4. Letter from Secretary to the Treasury.

The remigrant should proceed to the appropriate transit shed/wharf for the purpose of having his/her personal and household effects and vehicle examined to ascertain the quantity and value of goods imported. A valuation letter from an authorized local agent (e.g. Beharry Automotive is the local agent for Toyota vehicles) is required to assist in arriving at the cost, insurance and freight (CIF) values of the vehicle.

After carrying out the above mentioned examination, the entry document should be returned to the customs broker who would then fill out the duty paid section of the document. The entry document along with valuation letter, bill of lading or delivery order and certificate of registration must be taken and lodged at the receiving window of the Customs and Excise Department, which is located at 34 Main Street, South Cummingsburg, Georgetown. A reference number would be issued. If the consignment is made up of personal and household effects, the documents should be taken to the Entry Processing Unit. On the other hand, if the consignment includes a vehicle, the documents should be taken to the Valuation Section to ascertain the correct computed CIF value of the vehicle and personal and households effects.

After these formalities have been completed, the entry document should then be taken to the cashier where the concessional duties would be paid. The entry document would be returned to the importer who takes it to the transit shed/wharf to effect the delivery of the goods.

Extensions

It is imperative that each remigrant understands that the approval letter issued by the Ministry of Finance for the granting of duty free concessions has a validity period of six months only, as from the date of issue. An extension may not necessarily be granted. It is therefore in the interest of the remigrant to ensure that the items listed in such a letter are cleared within the time frame of the validity period of his/her letter.

Additional Items

Requests for concessions on items additional to those already included in a letter issued to a remigrant by the Ministry of Finance may not necessarily be approved. The remigrant ought therefore to ensure that all items intended to be imported are included in the list submitted to the Ministry of Finance.

Duty and Taxes on Motor Cars Exceeding 2000 cc

A remigrant should avoid importing a motor car that is more than 2000 cc unless he/she is absolutely certain that he/she can afford to pay the partial customs duty, consumption tax and purchase tax on same, since such amounts can be quite prohibitive even when the duty free concessions granted are considered.

An example is provided below:

On a motor car of 3000 cc for which the Customs and Excise Department has accepted the taxable value as being G$1,500,000:

• 1/3 of Customs Duty of 45% - G$225,000
• 1/3 of Consumption Tax of 30% - G$172,500
• 1/3 of Purchase Tax of 70% - G$442,750
• Total taxes payable - G$8540,250

In registering his /her vehicle, the remigrant should fill out and present the prescribed application form to the licence revenue officer.

Forms may be obtained from and presented to the Licence Revenue Division's Head Office, which is located at Smyth and Princes Street, Georgetown, or any of the Licence Revenue Division offices countrywide.

Remigrants are advised that the following documents must be presented to the Licence Revenue Officer.

1. Copy of duty free letter from the Secretary to the Treasury.

2. Customs entry document per motor vehicle.

3. Temporary insurance of motor vehicle.

4. National identification such as national ID card, passport or driver's licence.

To complete the registration process the remigrant must then pay the required fees, and collect his/her receipts for Certificates of Registration and Licence.

Remigrants wishing to import live animals and/or birds into Guyana should first contact the Veterinary Authority, Ministry of Agriculture, Animal Services Division at Regent & New Garden Streets, Georgetown, Guyana, or the Regional Veterinary Officer of the respective regions of Guyana to ascertain in the first place:-

1. If the particular species of animal/bird is accepted into Guyana.

2. If the import of animals/birds is at all permitted from the country in question.

If the importation of live animals/birds is allowed, a written permit, under the hand of the Veterinary Authority or any veterinarian so authorized by him/her, will be issued detailing the health requirements and other conditions that are to be met by the exporting country.

The permit should then be sent to the veterinary authority of the exporting country who will then inform the importer if the requisite conditions/requirements can be satisfied.

If these cannot all be satisfied, the Veterinary Authority in Guyana will then decide whether the animal(s) or bird(s) will be accepted under the circumstances.

