EXTENSION OF AMNESTY FOR FILING AT THE COMPANIES REGISTRY IN TRINIDAD AND TOBAGO

On November 15, 2024, the Office of the Attorney General and Ministry of Legal Affairs issued Legal Notice No. 212 titled The Companies (Waiver of Penalties) (No. 3) Order, 2024, which revised the extension period for compliance under the Companies Act, Chap. 81:01. The extension is now until December 13, 2024.

​Key Updates:

1. Revised Waiver Period:
   The updated order extends the waiver of penalties for late filings from November 14, 2024, to December 13, 2024. This is a modification from the initial dates specified in Legal Notice No. 210, which it supersedes. (Legal Notice No. 210 which was previously issued allowed for the extension to January 31, 2025 - THIS NO LONGER APPLIES).
   
   
2. Purpose of the Waiver:
   The waiver aims to encourage companies to regularize filings without penalties, supporting compliance with the Companies Act. It also ensures Trinidad and Tobago fulfills its international compliance obligations, which are critical for maintaining the country's global reputation.
   
   
3. Legal Citation and Effect:
   ​The order is cited as The Companies (Waiver of Penalties) (No. 3) Order, 2024 under Legal Notice No. 212, and it replaces all stipulations in Legal Notice No. 210 dated November 14, 2024.

Why Is This Important?
The Companies Registry serves as a vital administrative hub for corporate filings, ensuring compliance with the legal framework of Trinidad and Tobago. However, businesses often face challenges in meeting deadlines for reasons such as resource constraints, administrative delays, or financial burdens.

This waiver provides the following benefits:
Relief from Financial Penalties: Companies can avoid substantial fines that may accumulate due to non-compliance, providing significant cost savings.

Encouragement of Compliance: The extension motivates delinquent companies to regularize their records without fear of penalties, ensuring transparency and accountability in corporate operations.

Why This Revision Matters:
The shorter waiver period signals urgency in compliance. Businesses must act swiftly to avoid the risk of penalties and ensure they meet statutory obligations.
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What Companies Should Do:

• Check Compliance Status: Review all pending filings at the Companies Registry.
  
  
• Prepare for Filing: Gather and prepare all mandatory documents, such as annual returns and updates on directorships.
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• File Before the Deadline: Submit all required filings by December 13, 2024, to take advantage of this waiver period.

For assistance with your filings or further legal advice, contact Aurora Chambers through our website at www.lawforalltt.com/contact-us.html. We can help you stay compliant and focus on your business goals.

Important Notice: This article is for informational purposes only and does not constitute legal advice. Always seek consultation with an attorney for your specific legal concerns, as only a professional familiar with the details of your situation can provide proper guidance. 
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​This website is managed by AURORA Chambers; a law practice in Trinidad and Tobago.

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