International Business Company (IBC)
Company formation in Seychelles
The IBC is best suited for: International holding structures and asset protection, IP holding companies as part of a multi-jurisdictional structure, International trading companies where the IBC is a non-banking entity in a larger arrangement, Experienced investors building multi-layered corporate structures. Seychelles IBCs are exempt from all Seychelles taxes on income derived from sources outside Seychelles. There is no corporate income tax, capital gains tax, withholding tax, or stamp duty on IBC transactions. The IBC cannot conduct business with persons resident in Seychelles and cannot own real property in Seychelles. IBCs are not entitled to benefits under Seychelles' double tax treaties. The company must pay an annual licence fee to the FSA to maintain its registration. Since Seychelles joined the OECD Global Forum and implemented CRS, beneficial ownership information is maintained in a register accessible to the FSA and exchanged automatically with partner tax authorities.
- International holding structures and asset protection
- IP holding companies as part of a multi-jurisdictional structure
- International trading companies where the IBC is a non-banking entity in a larger arrangement
- Experienced investors building multi-layered corporate structures
Key Facts
Step-by-Step Formation Process
Engage a licensed registered agent in Seychelles
All Seychelles IBCs must be formed through and maintained by a licensed registered agent. The agent handles incorporation, provides the registered office, and acts as the compliance interface with the Seychelles Financial Services Authority (FSA).
Conduct KYC and submit documents
Provide the registered agent with certified passport copies, proof of address, source-of-funds declarations, and a brief description of the intended business activities for all beneficial owners and directors. The agent conducts due diligence before proceeding.
Choose a company name and reserve it
The registered agent checks name availability with the FSA Registrar. The name must include "Limited", "Ltd", "Corporation", "Corp", "Incorporated", "Inc", or an equivalent. Names suggesting banking, insurance, or government affiliation require special approval.
File the Memorandum and Articles of Association
The registered agent files the Memorandum and Articles of Association with the Registrar of International Business Companies. Standard-form documents are typically used, though bespoke articles can be drafted for complex structures.
Receive the Certificate of Incorporation
The Registrar issues the Certificate of Incorporation. The company is now legally formed and can appoint directors, issue shares, and begin operations. The registered agent maintains the company's statutory records.
Required Documents
- Certified passport copy of each director, shareholder, and beneficial owner
- Proof of residential address (utility bill or bank statement, not older than 3 months)
- Source-of-funds declaration for each beneficial owner
- Brief description of intended business activities
- Bank or professional reference letter for each beneficial owner
- Signed registered agent engagement agreement
Cost Overview
Tax Treatment
Seychelles IBCs are exempt from all Seychelles taxes on income derived from sources outside Seychelles. There is no corporate income tax, capital gains tax, withholding tax, or stamp duty on IBC transactions. The IBC cannot conduct business with persons resident in Seychelles and cannot own real property in Seychelles. IBCs are not entitled to benefits under Seychelles' double tax treaties. The company must pay an annual licence fee to the FSA to maintain its registration. Since Seychelles joined the OECD Global Forum and implemented CRS, beneficial ownership information is maintained in a register accessible to the FSA and exchanged automatically with partner tax authorities.
Pros & Cons
- Zero tax on all income derived from outside Seychelles
- Fast incorporation — typically 3–5 business days
- Low formation and annual maintenance costs (among the lowest globally)
- No requirement to file annual returns or audited financial statements with the Registrar
- Flexible corporate law — no restrictions on share classes, dividends, or corporate restructuring
- Bearer shares abolished (2014) but nominee structures available for privacy
- No exchange controls on IBC transactions
- Very difficult to open a bank account with just a Seychelles IBC — banks view standalone IBCs as high-risk
- Limited credibility with institutional counterparties, investors, and sophisticated clients
- Beneficial ownership information is now maintained and exchanged with treaty partners under AEOI/CRS
- Cannot conduct business within Seychelles or own Seychelles real estate
- No access to Seychelles double tax treaties (IBCs are specifically excluded)
- Increasing OECD and EU scrutiny of Seychelles structures
Other Structures in Seychelles
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