Applications for import licences for the importation of live animals/birds into Guyana, where necessary, should be submitted to the Animal Services Division of the Ministry. Four copies are required. Approval licences and an import permit (animal health requirements) will be returned to the applicant within three (3) days after submission. Only then should importation arrangements be made.

Animals/birds arriving in Guyana must be accompanied by a veterinary health certificate duly signed by the veterinary authority of the exporting country or by any other veterinarian so authorized. The certificate should be issued immediately before departure or within two (2) days of departure of the animals/birds. The veterinary authority of Guyana must be notified of any impending arrival at least twenty-four (24) hours prior to entry so that arrangements could be made for veterinary examination on arrival at the port of entry. All animals/birds must be examined by a veterinarian at the port of entry.

All dogs and cats (except those arriving from Australia, the United Kingdom, New Zealand, Republic of Ireland, Antigua & Barbuda, Dominica, Jamaica, Montserrat, St. Kitts/Nevis, St Lucia, St. Vincent & the Grenadines and Barbados or any other country known to be free of rabies) will be quarantined for a period of at least three (3) months. Other carnivores will be similarly treated unless circumstances dictate otherwise.

The imposition of quarantine in any form other than in the case of rabies, will be entirely at the discretion of the veterinary authority and will be influenced by the pattern of disease prevailing in the area of origin, at the time of export.

IMPORTANT NOTE

Remigrants who wish to import live animals/birds are advised to pay careful attention to the above notice if they are to be saved financial loss, embarrassment and possible anguish, at ports of entry into Guyana.

A. LAND

In filing an application for land for development purposes, the remigrant is first required to identify the land he/she is interested in. He/she may seek assistance from the staff of the Lands and Surveys Department to determine the availability of unencumbered land.

The remigrant is expected to file his/her application on the prescribed form of the Lands and Surveys Department which can be obtained at 22 Upper Hadfield Street, Georgetown, or any of the Lands and Survey regional offices countrywide.

If the acreage applied for is greater than 40 acres, then a developmental plan must be submitted by the remigrant along with his/her application form. In the event that the land applied for is in excess of 500 acres the remigrant would be required to prepare a project document (which is more detailed than the 40 acres developmental plan) and present the document along with the application form to the Commissioner of Lands and Surveys for submission to the Special Land Application Committee for consideration.

After the application has been filed, field investigations would be executed and a comprehensive report would be submitted to allow the Land Selection Committee to peruse the application and submit recommendations The applicant will then be invited to attend an interview with the Land Selection Committee. Thereafter, recommendations would be submitted to the Minister of Agriculture for approval and issue of title. The remigrant would subsequently be informed of the decision taken.

B. WATER SERVICE

The remigrant should uplift, complete and return a service connection application form to the Guyana Water Authority (GUYWA).

Forms may be uplifted from and returned to GUYWA's Head Office, which is located at 10 Fort Street, Kingston, Georgetown, or any of GUYWA'S offices countrywide.

When the remigrant has returned the completed form to GUYWA, a feasibility study will be done on the remigrant's premises in order to determine whether or not water can be supplied to that premises. He/she will then be informed of the outcome of the feasibility study. If it is positive, the service connection will be given after payment is made by the remigrant to GUYWA.

C. ELECTRICITY SERVICE

The remigrant should uplift, complete and return a service connection application form to the Guyana Electricity Corporation (GEC).

Forms may be uplifted from and returned to GEC's Head Office, which is located at 40 Main Street, South Cummingsburg, Georgetown, or any of GEC's offices countrywide.

To obtain a service connection, the following must be supplied along with the service connection form, to the GEC:-

1. Title to the land if owned; or if rented, tenancy agreement.

2. Valid certificate of inspection from the Government inspectorate.

3. Payment of survey fee.

4. Security deposit as determined by the corporation. This deposit is returnable when your account is closed, provided that it has not been utilized to offset unpaid bills.

5. Where service conductors are required in excess of sixty (60) feet, the cost of the additional wire must be paid for by the remigrant.

