Restaurant & Food Licence Guide (Guyana 2026)
Food Handler's Permit, restaurant licence and health compliance to legally serve food in Guyana.
Food Handler's Fee
≈ GYD $5,000
Medical Exam
Required
Authority
M&CC / GRA
Renewal
Annual
Compiled from official Guyana government sources and reviewed periodically. Rules and fees can change — always verify directly with the issuing authority before relying on this for any legal or financial decision.
To legally operate a restaurant in Guyana you need a Food Handler's Permit for anyone preparing or serving food, a Health/Sanitation permit from your local municipal authority (e.g. Mayor & City Council in Georgetown), and a Food Restaurant Licence from the GRA. A registered business (TIN + business registration) is a prerequisite.
What You Need
- Business Registration from the Deeds Registry (DCRA).
- Valid TIN certificate from the GRA.
- Food Handler's Permit for each food handler (requires a medical exam — blood/stool tests).
- Health / Sanitation permit from your local municipal authority (M&CC in Georgetown).
- Valid identification (Passport or National ID).
- Completed Food Restaurant Licence application form (GRA).
Step-by-Step
- 1
Register Your Business
Complete business registration at the DCRA and obtain your TIN from the GRA. See our Business Registration guide.
- 2
Get Food Handler's Permits
Each person handling food must complete a medical examination (blood/stool tests) and obtain a Food Handler's Permit. Fee is approximately GYD $5,000.
- 3
Pass Health Inspection
Your premises is inspected by the local health authority (M&CC) for sanitation, storage, and food-safety standards.
- 4
Apply for Restaurant Licence
Submit your application to the GRA with your business registration, food handler's permit(s), and valid ID. Fees are based on the square footage of the establishment.
Official Forms & Links
Where to Apply
Mayor & City Council (M&CC) — Public Health
City Hall, Regent & Avenue of the Republic, Georgetown
+592-226-9727