Yes, nominee director and shareholder services are permitted in Vanuatu. These are often used for confidentiality, provided the beneficial owner’s information is disclosed privately to the registered agent under Vanuatu’s KYC/AML guidelines.
Vanuatu IBC Formation
Register a company in Vanuatu in 6 days with ease, supported by our streamlined services and a responsive, experienced team ready to assist you every step of the way.
About Vanuatu
Vanuatu Offshore Company Registration
Vanuatu is a leading offshore jurisdiction in the Pacific, known for its speed, privacy, and zero-tax environment. Investors who register a Vanuatu IBC benefit from a flexible structure with no corporate tax, no capital gains tax, and no withholding tax. For entrepreneurs, asset managers, and global traders, Vanuatu offshore company registration offers one of the most efficient ways to establish a secure international base.
The Vanuatu International Companies Act provides the legal foundation for every Vanuatu offshore company, ensuring international compliance while maintaining flexibility. When you register a Vanuatu company, incorporation can be completed within 24 to 48 hours, with electronic documents issued immediately. There are no restrictions on foreign ownership, no local director requirements, and no exchange controls, making it simple to manage business worldwide.
Privacy is also a key advantage. Shareholder and director names are not listed in public registries, allowing those who register a Vanuatu IBC to operate with confidentiality while still meeting international compliance standards.
Benefits
Register a Company in Vanuatu
Zero taxation
A Vanuatu IBC pays no corporate income tax, capital gains tax, or withholding tax.
Quick Vanuatu offshore company registration
Incorporation is normally completed within 24–48 hours
Full foreign ownership
Anyone can register a Vanuatu company with 100% foreign ownership rights.
No currency restrictions
A Vanuatu IBC can hold funds and trade in any currency worldwide.
Confidentiality and privacy
Shareholder and director details remain off the public record.
Strong legal basis
Grounded in the Vanuatu International Companies Act, which supports asset protection and international structuring.
Features – Business Company (IBC)
Offshore Company Registration in Vanuatu
Incorporation in 2 days or less
No annual audits for most Vanuatu IBCs
Simple renewals with transparent pricing
Flexible structures for holding, trading, or IP use
Nominee services available for enhanced privacy
Banking support to open multi-currency offshore accounts
International Business Company (IBC)
Vanuatu Company Formation Packages
Basic
$1,400
Annual Renewal: USD 900
Unlimited Name Availability Check: Ensure your chosen company name is unique and available.
Document Preparation and Filing: All necessary documentation is prepared and submitted on your behalf.
Expedited Incorporation Process: Company incorporation completed efficiently.
One Year of Secretarial Services: Comprehensive company secretarial support for one year.
One Year Registered Agent and Address: Provision of a local registered agent and address for one year.
All Government Fees Included for One Year: Covers all government-related fees for the first year.
Digital Corporate Documents: Receive all essential corporate documents in digital format.
This package provides all the necessary services for a foreigner to establish a new Vanuatu International Business Company (IBC) from start to finish.
Standard
$1,550
Annual Renewal: USD 900
All Core Services from the Basic Package Included: This package builds on the Basic tier and includes everything needed to successfully set up your Vanuatu IBC from start to finish.
One Bank Account Application Included: After your company is incorporated, we assist with one full application to a supported bank.
OVZA’s Service Fee Fully Covered: Our bank account opening support fee is included in this package—no additional OVZA charges.
Bank Introduction: We introduce your company to a reputable bank we work closely with and provide hands-on guidance throughout the application process.
Premium
$1,650
Annual Renewal: USD 900
Everything in the Standard and Basic Packages Included: Includes full company formation, one initial bank application, and our standard bank account support.
Premium Bank Support – Up to 5 Applications: We apply to up to 5 different banks on your behalf, stopping as soon as the first approval is received.
All OVZA Application Fees Covered (Up to 5 Banks): Our bank account opening service fees are fully covered for each application—up to five total.
Bank Matched to Your Industry or Needs: We’ll recommend and apply to banks that best suit your business model, region, or niche industry requirements.
Fast Response Time: As a Premium client, you’ll usually receive a reply from our team within 30 minutes—including during evenings and weekends.
Frequent Progress Updates: We keep you informed every step of the way with regular updates on your bank applications and overall progress.
Refund Guarantee
We offer a full refund, no questions asked, if we have not yet started the company. Read our policy
Offshore Company Incorporation Process
Steps to Register an Vanuatu Business Company (IBC)
Step 1
Select Your Service Package
Choose how you want to register a Vanuatu company. The Basic package includes Vanuatu IBC formation only. The Standard package adds one offshore bank account application, and the Premium package includes up to five account applications with priority handling. You may also decide whether to use OVZA’s trusted notary partners or provide your own notarized KYC documents.
Step 2
Complete Payment
Pay securely through our encrypted checkout system. We accept international bank transfer, credit card, and more than 300 cryptocurrencies such as Bitcoin, Ethereum, USDT, and USDC. Once confirmed, we immediately begin your Vanuatu offshore company registration.
Step 3
Submit and Verify Documents
Provide a notarized passport and proof of address for KYC compliance. If you select our notary service, legalization is handled on your behalf. Our legal team ensures everything is ready before filing your Vanuatu IBC formation.
Step 4
Finalize Company Registration
In just 24–48 hours, your Vanuatu offshore company is incorporated. You receive your Certificate of Incorporation and corporate documents electronically. If banking support is included, we proceed with your offshore bank account applications so your Vanuatu IBC is fully ready for global business.
Vanuatu KYC Requirements
In Vanuatu, all individuals and entities must submit KYC documents to complete company registration. Below, you’ll find a list of the required documents.