6. Where extension works are required such as the erection of poles and extension of primary/secondary mains in order for a connection to be effected, the cost of such works must be met by the remigrant.

7. Where a transformer is required to supply energy to one applicant only, the cost of that transformer will be borne by the applicant.

D. TELEPHONE SERVICE

The remigrant should uplift, complete and return a service connection application form to the Guyana Telephone & Telegraph Company (GT&T). A GT&T's standard application form may be uplifted from and returned to the company's Head Office, which is located at 69 Brickdam, Georgetown, or any of it's business offices countrywide.

When the remigrant has returned the completed form to GT&T, his/her application will be processed. After being assigned a telephone service and telephone number, the remigrant will be billed for the installation charges.

The remigrant is advised that all installation charges should be paid in full at any GT&T business offices. The remigrant should ensure that he/she obtains an official receipt from the Cashier. The remigrant will then be required to enter into a contract with the company for the telephone service.

The following services are offered by GT&T:

1. Telephone, telegraph, telex and telefax services.

2. Cellular, mobile and other radio telephone services.

3. Coastal radio (ship-to-ship)

4. Sale, rental, installation and maintenance of telephone terminal and other communication equipment, excluding broadcast equipment.

6. Lease of transmission facilities for transport of voice data and video signals.

7. Design, construction and installation of private lines and communication networks.

E. A FIREARM LICENCE

The remigrant is advised to make his/her application for a firearm licence to the Police Divisional Commander in the police division in which he/she resides or expect to use the firearm so as to facilitate the quick processing of the application. All applicants must be initially processed by police personnel within the police division.

A copy of the application, together with two (2) recent testimonials must be submitted to the Office of the Commissioner of Police at Force Headquarters, Eve Leary. The application must have the following information:-

1. Full name

2. Date/place of birth.

3. Home address

4. Occupation

5. Type of business

6. Business address

7. Type of firearm required

8. Reason (s) for the use of the firearm

Upon receipt of the application at Force Headquarters, an acknowledgment letter will be sent to the applicant.

Applicants will be required to submit the following prerequisites for the processing of the application:-

1. Evidence of proof of ownership of assets claimed. Such evidence would include, among others, licence, lease and transport.

2. Two (2) recent testimonial (if not submitted with the application).

During the processing of the application, police personnel will visit the premises of the applicant who will also be required to give a statement and have his/her fingerprints taken.

IMPORTANT NOTE

It should be noted that the type of firearm granted to applicants are:-

1. .22, .25 or .32 Pistol/revolver.

2. 12, 16 or 20 Gauge single/double barrel shotgun.

3. 9mm Pistol/revolver, or 357 and higher caliber.

However, category (1) of firearm will only be granted to pilots and special categories of persons as determined by the Commissioner of Police.

All children of remigrants under 16 years of age are expected to attend school.

Children between the ages of 3-5, 5-11 and 12 years old and over would normally be placed in nursery schools, primary schools and secondary schools respectively.

Placement in nursery and primary schools is dependent on the residence of the remigrant and the location of an appropriate school. Placement in secondary schools is determined by the Ministry of Education.

Parents/guardians are advised to contact the Head Teacher of the nursery/primary school in their locality in order to enroll the child in the school.

If the child has not written the Secondary School Entrance Examination (SSEE) and is between 14-16 years of age, he/she will be required to produce his/her records of performance from the educational institution(s) he/she attended while abroad. Placement will be based on records provided. If necessary, the child will be given a test by the Ministry of Education to determine the level at which he/she will be placed.

All parents/guardians are advised to submit the following documents to the Head-Teacher of the school when registering the child.

1. Birth Certificate

2. Immunization Certificate of child.

If for any reason the child is not accepted in the school in the locality, parents/guardians are advised to proceed to the nearest Regional Education Department for recourse. (Each administrative region of Guyana has a Regional Education Department). Parents/Guardians are further advised that if they fail to get action at the regional level they may proceed to meet with the Minister of Education.

IMPORTANT NOTE

1. If the child is of primary school age, even if he/she did not attend nursery school, he/she will automatically be placed in a primary school.

