Operating certain businesses, handling specific materials, or carrying out regulated activities in Guyana requires permits and licences from various government agencies. From firearms licences issued by the Guyana Police Force to mining permits from the GGMC and environmental authorizations from the EPA, this guide covers the most commonly needed permits, how to apply, what documents you need, and the associated fees.
Quick Links
- moha.gov.gy — Ministry of Home Affairs Applications Firearms licence forms (individual, company, dealer), tint waivers, and more.
- eservices.ggmc.gov.gy — GGMC Mining eServices Apply online for mining permits, dredge licences, and goldsmith licences.
- eservices.epa.gov.gy — EPA Environmental Permits Apply for environmental authorisation online, check application status, and report incidents.
- gra.gov.gy — GRA (Liquor Licence Applications) Online liquor licence applications and tax-related services.
- health.gov.gy — Ministry of Health Food handler's certificate information and public health requirements.
- mintic.gov.gy — Ministry of Tourism, Industry & Commerce Import/export licences and trade regulation. +592-226-2505
In This Guide
Official Forms & Downloads
- Firearms Licence Application — Individual (PDF) Official application form from the Ministry of Home Affairs. Complete in CAPITAL LETTERS. Also available: Company form.
- Mining Permit & Licence Applications — GGMC eServices Apply online for mining permits, dredge licences, goldsmith licences, and more. Application fee: $2,000 GYD per application.
- Environmental Authorisation Application (PDF) — EPA Download the EA application form. $50 USD fee. Also apply via EPA eServices Portal. See required documents checklist.
- All MoHA Application Forms — Firearms, Tint Waivers & More Firearms (individual, company, dealer, farmer, Amerindian), upgrades, replacements, transfers, and tint waiver applications.
- GGMC Land Management & Mineral Tenure Information on prospecting licences, mining permits, and claim registration. Food Handler’s Certificate: apply in-person at your nearest public health department (no online form).
Firearms Licence
Firearms licences in Guyana are regulated by the Firearms Act (Cap. 16:05) and administered through the Guyana Police Force and the Ministry of Home Affairs. The process involves a thorough background check and approval by the Firearms Licensing Approval Board.
Issuing Authority
Types of Firearms
- Shotgun: For agricultural use, sport shooting, or property protection.
- Rifle: For hunting, sport shooting, or specific occupational use.
- Pistol/Revolver: For personal protection (most restricted category, requires strong justification).
Application Process
Obtain and Complete Application Form
Collect the application form from the GPF Headquarters at Eve Leary or the Ministry of Home Affairs. For individuals, use the Individual Application form; companies use the Company Application form. Complete all sections including personal details, reason for the firearm, and type requested.
Submit Application with Documents
Submit the completed form with required documents to the Commissioner of Police. You will receive an acknowledgement letter. Required: valid ID, proof of address, two character references, passport-sized photos, and a statement of reason for needing the firearm.
Background Investigation
The Commissioner of Police forwards your application to the Criminal Investigation Department (CID), Special Branch, and your Divisional Commander. Police officers will visit your residence, take a statement, and fingerprints. The Divisional Commander verifies your information and submits a report with a recommendation.
Firearms Licensing Board Review
The Commissioner of Police forwards findings and a recommendation to the Minister of Home Affairs. The Firearms Licensing Approval Board reviews the recommendation and makes a final decision.
Licence Issued or Denied
If approved, the firearms licence is issued. The licence specifies the type and number of firearms you are authorized to possess. If denied, you may be given reasons and may reapply after addressing any concerns.
Required Documents
Important
Processing times for firearms licences can take several months due to the thorough background investigation process. Possession of an unlicensed firearm is a serious criminal offence in Guyana. Licences must be renewed annually.
Liquor Licence
Liquor licences in Guyana are issued by District Licensing Boards that meet at Magistrate's Courts across the country. The licensing system is regulated under the Intoxicating Liquor Licensing Act.
Types of Liquor Licences
| Licence Type | Description | Renewal Fee (GYD) |
|---|---|---|
| Hotel Licence | For hotels and guest houses to serve alcohol on premises | $5,000 - $10,000 |
| Restaurant Licence | For restaurants to serve alcohol with meals | $5,000 - $10,000 |
| Members' Club | For private clubs to serve alcohol to members | $5,000 - $10,000 |
| Tavern Licence | For bars and taverns serving alcohol on premises | $5,000 - $10,000 |
| Spirit Shop | For retail shops selling sealed bottles for off-premises consumption | $5,000 - $10,000 |
| Off-Licence Permit | For selling sealed liquor for off-premises consumption | $4,000 |
Application Process
Prepare Your Application
Obtain an application form from the GRA or the Magistrate's Court in your district. Complete the form specifying the type of licence, premises details, and your personal/business information.
