Based on the businessNOW Fiji portal (https://www.businessnow.gov.fj/) and the recent reforms under the Investment Act 2021, the investor journey has been integrated into a single digital flow.
This process is designed to move an investor from initial registration to full operational status through a centralized e-Services platform.
- The Pre-Establishment Phase: Digital Identity
Before any legal filings, investors must establish their digital credentials to access the "One-Stop-Shop" features of the businessNOW portal.
- ROC Pass & e-Profile: Foreign investors register an e-Profile. This is traditionally linked to a Birth Registration Number for citizens; however, foreign investors can register by visiting a Registrar of Companies (ROC) office or using an authorized local agent listed on the businessNOW portal.
- Verification: Once the profile is created, you receive an ROC Pass, which serves as your secure login for all downstream government services.
- The Establishment Phase: Integrated e-Services
The businessNOW portal integrates eight key services. Once logged in, the system uses a Guided Journey Flowchart that adapts to your specific sector.
- Company Registration: Reserve your business name and register your company details through the digital ROC portal.
- Tax & Employer Setup: The portal links directly to the Fiji Revenue and Customs Service (FRCS) for your Tax Identification Number (TIN) and to the Fiji National Provident Fund (FNPF) for Employer Registration.
- Foreign Investment Specifics: For businesses with foreign stakeholders, the portal includes the application for the Letter of Issuance for Securities/Partnership Interest via the Reserve Bank of Fiji (RBF).
- The Operational Phase: Safety & Health Compliance
Before "completion" (opening your doors), the portal facilitates the necessary physical inspections and safety certifications:
- Fire & Safety: Apply for the Structural Fire Safety Compliance Certificate from the National Fire Authority.
- OHS Inspection: Request a General Workplace Inspection from National Occupational Health and Safety Services.
- Health Licensing: For those in the food or beverage sector, the portal handles the Health License application through the Ministry of Health and Medical Services.
- Completion & The Aftercare Loop
Once the 14-day target turnaround for these integrated services is met, the journey shifts to long-term sustainability.
- Reporting Obligations: Under the new Act, you must provide a mandatory update report on your investment activities within three months of incorporation.
- Investment Fiji Support: At this stage, Investment Fiji takes the lead as your primary advocate. They provide "Aftercare" by helping navigate any utility delays (water/power), assisting with work permit renewals for key staff, and identifying local supply chain partners.
- Expansion: As the business grows, Investment Fiji facilitates access to export promotion grants and reinvestment incentives for diversified projects.
Summary of the Digital Workflow
- Register: Obtain ROC Pass (via agent or in-person verification).
- Apply: Use the businessNOW portal for Company, Tax, and RBF approvals.
- Inspect: Use the same portal to trigger Fire, OHS, and Health approvals.
- Operate: Manage compliance and seek expansion support through Investment Fiji's aftercare team.