2. If the child was never immunized he/she will be immunized by officials from the Ministry of Health (Guyana).

Guyana has one of the fastest growing economies in the Caribbean and Latin America. The following features make Guyana an attractive location for the remigrant to investment:

1. Substantial and varied natural resources.

2. Competitive tax rates.

3. Low operating costs (competitive wage rates and low-cost factory space).

4. An easily trainable and productive workforce.

5 . Reliable air and sea transport to major cities.

6. Duty-free access for exports to the United States of America, Canada, Europe and CARICOM member countries.

7. Duty and Consumption tax rate of zero on a wide range of machinery and equipment for the productive sector.

8. Duty and Consumption tax rate if zero on most raw materials imported by registered manufacturers.

9. Exemption from tax on dividends (except dividends to non-resident person) and capital gains on disposal of shares in public companies.

10. A free foreign exchange regime including unrestricted repatriation of capital and dividends. 11. A stable political and economic environment.

12. A Government committed to private enterprise.

13. Generous tax holidays.

14. By investing in your country, you are helping to develop it.

Advantageous tax policies, government programs that support private enterprise, low production and operational costs together with an easily trainable work force, the high level of productivity and preferential access to world markets, are but some of the advantages of starting and operating a business in Guyana.

Remigrants have several options open to them in conducting business in Guyana. These include:-

• - Sole proprietorship
• - Partnerships
• - Private companies limited by shares
• - Private companies limited by guarantees (with or without share capital)
• - Branches of foreign companies

Most investors, whether remigrant, foreign or local, find it more appropriate and desirable to establish companies with limited liability.

Foreign investors sometimes elect to operate as a branch of an overseas parent company in which case the name of the operation must be registered with the Registrar of Companies and a place of business must be registered.

ESTABLISHMENT ASSISTANCE

The Guyana Office for Investment (GO-INVEST) located at 190 Camp Street, Georgetown, is the one-stop agency which assists investors to launch enterprises in Guyana. The agency articulates Government's policies on investment and promotes Guyana as an attractive location for investment.

GO-INVEST explains incentives, assists with obtaining work permits, coordinates joint ventures and helps with applications for land and factory space for business ventures, among other things.

SHARE HOLDING

To form a private limited liability company, there must be at least two, and a maximum of twenty, shareholders. There are no restrictions regarding the nationality of the subscribers.

CAPITAL STRUCTURE

The Capital structure may comprise both common and preferred stock. With respect to preferred shares, they are only redeemable by a Court Order.

LEGAL DOCUMENTATION

Two documents must be prepared in order to complete incorporation of a company in Guyana - a Memorandum of Association and the Articles of Association (Corporate By-Laws)

Upon completion of the Memorandum and Articles of Association, they must be submitted to the Registrar of Companies in Guyana. If these are in conformity with the law, a Certificate of Incorporation is issued.

ANNUAL GENERAL MEETING

At least once every year a General Meeting of the shareholders must be held.

ANNUAL LIST OF SHAREHOLDERS

On the fourteenth day following the Annual General Meeting, a list of shareholders must be prepared, setting out names, addresses and occupation of every shareholder as well as the number of shares held.

EXCHANGE CONTROL

There are no restrictions on the movement of foreign currency either in or out of Guyana.

ACCOUNTING SYSTEM

In the operation of a Company, it is necessary to maintain adequate accounts and records in accordance with prescribed regulations. It is recommended that these be established properly at the outset by a professionally qualified accountant. Accounting practice follows the pronouncements of the International Federation of Accountants adopted by the Institute of Chartered Accountants of Guyana.

INCOME TAX

Companies are required to file with the Commissioner of Inland Revenue an audited Balance Sheet and Profit and Loss Statement with an adjusted statement for tax purpose. After assessment the Company has the right to file an objection with the Commissioner of Inland Revenue and eventually to seek redress in the Courts.

