Business licence renewal in Cuba
How to renew a business licence — how it works anywhere
Renewing a business license in Cuba, known as 'licencia de trabajo por cuenta propia', involves revalidating the permit through local municipal labor authorities. Applicants must ensure their tax status is up to date and verify that their activities remain compliant with current national regulations.
It is standard practice to initiate the renewal process well before the current permit expires. Due to potential administrative reviews at the municipal level, starting the process at least 30 to 60 days in advance is generally recommended to account for processing times.
Start 45 days ahead
Administrative processing at local offices can vary depending on the municipality and the complexity of the business activity.
The process
- 1Verify current authorization status with the local municipal office of the Ministry of Labor and Social Security.
- 2Ensure all tax obligations and social security contributions are settled with the Oficina Nacional de Administración Tributaria (ONAT).
- 3Submit the request for renewal or revalidation through the designated local government channel.
- 4Provide updated personal identification and current business documentation for review.
- 5Collect the renewed license or official documentation once the municipal authority confirms approval.
What to bring
- Current business license document
- Personal identity card (Carné de Identidad)
- Proof of tax compliance from ONAT
- Evidence of social security payment contributions
Who handles it
Ministerio de Trabajo y Seguridad Social (Ministry of Labor and Social Security)
Fees for business license renewals are subject to local tax regulations; specific amounts should be confirmed directly with the local ONAT office or municipal labor department.
What commonly goes wrong
- Changes in permitted business activities (nomenclador) can affect eligibility for renewal.
- Outstanding tax debts from previous periods are a common cause for renewal delays.
- Failure to update address or operational information can lead to administrative discrepancies.
Sources
Don't rely on remembering
Renewals here take about 45 days to start. Add this document and Duratum will tell you when that window opens.