Your comprehensive guide to understanding Guyana's legal system, laws, courts, and how to access legal services.
This guide provides general information about Guyana's legal system and is intended for educational purposes only. It does not constitute legal advice. For specific legal matters, always consult with a qualified attorney licensed to practice in Guyana. Laws may change, and this information should be verified with official sources.
Understanding Guyana's laws before you arrive will help ensure a smooth and enjoyable visit. Here are the essential legal considerations for tourists and visitors.
Immigration to Guyana is governed by the Immigration Act (Cap. 14:02) and related regulations.
Citizens of CARICOM member states, the USA, Canada, UK, and most EU countries can enter Guyana without a visa for tourism purposes. Always verify current requirements before travel.
Governed by the Customs Act (Cap. 82:01), these regulations control what you can bring into and out of Guyana.
| Item | Duty-Free Allowance | Notes |
|---|---|---|
| Cigarettes | 200 cigarettes or 50 cigars | For personal use only |
| Alcohol | 1 liter of spirits | Persons 18 years and older |
| Perfume | Reasonable quantity | For personal use |
| Gifts | Up to USD $200 value | Subject to inspection |
| Currency | No limit, but must declare over USD $10,000 | Failure to declare is an offense |
Firearms, ammunition, illegal drugs, pornographic material, and counterfeit goods are strictly prohibited. Agricultural products may require permits or be restricted.
Traffic in Guyana is governed by the Motor Vehicles and Road Traffic Act (Cap. 51:02).
Guyana has strict drug laws under the Narcotic Drugs and Psychotropic Substances (Control) Act (Cap. 10:10).
Possession, use, trafficking, or cultivation of illegal drugs carries severe penalties including lengthy prison sentences. There is no distinction between "soft" and "hard" drugs in prosecution. Cannabis remains illegal despite decriminalization discussions.
Residents of Guyana, whether citizens or long-term visa holders, should be familiar with these important areas of law that affect daily life.
Property ownership and transactions in Guyana are governed by several key pieces of legislation:
Always conduct a title search, verify the seller's ownership, check for encumbrances, and engage a licensed attorney to handle the conveyancing. Transport (transfer) of property must be done through the Deeds Registry.
| Property Type | Key Considerations |
|---|---|
| Freehold | Full ownership; highest form of title; can be sold, leased, or inherited |
| Leasehold | Ownership for a fixed term; common for state lands; renewable terms of 25-99 years |
| Transport | Older form of title; still valid but being converted to registered titles |
| Absolute Grant | Land granted by the state to individuals; creates freehold ownership |
The employment relationship in Guyana is primarily governed by:
| Employment Right | Legal Provision |
|---|---|
| Minimum Wage | Currently GYD $60,147 per month (subject to periodic revision) |
| Working Hours | 8 hours per day, 40 hours per week standard |
| Overtime | Time and a half for first 4 hours; double time thereafter |
| Annual Leave | Minimum 2 weeks paid leave after 1 year of service |
| Sick Leave | Varies by employment contract; typically 14-21 days |
| Maternity Leave | 13 weeks (subject to qualifying conditions) |
| Notice Period | Varies by length of service; 1 week to 3 months |
The Domestic Violence Act (Cap. 11:09) provides comprehensive protection for victims of domestic violence.
Physical abuse, sexual abuse, emotional/psychological abuse, financial abuse, intimidation, harassment, stalking, and damage to property within domestic relationships.
Available Remedies:
How to Get Help:
Operating a business in Guyana requires compliance with various laws and regulations. Here are the key legal frameworks.
The Companies Act governs the formation, operation, and dissolution of companies in Guyana.
| Business Type | Key Features | Registration |
|---|---|---|
| Sole Proprietorship | Single owner; personal liability; simplest structure | Business Name Registration at Deeds Registry |
| Partnership | 2+ partners; joint liability; flexible management | Partnership Agreement; Registration at Deeds Registry |
| Private Limited Company | Limited liability; 1-50 shareholders; cannot sell shares publicly | Deeds Registry; Articles of Incorporation |
| Public Limited Company | Limited liability; can sell shares publicly; stricter compliance | Deeds Registry; Securities Council registration |
| External Company | Foreign company operating in Guyana | Registration required within 30 days of starting operations |
Articles of Incorporation, Notice of Directors, Notice of Registered Office, and applicable fees. Processing typically takes 5-10 business days at the Deeds Registry.
Business taxation is governed by several key laws:
| Tax Type | Rate | Notes |
|---|---|---|
| Corporate Tax (Commercial) | 25% | On net chargeable income |
| Corporate Tax (Non-Commercial) | 40% | Includes telephone companies |
| VAT | 14% | On goods and services; some items zero-rated or exempt |
| Withholding Tax | 20% | On payments to non-residents; treaty rates may apply |
| Property Tax | 0.5% - 0.75% | On net property value annually |
All businesses must register with the Guyana Revenue Authority (GRA), file annual returns, and maintain proper accounting records. Penalties apply for late filing and non-compliance.
The Consumer Protection Act and related legislation protect consumers and regulate business practices:
Business Obligations Include:
Access to authentic legal texts is essential for understanding your rights and obligations under Guyanese law.
The Ministry of Legal Affairs is the primary custodian of Guyana's laws and legal documentation.
Available Resources:
The National Assembly website provides access to bills, acts, and parliamentary proceedings.
Available Resources:
The Official Gazette is the government's official journal for publishing legal notices, regulations, and appointments.