TAX ON PROFITS

(I) Corporation Tax

The following are the current rates of Corporation Tax:

• Commercial Companies 45%
• Non Comercial Companies 35%
• Companie Nil

A Commercial company is defined as a company with at least seventy-five percent of the gross income which is derived from trading in goods not manufactured by it and includes any commission agency, any telecommunication company, any body, corporate licensed or otherwise authorized by law to carry on banking business in Guyana and any company carrying on in Guyana insurance business, other than long-term insurance business as defined in section 2 of the Insurance Act.

(ii) Withholding Tax

Where a payment arises to a person not resident or having no permanent establishment in Guyana, the Income Tax Act makes it obligatory on the payer to deduct and pay over tax called withholding tax. The rate of Withholding Tax on distributions and interest is 15% and on other payments is 10%. Withholding tax also applies in the case of residents on dividends paid by a non-resident company and on interest. Dividends paid by a company resident in Guyana to a recipient who is also resident in Guyana are exempt from withholding tax.

INDIVIDUALS

The first G$12,000.00 of the total monthly emoluments paid to employees are exempt from the payment of income tax. Thereafter, a flat rate of 33 1/3% is applicable to every dollar of the excess above the exemption level of G$12,000.00.

Employees pay taxes on a withholding basis: total taxes withheld by employers must be remitted to the Commissioner of Inland Revenue on a monthly basis.

LIQUIDATION OF A COMPANY

Any application to the Court for winding up of a Company must be by petition. This petition may be presented by the Company and/or the creditors and/or the contributories of the Company.

After any petition has been filed for the winding up of a Company the Court may appoint a person or persons to be the liquidator or liquidators of the particular Company.

VOLUNTARY LIQUIDATION

A Company may be wound-up voluntarily on the basis of provision, if any, in the Articles of Association or by extra-ordinary resolution that the Company cannot by reason of its liabilities continue to operate the business.

NOTICE OF CHANGE IN CAPITAL STRUCTURE

Any consolidation, division into a larger number of shares and conversion into stock, must be registered with the Registrar of Companies in Guyana.

PUBLICATION OF NAME

The Company is required to paint or otherwise affix its name on the outside of every office or place in which the business of the Company is being carried on.

DIRECTIONS

The Companies Act does not contain any provision with regard to the qualification of directors.

EXPENSES

It is relatively inexpensive to organize a Company in Guyana. The legal costs, exclusive of professional fees, are as follows:

(I) Registration Fees

The fee for registering a Company ranges from a minimum of G$30.00 (for share capital not exceeding G$50,000.00) to G$240.00 (for share capital over G$50,000.00).

(ii) Stamp Duty

Stamp duty is payable to the Commissioner of Inland Revenue at the rate of 1/4% for authorizes share capital under G$50,000.00 and 1/2% for authorized share capital over G$50,000.00.

DECLARATION

I hereby declare that all particulars given by me above are true and correct.

Signature....................................Date.............

I................................... of.................do hereby declare as follows:

That I am a citizen of Guyana and holder of:

passport No:...........Issued/Renewed by ................on ...... and which expires on .........

with which I traveled to Guyana on ............that I have spent.....years as a Resident/Student of ..............

That I am returning to Guyana to reside.

That I am single/married/divorced/separated/widow/widower

That the name and address of my spouse is .....................................

That I have been employed as ...................................

That my spouse has remigrated/will not be remigration

That I have never received duty free concession nor has my spouse or any other member of my immediate family.

That I, as a remigrant will reside in Guyana for no less than three(3) years, failing which I agree that all duty free concessions granted will become immediately payable.

Signature of Remigrant..............................Date.............

Witnesses
.......................................
.......................................

