The Deeds and Commercial Registries Authority (DCRA) is a key government institution in Guyana that administers laws affecting land transactions, powers of attorney, deed polls, company registrations, trademarks, and other important legal documents. Whether you need to change your name, grant someone power of attorney, search a property title, or register a company, the DCRA is where these transactions are recorded and formalized. This guide covers the most commonly used DCRA services and how to access them.
In This Guide
Official Forms & Downloads
- Power of Attorney Form (PDF) Official DCRA power of attorney form for registration at the Deeds Registry.
- Name Search & Reservation Form (PDF) For searching and reserving a business name before registration.
- DCRA Application Forms Portal All downloadable DCRA forms for companies, business names, deeds, and more.
- DCRA Official Website Deed poll forms available in-person at Charlotte Street and Avenue of the Republic, Georgetown (Deeds Registry).
Official DCRA Links & Resources
DCRA Services
DCRA Overview
The Deeds and Commercial Registries Authority (DCRA) is the government body that administers two major registries in Guyana:
Deeds Registry
Commercial Registry
Change of Name (Deed Poll)
A deed poll is the legal mechanism for changing your name in Guyana. It is a binding legal document that declares you have renounced your former name and adopted a new one. The deed poll must be registered at the DCRA to have legal effect.
Who Can Execute a Deed Poll
Any person of sound mind can execute a deed poll. For minors (under 18), a parent or legal guardian acts on their behalf. Common reasons for name changes include marriage, divorce, personal preference, or correcting errors in official records.
Step-by-Step Process
Engage a Legal Practitioner
Hire a lawyer, Justice of the Peace (JP), or Notary Public to draft your deed poll document. The document must be created by a legal practitioner and requires two witnesses present during execution.
Execute the Deed Poll
Sign the deed poll in the presence of two witnesses. The document must be signed (attested) by a Notary Public or at a Guyana Consulate (if executed abroad). Bring your birth certificate and valid ID.
Submit to the DCRA for Registration
You or your legal representative submits the executed deed poll to the Deeds Registry at the DCRA for official registration. Bring the original deed poll and your supporting documents.
Pay the Registration Fees
Pay the required fees at the DCRA cashier. The DCRA accepts cash and Manager's Cheque only. Obtain and keep your receipt.
Collect Your Registered Deed Poll
Collect your registered deed poll from the DCRA within 3 working days. This is your official legal document evidencing the name change.
Publish in the Official Gazette
While not always mandatory, it is advisable to publish the name change in the Official Gazette to provide public notice. You should also update your name with other agencies (GRO, GECOM, NIS, banks, etc.).
Required Documents
Deed Poll Documents
Fees
| Fee Type | Amount (GYD) |
|---|---|
| General Fee | $20 |
| Duty | $100 |
| Copy | $10 |
| Attestation Fee | $50 |
| Total DCRA Fees | $180 |
Additional Costs
The fees above are only the DCRA registration fees. Your lawyer or Notary Public will charge separately for drafting the deed poll and attestation. Legal fees vary - expect to pay between GYD $10,000 - $50,000 for the lawyer's services depending on the practitioner and complexity.
Power of Attorney
A power of attorney (POA) is a legal document that authorizes another person (the "attorney" or "agent") to act on your behalf in legal, financial, or personal matters. It is commonly used when you cannot be physically present to handle transactions, particularly for property dealings, banking, or legal matters while abroad.
Types of Power of Attorney
POA Types Available at DCRA
When You Need a Power of Attorney
- Property Transactions: Buying, selling, or managing property while you are abroad or unable to attend.
- Legal Matters: Authorizing a lawyer or agent to represent you in court proceedings or legal transactions.
- Banking & Finance: Managing bank accounts, investments, or financial transactions on your behalf.
- Business Operations: Authorizing someone to run your business or make decisions during your absence.
- Immigration Matters: Handling visa applications, document collection, or other immigration-related tasks.
Process
Draft the POA Document
Engage a lawyer to draft the power of attorney document. The document must clearly specify the powers being granted, the scope, and the identity of both the grantor and the agent. Two witnesses must be present during execution.
Notarize the Document
Have the POA signed before a Notary Public in Guyana. If you are abroad, the document must be executed before a Guyana Consulate or notarized and apostilled according to the laws of the country where you are located.
Register at the DCRA
Submit the executed and notarized POA to the Deeds Registry at the DCRA for registration. Your lawyer or the agent can submit on your behalf. Pay the registration fees.
Collect the Registered POA
Collect the registered power of attorney from the DCRA. The agent can now use this document to act on your behalf within the scope of the powers granted.
Revoking a Power of Attorney
Important: Revoking a POA
To revoke a power of attorney (except an irrevocable one), you must execute a revocation document through a lawyer, have it notarized, and register the revocation at the DCRA. You should also notify the agent in writing and inform any institutions (banks, land registries, courts) where the POA was being used. Until the revocation is registered, the agent may still be able to act on your behalf.