Legal notices, subsidiary legislation, proclamations, government appointments, tender notices, and other official announcements. Published weekly and available at the Government Printery and online.
| Resource | Content | Access |
|---|---|---|
| Caribbean Court of Justice | CCJ judgments and decisions | ccj.org |
| CARILAW | Caribbean legal database | Subscription required; available at law libraries |
| University of Guyana Law Library | Legal texts, journals, case law | On-campus access; some digital resources |
| Deeds Registry | Property records, company registrations | In-person searches; Ave of the Republic, Georgetown |
Guyana's court system is based on the English common law tradition and consists of several levels of courts with different jurisdictions.
Final Court of Appeal (since 2005)
Appeals from High Court
Civil, Criminal, Constitutional matters
Summary offences, minor civil matters
The courts of first instance for most matters, located throughout Guyana.
| Jurisdiction | Matters Handled |
|---|---|
| Criminal | Summary offences; preliminary inquiries for indictable offences |
| Civil | Claims up to GYD $500,000; small claims procedures |
| Family | Maintenance, domestic violence, child custody (preliminary) |
| Traffic | Traffic offences and related matters |
The superior court of record with unlimited original jurisdiction in civil and criminal matters.
Hears appeals from the High Court in both civil and criminal matters. Comprises the Chancellor (head of the judiciary) and Justices of Appeal.
Appeals must generally be filed within 21 days of the decision. Leave to appeal may be required for certain matters. The Court of Appeal can affirm, reverse, or vary the lower court's decision.
Guyana's final court of appeal since 2005, replacing the Judicial Committee of the Privy Council.
Guyana also has various specialized tribunals and bodies:
Finding the right legal representation is crucial for protecting your interests. Here's how to find and engage a lawyer in Guyana.
The Bar Association maintains a directory of all licensed attorneys-at-law in Guyana.
Address: 15 Avenue of the Republic, Georgetown
Phone: (592) 227-4790
Email: barofguyana@gmail.com
Services: Attorney directory, referrals, complaints
| Type | Services |
|---|---|
| Attorney-at-Law | General legal practice; court representation; legal advice |
| Solicitor | Non-contentious work; conveyancing; contracts; wills |
| Notary Public | Certification of documents; oaths; affidavits |
| Senior Counsel (SC) | Experienced attorneys recognized for excellence |
Hourly Rate: GYD $15,000 - $50,000+ per hour depending on experience
Flat Fee: Common for routine matters like conveyancing, incorporation
Contingency: Percentage of recovery; common in personal injury cases
Retainer: Advance payment drawn against for ongoing work
Ensure your attorney is licensed to practice in Guyana. Ask to see their practicing certificate or verify through the Bar Association. Be wary of anyone offering legal services without proper credentials.
Access to justice is a fundamental right. These organizations provide free or low-cost legal assistance to those who qualify.
The primary provider of free legal services in Guyana, serving those who cannot afford legal representation.
Address: 65 Robb Street, Georgetown
Phone: (592) 227-3826
Hours: Monday - Friday, 8:00 AM - 4:30 PM
Services: Legal advice, court representation, document preparation
Services Offered:
Services are means-tested. You must demonstrate financial need by providing proof of income. Priority is given to vulnerable groups including victims of domestic violence, the elderly, and persons with disabilities.
Serving the Linden and Upper Demerara-Berbice communities with free legal assistance.
Address: Republic Avenue, Mackenzie, Linden
Phone: (592) 444-2129
Hours: Monday - Friday, 8:00 AM - 4:00 PM
Coverage: Linden, Kwakwani, Ituni, surrounding areas
Focus: Domestic violence, women's rights
Phone: (592) 227-3454
Services: Legal advice, court support, shelter
Focus: Human rights, civil liberties
Phone: (592) 227-2575
Services: Advocacy, legal support, documentation
Focus: Women's rights, gender-based violence
Phone: (592) 227-7010
Services: Support, referrals, advocacy
Focus: Child welfare, family services
Phone: (592) 227-1017
Services: Child protection, social support
Law students under faculty supervision provide free legal assistance to the community.
Important contacts for legal matters and emergencies in Guyana.
Address: 95 Carmichael Street, Georgetown
Phone: (592) 223-9067
Website: mola.gov.gy
Address: 6 Brickdam, Georgetown
Phone: (592) 225-7270
Services: Immigration, passports, visas
Address: Avenue of the Republic, Georgetown
Phone: (592) 227-3046
Services: Property, company registration
Address: 200-201 Camp Street, Georgetown
Phone: (592) 227-6060
Website: gra.gov.gy
Address: Lot 40 Main & Middle Streets, Georgetown
Phone: (592) 227-4114
Services: Consumer complaints, competition matters
Address: 1 Water & Cornhill Streets, Georgetown
Phone: (592) 225-0563
Services: Labour disputes, workplace safety, NIS
This guide is for informational purposes only and does not constitute legal advice. Laws change, and individual circumstances vary. For any legal matter, consult with a qualified attorney licensed to practice in Guyana. The contact information provided was accurate at the time of publication but should be verified before use.
Last Updated: January 2026
95 Carmichael Street, Georgetown
+592 223-9067
mola.gov.gy
6 Brickdam, Georgetown
+592 226-3454
moha.gov.gy
200-201 Camp Street
+592 227-6060
gra.gov.gy
15 Ave of the Republic
+592 227-4790
barofguyana@gmail.com