All Directors, Shareholders, Ultimate Beneficial Owners (UBOs), and Contact Persons are required to submit the following documentation.
Proof of Identity
A notarized true copy of a valid passport, notarized within the last 3 months, provided as a scanned copy
Proof of Address
A notarized true copy (scanned) of a proof of address is required. Acceptable documents include:
- Bank reference letter or bank statement
- Utility bill (electricity, water, gas, internet, etc.)
- Driver’s license
- Any other official document issued by a government or financial institution
The document must clearly show the holder’s full name and physical residential address in English. P.O. Box addresses are not accepted.
All documents must be dated within the last 3 months.
To verify the identity of a corporation or legal entity, company formation documents must be provided along with proof of identity for all relevant members.
Company Documents
The following certified true copies of company documents are required:
- Certificate of Incorporation
- Memorandum and Articles of Association (or Constitution)
- Register of Directors
- Register of Shareholders or Ultimate Beneficial Owners (UBOs)
Company Members
All individuals associated with the corporation—including Directors, Shareholders, and Ultimate Beneficial Owners (UBOs)—are required to provide valid proof of identity and proof of address.
Frequently Asked Questions
Is Vanuatu a recognized offshore jurisdiction?
Yes, Vanuatu is a well-known offshore jurisdiction offering favorable conditions for international business. It is particularly popular due to its zero-tax regime, straightforward regulatory environment, and flexibility in company structuring. Vanuatu IBCs are used globally for asset protection, investment holding, and international trade.
How long does it take to incorporate a company in Vanuatu?
Company incorporation in Vanuatu typically takes 5–6 business days. The process is fast and efficient when all required documents are submitted promptly, and OVZA ensures a smooth formation experience with full support.
What is the minimum number of directors and shareholders?
A Vanuatu IBC requires only one director and one shareholder, who can be the same person. Both can be of any nationality and do not need to reside in Vanuatu.
Can corporate entities act as directors or shareholders?
Yes, both directors and shareholders can be either individuals or corporate entities, allowing for flexible structuring options, including holding companies and nominee setups.
Are nominee services allowed in Vanuatu?
Are Vanuatu IBCs subject to corporate income tax?
No, Vanuatu imposes no corporate income tax on IBCs. Income earned outside of Vanuatu is completely tax-exempt, and there are no capital gains, inheritance, or withholding taxes either.
Is there any Value Added Tax (VAT) or sales tax?
Vanuatu IBCs are not subject to VAT or sales tax on international business activities. VAT applies only to local transactions within Vanuatu, which IBCs are generally prohibited from engaging in.
Do IBCs need to file tax returns or financial statements?
No, Vanuatu IBCs are not required to file annual tax returns or audited financials, provided they do not engage in local business or derive income from within Vanuatu. However, they must maintain internal records and basic financial data.
Does Vanuatu have tax treaties with other countries?
Vanuatu has limited tax treaty coverage, and most treaties do not apply to IBCs. As a tax-exempt jurisdiction, its structures are typically not used for treaty-based planning, but rather for confidentiality and global business efficiency.
Will I need to report income in my home country?
Possibly. While Vanuatu offers tax exemptions, you are responsible for reporting offshore income in your country of residence or citizenship if required by law. We strongly recommend consulting a tax advisor.
Can foreigners register a company in Vanuatu?
Yes. Vanuatu permits 100% foreign ownership of International Companies (IC/IBC) and Limited Liability Companies (LLC). There are no residency or nationality restrictions for directors, shareholders, or beneficial owners; both individuals and corporate entities may serve in all offices.
What are the ongoing compliance obligations for a Vanuatu IBC?
Vanuatu IBCs must maintain a registered agent and registered office in the jurisdiction. An annual renewal fee is also required to remain in good standing. There are no filing obligations unless the company is engaged in regulated activities.
When is the annual renewal due?
The renewal fee is due on the anniversary date of incorporation. Non-payment can result in penalties or the company being struck off. OVZA ensures timely reminders and renewal handling for our clients.
Are there any economic substance requirements?
No, Vanuatu does not currently impose economic substance requirements on IBCs that are not conducting relevant activities (like banking or insurance). This makes Vanuatu ideal for passive holding companies, asset protection, and investment vehicles.
Can a struck-off Vanuatu company be reinstated?
Yes, a Vanuatu IBC that is struck off can be reinstated, usually within a set timeframe, upon payment of outstanding fees and penalties. OVZA can assist with the restoration process if needed.
Can a Vanuatu IBC open a business bank account?
Yes, Vanuatu IBCs can open international business bank accounts in multiple jurisdictions. While domestic banking options are limited, most companies use digital banks or international financial institutions that welcome compliant offshore structures.
Which banks or fintechs accept Vanuatu IBCs?
Our clients commonly open accounts with institutions like CBiBank (USA), DNBC (Singapore/Switzerland), and 3S Money (UK). These banks provide multi-currency accounts, remote onboarding, and crypto-friendly solutions.
Is remote account opening possible?
Yes. Most banking partners allow fully remote onboarding, though some may require video verification or notarized documents. OVZA assists clients with application preparation to ensure smooth approval.
Can I open more than one account?
Absolutely. Many clients open multiple accounts across different financial institutions for diversification and operational flexibility. Our premium package includes up to five applications, stopping at the first successful one.
Are Vanuatu companies accepted by payment processors?
Some offshore-friendly processors and crypto gateways accept Vanuatu IBCs, especially if the business has a clear structure and documented operations. OVZA can advise on specific providers based on your industry.
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