Submit to the District Licensing Board
Submit your completed application with proof of premises, character references, and the required fee to the District Licensing Board through the Magistrate's Court in your area (Georgetown, Berbice, etc.).
Board Review
The District Licensing Board meets quarterly to consider applications. They may inspect your premises and consider any objections from the community. An Excise Notice is published in the Official Gazette advertising new licence applications.
Licence Issued
If approved, the liquor licence is issued for your specific premises and licence type. Licences are renewed annually and you must comply with all conditions including operating hours and age restrictions.
Online Applications
The GRA has introduced the option for online liquor licence applications. Check the GRA website for the latest information on online application availability.
Mining Permits (GGMC)
Mining permits and licences in Guyana are issued by the Guyana Geology and Mines Commission (GGMC) under the Mining Act 1989. The GGMC administers all applications for mineral properties in the country.
Guyana Geology and Mines Commission (GGMC)
Types of Mining Permits
| Permit Type | Scale | Area | Duration |
|---|---|---|---|
| Prospecting Permit (Small Scale) | Small | Up to 150 acres | 1 year, renewable |
| Prospecting Permit (Medium Scale) | Medium | 150 - 1,200 acres | Up to 3 years |
| Mining Permit | Medium | 150 - 1,200 acres | 5 years, renewable |
| Mining Licence | Large | Over 1,200 acres | Up to 20 years |
| Quarry Licence | Varies | Varies | Varies |
Mining Permit Application (Medium Scale)
Required Documents
Environmental Requirements
All mining permit holders must sign an Environmental Management Agreement with the GGMC before the permit is issued. Mining operations are subject to environmental inspections. The environmental bond of GYD $100,000 is refundable upon satisfactory completion of environmental rehabilitation.
Public Notice
Once a mining permit application is recommended for approval, a public notice of intent to grant is published for 21 days before final approval. This allows any interested parties to raise objections. Large-scale mining licences require additional Environmental Impact Assessments through the EPA.
New Requirement (January 2026)
The GGMC now requires all miners and stakeholders to maintain a local bank account as a mandatory condition for processing, accessing, or renewing mining licences and permits. All miners must also update their personal records with the GGMC. Failure to comply may result in suspension of licences and permits.
Food Handler's Certificate
Anyone who handles food commercially in Guyana is required to obtain a Food Handler's Certificate from the Public Health Department of the Ministry of Health. This ensures that food handlers understand basic food safety and hygiene practices.
Issuing Authority
Who Needs a Food Handler's Certificate
Required For
How to Obtain
Register for Food Safety Training
Contact the Public Health Department to register for a food safety training course. The course covers food hygiene, safe food handling, temperature control, pest management, and personal hygiene.
Complete the Training Course
Attend the food safety training course, which is typically a short programme covering essential food handling practices and regulations.
Medical Examination
Undergo a medical examination to confirm you are free from communicable diseases that could be transmitted through food. This includes a physical examination and may include lab tests (stool sample, chest X-ray).
Receive Your Certificate
Once you pass the training and medical examination, you receive your Food Handler's Certificate. This must be renewed periodically (usually annually) with a new medical check.
Environmental Permits (EPA)
The Environmental Protection Agency (EPA) of Guyana regulates activities that impact the environment through its environmental authorization process. Projects ranging from construction to mining to manufacturing may require EPA approval before they can proceed.
Environmental Protection Agency
Who Needs an Environmental Permit
Activities Requiring EPA Authorization
Types of Environmental Authorization
| Authorization Type | Description | When Required |
|---|---|---|
| Environmental Permit | General authorization for activities with environmental impact | Most regulated activities |
| Construction Permit | Specific to construction and development projects | Building and infrastructure |
| Operating Permit | For ongoing industrial or commercial operations | Factories, processing plants |
| Prescribed Process Licence | For specific regulated industrial processes | Specialized industries |
Application Process
Required Documents
Online Applications
The EPA offers online permit applications through their eServices portal at eservices.epa.gov.gy. You can also report environmental incidents and check application status online.