Sworn before me on .......... at the Ministry of Foreign Affairs Protocol & Consular Affairs Department

ALLOWANCES FOR DUTY FREE IMPORTATION

KITCHEN-(QUANTITY DESCRIPTION)

• 1 Microwave
• 1 Freezer
• 1 Refrigerator
• 100 PCs. Cutlery
• 100 PCs. Crockery
• 300 PCs. Kitchen utensils
• 100 PCs. Glassware
• 1 Mixer
• 1 Blender/osteriser
• 1 Can opener
• 1 Stove
• 1 Juicer
• 1 Washing Machine
• 1 Dryer
• 20 PCs. Detergents
• 1 Ice Cream Maker

DINING ROOM-(QUANTITY DESCRIPTION)

• 1 Table & 8 Chairs
• 20 PCs. Mats
• 1 Chandelier

LIVING ROOM-(QUANTITY DESCRIPTION)

• 2 PCs. Carpet
• 20 PCs. Ornaments
• 2 Television sets
• 1 Video Cassette Recorder
• 1 Sitting Room Suite
• 1 Stereo Set (complete)
• 1 Tape Recorder/Radio
• 200 Video and Audio Cassettes
• 2 Fans
• 50 PCs. Curtains
• 2 Sofa Beds
• 20 PCs. Works of Art, Sculpture, Paintings etc.

BEDROOM-(QUANTITY DESCRIPTION)

• 300 PCs. Linen
• 2 Beds and mattresses per person
• 2 Wardrobes per person
• 2 Vanities per person
• 300 PCs. Clothing per person
• 50 Pairs. Footwear
• 10 PCs. Rugs
• 50 PCs. Toiletries
• 1 Hair Dryer

GENERAL-(QUANTITY DESCRIPTION)

• 1 Camera
• 1 Hose
• 1 Sewing Machine
• 1 Air Conditioner
• 1 Camcorder
• 10 Gals.Paint
• 20 PCs. Sports Equipment
• 20 PCs. Garden Tools
• 1 Vacuum cleaner
• 2 Clocks
• 1 Calculator
• 20 PCs. Stationery
• 2 Irons
• 1 Ironing Board
• 1 Lawn Mower
• 1 Fax Machine (as recommended by GT&T)
• 2 Telephones (as recommended by GT&T)
• 1 Water Pump
• 1 Water Purifier
• 1 Electricity Generator
• 100 PCs.Children’s Toys and Games
• 1 Musical Instrument
• 1 Photocopier
• 2 Typewriters
• 2 Filing Cabinets

The abovementioned list is not intended to be exhaustive and complete and the remigrant would be granted duty free concessions on items not stated in the list, provided that such items can be categorized as being personal and household effects/tools of Trade.

IMPORTANT NOTE

1. Remigrants are not allowed duty free concessions on the following items:-

Foodstuffs, liquor, beverages, confectionery, construction materials, fittings for building, vehicle spares, dredges, engines, trucks, busses, printing presses, etc.

2. It is vitally necessary for the remigrant to give a complete list of all items on which he/she is requesting duty free concessions. Failure to list all the items may result in the remigrant having to pay full customs duty and taxes on the items not listed.

REMIGRATION OFFICER

Protocol and Consular Department
"Ramphal House"
Ministry of Foreign Affairs
Takuba Lodge, South Road & New Garden Street
Georgetown
GUYANA
Telephone No.:(02-58683, 61607-9, 57055, 57069, 56467, 54151)
Fax No.:(02-59192)

EMBASSY OF THE REPUBLIC OF GUYANA-BELGIUM
12 Avenue du Bresil
1050 Brussels, Belgium
Tel:(32)2-675-6312 /6216
Fax:(32)2-675-6331

EMBASSY OF THE REPUBLIC OF GUYANA-BRAZIL
SBN - Quadra 2, Bloco `J'
Ed Paulo Mauvicio
13 Andar, Salas 1310-1315
CEP 70438-900
Brasilia D.F. BRAZIL
Tel:(55)61-224-9229 /9726
Fax:(55)61-226-3022

GUYANA HIGH COMMISSION-CANADA
151 Slater Street, Suite 305
Ottawa, CANADA
KIP 5H3
Telephone No.:(613-235-7249)
Fax No.:(613-235-1447)

GUYANA CONSULATE GENERAL-TORONTO
505 Consumer Road, Suite 306
Willowdale, Ontario
CANADA
M2J 4V8
Telephone Nos.:(416-494-6040, 416-494-6059)
Fax No.:(416-494 1530)