Company Registration
The DCRA's Commercial Registry handles the incorporation of companies under the Companies Act. Company registration creates a separate legal entity with limited liability protection for its shareholders and directors.
Key Points
Complete Business Registration Guide
For a detailed, step-by-step guide to registering a company or business name in Guyana, including all required documents, fees, and processing times, see our dedicated guide.
Business Registration GuideBusiness Name Registration
Business name registration at the DCRA allows individuals and partnerships to operate under a specific business name. This is the simplest form of business registration and is suitable for sole traders and small partnerships.
Quick Reference
Business name registration is faster and less expensive than company incorporation, but it does not provide limited liability protection. For most sole traders and small partnerships, this is the appropriate first step. See our Business Registration Guide for the full process, documents, and fees.
Searching the Registry
The DCRA allows the public to search its records for information about property titles, company registrations, and other registered documents. Searches are commonly needed for property transactions, due diligence, and legal proceedings.
Types of Searches
Available Searches
How to Conduct a Search
Visit the DCRA office (Deeds Registry for property searches, Commercial Registry for company and business searches) and request a search at the counter. You will need to provide the details you are searching for (property address, company name, person's name, etc.) and pay the search fee. Results are typically available the same day for simple searches. For complex or historical searches, you may need to allow additional time. Lawyers can conduct searches on your behalf.
Search Tips
For property searches, have the lot number, address, and owner's name ready if possible. For company searches, the exact registered name of the company yields the best results. Some basic company information may also be available on the DCRA website.
DCRA Office Locations
Georgetown Offices
Commercial Registry
Deeds Registry
Regional Offices
Region 1 - Mabaruma / Port Kaituma
Region 2 - Suddie
Region 6 - New Amsterdam (Berbice)
Region 7 - Bartica
Region 8 - Mahdia
Region 9 - Lethem
Expanding Access
The DCRA has been actively expanding its regional presence to bring services closer to citizens in the hinterland and rural areas. A Linden (Region 10) office is planned. Check the DCRA website for the latest information on office locations and services available at each location.
Contact Information
DCRA Contact Details
Frequently Asked Questions
How do I change my name in Guyana?
Execute a deed poll through the DCRA. Have a lawyer, JP, or Notary Public draft the deed poll document, sign it with two witnesses and a Notary Public, register it at the DCRA (3 working days), and then publish the change in the Official Gazette. Total DCRA fees are GYD $180 plus your lawyer's fees.
How much does a deed poll cost in Guyana?
The DCRA registration fees total GYD $180 (General Fee $20 + Duty $100 + Copy $10 + Attestation $50). Your lawyer or Notary Public will charge separately for drafting the document, typically between GYD $10,000 - $50,000.
What types of power of attorney are available in Guyana?
The DCRA registers four types: General (broad authority), Limited (specific scope), Special (particular transactions), and Irrevocable Limited (cannot be revoked). Each must be drafted by a lawyer, notarized, and registered at the DCRA.
How do I revoke a power of attorney?
Execute a revocation document through a lawyer, have it notarized, and register the revocation at the DCRA. Notify the agent in writing and inform any institutions where the POA was being used. Irrevocable powers of attorney cannot be revoked by the grantor.
Can I execute a power of attorney from abroad?
Yes, you can execute a POA at a Guyana Consulate abroad, or have it notarized and apostilled in the country where you are located. The document must then be sent to Guyana and registered at the DCRA by your lawyer or representative.
How do I search for a property title?
Visit the Deeds Registry at the DCRA (Charlotte Street and Avenue of the Republic, Georgetown, or a regional office). Provide the property details (lot number, address, owner's name) and pay the search fee. Results are typically available the same day. Lawyers can conduct searches on your behalf.
Where are the DCRA offices located?
The DCRA has offices in Georgetown (Commercial Registry at Lot 1 High and Commerce Streets, Deeds Registry at Charlotte Street and Avenue of the Republic), and regional offices in Mabaruma/Port Kaituma (Region 1), Suddie (Region 2), New Amsterdam (Region 6), Bartica (Region 7), Mahdia (Region 8), and Lethem (Region 9). A Linden office is planned.
What payment methods does the DCRA accept?
The DCRA only accepts cash (GYD) and Manager's Cheque. Credit cards, debit cards, and personal cheques are not accepted. Always obtain a receipt for payments.
What is the difference between a company and a business name registration?
A company (incorporated under the Companies Act) is a separate legal entity with limited liability - shareholders' personal assets are protected. A business name registration allows you to trade under a specific name but does not create a separate legal entity - the owner remains personally liable for all debts and obligations.
Last updated: April 3, 2026. DCRA services, fees, and processes may change. Always verify current requirements with the Deeds and Commercial Registries Authority before proceeding. For general government services information, see our Government Services hub.