Import/Export Licence
Certain goods require an import or export licence from the Ministry of Tourism, Industry and Commerce before they can be brought into or shipped out of Guyana. The licensing system ensures compliance with trade regulations, safety standards, and international trade agreements.
Ministry of Tourism, Industry and Commerce
When You Need an Import/Export Licence
Regulated Goods
Application Process
Apply to the Ministry of Tourism, Industry and Commerce with your completed application form, business registration documents, TIN, and a description of the goods. For imports, you will also need a pro-forma invoice from the supplier. Processing times vary depending on the type of goods and any additional clearances required (e.g., EPA, Ministry of Health, or Guyana National Bureau of Standards).
Customs Requirements
In addition to import/export licences, all imported goods must be cleared through the Guyana Revenue Authority (Customs and Trade Administration). You will need a TIN and may need to register as an importer. See our TIN Registration Guide for details.
Quick Reference: All Permits at a Glance
| Permit/Licence | Issuing Agency | Key Requirement | Timeline |
|---|---|---|---|
| Firearms Licence | GPF / Ministry of Home Affairs | Background check, Board approval | 2-6 months |
| Liquor Licence | District Licensing Board | Premises inspection, Board meeting | 1-3 months |
| Mining Permit (Medium) | GGMC | Valid prospecting permit, env. bond | 1-3 months |
| Food Handler's Certificate | Ministry of Health | Training course, medical exam | 1-2 weeks |
| Environmental Permit | EPA | Application, no-objection letter | 1-6 months |
| Import/Export Licence | Min. of Tourism, Industry & Commerce | TIN, business registration | 1-4 weeks |
Starting a Business in Guyana?
Many permits and licences require a registered business and a TIN. Check out our business registration and TIN guides to get started.
Business Registration GuideFrequently Asked Questions
How do I apply for a firearms licence in Guyana?
Apply at the Guyana Police Force Headquarters at Eve Leary, Georgetown. Complete the application form, provide required documents (ID, proof of address, character references, photos), and submit to the Commissioner of Police. The process involves a background check, home visit, and review by the Firearms Licensing Approval Board. Processing takes 2-6 months.
How do I get a liquor licence in Guyana?
Apply to the District Licensing Board through the Magistrate's Court in your district. Submit an application with proof of premises, character references, and the required fee. The Board meets quarterly to consider applications. You can apply online through the GRA website.
What types of mining permits does the GGMC issue?
The GGMC issues prospecting permits (small and medium scale), mining permits (medium scale, 150-1,200 acres for 5 years), mining licences (large scale, over 1,200 acres for up to 20 years), and quarry licences. You need a valid prospecting permit before applying for a mining permit.
Do I need a food handler's certificate in Guyana?
Yes, anyone who handles food commercially needs a food handler's certificate from the Public Health Department. This includes restaurant workers, street food vendors, food manufacturers, bakery workers, and caterers. You must complete a food safety training course and pass a medical examination.
When do I need an environmental permit from the EPA?
You need EPA authorization for construction projects, mining operations, manufacturing, large-scale agriculture, waste disposal, and any activity that may significantly impact the environment. The application fee is USD $50. You also need a no-objection letter from your local authority and proof of land ownership or tenancy.
Can non-nationals apply for a firearms licence in Guyana?
Yes, but with additional requirements. Non-nationals must have been resident in Guyana for at least one year, hold a valid passport and work permit, and provide a certificate of character (police clearance) from their country of birth or last country of residence.
How long does a mining permit last?
A medium-scale mining permit lasts 5 years and can be renewed for further 5-year periods. A large-scale mining licence can last up to 20 years. All permits require ongoing compliance with environmental conditions and payment of annual rentals and royalties.
Do I need both a GGMC mining permit and an EPA environmental permit?
Yes, for most mining operations you need authorization from both agencies. The GGMC issues the mining permit itself, while the EPA ensures environmental compliance. Large-scale operations require a full Environmental Impact Assessment through the EPA in addition to the GGMC permit.
How often must liquor licences be renewed?
Liquor licences must be renewed annually. Renewal applications are submitted to the District Licensing Board through the Magistrate's Court, with fees ranging from GYD $5,000 to $10,000 depending on the licence type. Failure to renew on time may result in loss of the licence.
Last updated: April 2, 2026. Permit and licence requirements, fees, and processes may change. Always verify current requirements with the relevant government agency before applying. For general government services information, see our Government Services hub.