EMBASSY OF THE REPUBLIC OF GUYANA-CHINA
No. 1 Xiu Dong Jie
Jian Guo Men Wai
Beijing
CHINA
Tel:(86)10-532-2066 /1601
Fax:(86)10-532-5741

EMBASSY OF THE REPUBLIC OF GUYANA-CUBA
Calle 18 No. 506
Entre 5ta y 7 ma
Miramar, Havana
CUBA
Telephone No.:(53)7 33-28 67

EMBASSY OF THE REPUBLIC OF GUYANA - USA
2490 Tracy Place N.W.
Washington, D.C. 20008
UNITED STATES OF AMERICA
Telephone Nos.:(202)265-6900/6901
Fax No.:(202)232-1297

EMBASSY OF THE REPUBLIC OF GUYANA-VENEZUELA
Quinta Roraima
Avenida El Paseo
Prados Del Este
Caracas, VENEZUELA
Tel:(58)2 978-2781 /977-1118
Fax:(58)2 976-3765

EMBASSY OF THE REPUBLIC OF GUYANA-SURINAME
Gravenstraat No. 82
P.O. Box 785
Paramaribo, SURINAME
Tel:(597)472-509 /477-895
Fax:(597)472-679

HIGH COMMISSION OF THE REPUBLIC OF GUYANA-UK
3 Palace Court
Bayswater Road
London, UNITED KINGDOM
Tel:(44)171-792-1178 /229-7684/221-1396
Fax:(44)171-727-9809

GUYANA CONSULATE GENERAL-NEW YORK
366 U.N. Plaza, 3rd Floor
2288 Baylis Avenue
Elmont, New York
USA
6067 10003
Telephone Nos.:(212-257-3215, 212-527-3216)
Fax No.:(212-527-3229)

MINISTRIES

MINISTRY OF LEGAL AFFAIRS
Carmichael Street
Georgetown, GUYANA
Portfolios: Legal Adviser to the Government, Legislative Drafting, Civil/Criminal Litigation
Tel:(02)-62616-8
Fax:(02)-50741

MINISTRY OF AGRICULTURE
Regent & Vlissengen Road
Bourda, Georgetown, GUYANA
Portfolios: Land Development/Distribution, Marketing, Land and Surveys, Fisheries/Marine Exploitation, Forestry, Agriculture, Wild Life, National Dairy Development.
Tel:(02)53857, 56281
Fax:(02)56281

MINISTRY OF EDUCATION & CULTURAL DEVELOPMENT
Brickdam,Georgetown
GUYANA
Portfolios: Pre-School Education, Primary Education, Secondary Education, Adult/Continuing Education Physical Education, Technical and Vocational Training, National Service.
Tel:(02)64434
Fax:(02)58356

MINISTRY OF FINANCE Main Street, Georgetown
GUYANA
Portfolios: Budgeting/Budget Control, Consolidated Fund, Customs and excise, Inland Revenue, Capital Investment/Repayments, Fiscal & Monetary Policy, Banking & Loans, Finance Economic Management, Privatization Unit.
Tel:(02)73991-2

MINISTRY OF TRADE, TOURISM AND INDUSTRY
South Road, Georgetown
GUYANA
Portfolios: Commerce, Industry, International Trade, Tourism, Service Industries, Air Services, Public Corporations
Tel:(02)62392, 62505, 63182

MINISTRY OF FOREIGN AFFAIRS
Takuba Lodge,
South Road & New Garden Street, Georgetown
GUYANA
Portfolios: Foreign Investment and Investors, Economic Development and Planning, Contracts, Foreign Aid.
Tel:(02)58683, 61607-9, 57055, 57069, 56467, 54151
Fax:(02)59192

MINISTRY OF HEALTH
Brickdam, Georgetown
GUYANA
Portfolios: Public Health, Care Services, Hospitals, Health Education, Nurses, Training Food & Drugs, Quality Control.
Tel:(02)65861-5
Fax:(02)56985

MINISTRY OF HOME AFFAIRS
Brickdam, Georgetown
GUYANA
Portfolios: Consumer Affairs, Social Services, Population Control/Program, National Insurance, Community Development.
Tel:(02)63454, 62444
Fax:(02)62740

MINISTRY OF LABOR, HOUSING, HUMAN SERVICES AND SOCIAL SECURITY
Homestretch Avenue, Georgetown
GUYANA
Portfolios: Housing, Youth, Board of Industrial Training, Recruitment and Placement, Seaman's Pool, Occupational Safety & Health, Labor, Housing, Children's Services, Women's Affairs Bureau, Mahaica Hospital, the Palms and Senior Citizens.
Tel:(02)60595
Fax: 02-53477

MINISTRY OF AMERINDIAN AFFAIRS
Wight's Lane, Kingston, Georgetown
GUYANA
Portfolios: Amerindian Affairs, Preservation of Culture, Development, Education.
Tel:(02)63959

MINISTRY OF PUBLIC WORKS, COMMUNICATION AND REGIONAL DEVELOPMENT
Wight's Lane, Kingston, Georgetown
GUYANA
Portfolios: Construction of Government Buildings, Harbor and Safety in Coastal Waters, Bridges, Main Roads/Highways, Electricity, Water, Public Transport, Civil Aviation, Harbor Traffic, Unemployment Relief Programs, Telecommunication, Postal Services.
Tel:(02)73101-2
Fax:(02)67573

DEPARTMENTS

CUSTOMS AND EXCISE DEPARTMENT
34 Main Street, South Cummingsburg, Georgetown
GUYANA
Tel:(02)56932-8
Fax:(02)62128

LANDS AND SURVEYS DEPARTMENT
22 Upper Hadfield Street, Georgetown
GUYANA
Tel:(02)72582
Fax:(02)64052

GUYANA OFFICE FOR INVESTMENT (GO-INVEST)
190 Camp Street, Lacytown, Georgetown
GUYANA
Tel:(02)55608, 70653, 50658, 50659
Fax:(02)50655

CENTRAL HOUSING & PLANNING AUTHORITY
Homestretch Avenue, Durban Park, Georgetown
GUYANA
Tel:(02)60595-9

LICENCE REVENUE DIVISION
Smyth and Princes Street, Werk-en-rust, Georgetown
GUYANA
Tel:(02)56143, 61273

GUYANA ELECTRICITY CORPORATION
40 Main Street, South Cummingsburg, Georgetown
GUYANA

GUYANA TELEPHONE & TELEGRAPH COMPANY 69 Brickdam, Georgetown
GUYANA
Tel:(02)64825

GUYANA WATER AUTHORITY
10 Fort Street, Kingston, Georgetown
GUYANA
Tel:(02)50473-6

ALFRED SANMOGAN LIMITED
93 Regent Street, Lacytown, Georgetown
GUYANA
Tel:(02)71454

AZEEZ HACK CUSTOMS BROKERAGE
177 Charlotte & Alexander Streets, Lacytown, Georgetown
GUYANA
Tel:(02)72857, 70557

GENERAL BROKERS BUSINESS ENTERPRISE
35 Main Street, Cummingsburg, Georgetown
GUYANA
Tel:(02)56181

IDI ENGINEERING
39 Industrial Site, BV, East Coast Demerara
GUYANA
Tel:(20)7025-8

LAPARKAN FREIGHT DIVISION
2-9 Lombard Street, Georgetown
GUYANA
Tel:(02)61059-7
Fax:(02)61009, 61006

M&M WORLDWIDE TRADING COMPANY
98 Camp Street, W/rust, Georgetown
GUYANA
Tel:(02)66767

MIKES LICENSED CUSTOM HOUSE BROKER
61 Hadfield Street, W/rust, Georgetown
GUYANA
Tel:(032)54920

NEW GUYANA MARKETING CORPORATION
87 Robb & Alexander Streets, Lacytown, Georgetown
GUYANA
Tel:(02)68255