BVI Company Registration
About BVI
BVI Offshore Company Registration
The British Virgin Islands (BVI) remains the world’s leading offshore jurisdiction, known for its internationally respected legal framework and efficient corporate structures. A BVI Business Company (BC) is established under the BVI Business Companies Act, which provides a tax-neutral environment with no corporate income, capital gains, or withholding taxes. This makes BVI company registration one of the most popular and versatile options for global entrepreneurs and investors.
Incorporation is fast, usually completed within 24 to 48 hours, and electronic documents are issued for immediate use. A BVI offshore company allows 100% foreign ownership, imposes no exchange controls, and does not require local directors or shareholders. This flexibility has made the BVI the go-to jurisdiction for holding companies, investment structures, and cross-border ventures.
Confidentiality remains a hallmark of BVI offshore company formation. While BVI has aligned with international standards, shareholder and director details are kept private from public registries. Combined with English common law, political stability, and decades of corporate precedent, a BVI BC offers strength and predictability for international business.
Benefits
Register a Company in BVI
Zero taxes
No corporate, income, or capital gains tax on BVI offshore companies
Quick incorporation
A BVI company can be formed in as little as 24–48 hours.
Confidentiality
Shareholder and director names are not part of public registries.
Global recognition
BVI Business Companies are widely accepted by banks, investors, and institutions worldwide.
100% foreign ownership
No local shareholders or directors required.
Flexible structuring
A BVI BC can be used for trading, holding, asset protection, or investment purposes.
Features – BVI Business Company (BC)
Offshore Company Registration in BVI
Incorporation within 2 days
Quick turnaround with electronic documents issued.
Modern legislation
BVI company law is continually updated to meet international compliance standards.
Minimal reporting
No annual audit requirements for most companies.
Transparent renewals
Straightforward, fixed fees with no hidden costs.
Ready-made companies
Shelf BVI companies available for fast setup.
Banking support
Access to international banking networks and multi-currency accounts.
Business Company
BVI Company Formation Packages
Basic
$1,500
Annual Renewal: USD 1,350
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.
This package provides all the necessary services for a foreigner to register a company in the British Virgin Islands from start to finish.
Standard
$1,650
Annual Renewal: USD 1,350
All Core Services from the Basic Package Included: This package builds on the Basic tier and includes everything needed to successfully set up your BVI business company (BVI BC) 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
$1,750
Annual Renewal: USD 1,350
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 a BVI Business Company (BC)
Step 1
Select Your Service Package
Decide which package suits your needs. The Basic package includes full BVI company registration. The Standard package adds one bank account, while the Premium package includes priority handling and up to five bank account applications. You may submit your own notarized KYC documents or choose our trusted notary services for convenience.
Step 2
Complete Payment
Confirm your order securely through our 256-bit encrypted, TLS-secured checkout. Payment options include Visa, Mastercard, mobile wallets, and more than 300 cryptocurrencies, including Bitcoin, Ethereum, USDT, and USDC. Once payment is confirmed, we immediately begin the BVI company registration process with the Registry of Corporate Affairs.
Step 3
Submit and Verify Documents
Provide a valid passport and proof of address to meet compliance standards. Our legal team reviews your KYC documentation to ensure full compliance with the BVI Business Companies Act before incorporation.
Step 4
Finalize Company Registration
Within 24–48 hours, your BVI BC is incorporated. You’ll receive your Certificate of Incorporation and company documents electronically. If banking was included in your package, we proceed directly with your offshore bank account applications, making your BVI company ready for international business.
British Virgin Islands KYC Requirements
In British Virgin Islands, all individuals and entities must submit KYC documents to complete company registration.
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.
Please note that the provided proofs must be the most recent version and dated within the last 3 months.
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
How do I register a company in British Virgin Islands (BVI)?
To register an offshore company in the British Virgin Islands (BVI), you must choose a unique company name, appoint at least one director and one shareholder, and submit the required incorporation documents to the BVI Financial Services Commission (FSC). The incorporation process typically takes one to three business days. All BVI Business Companies (BCs) are required to have a registered agent and a registered office within the jurisdiction, in accordance with the BVI Business Companies Act. The British Virgin Islands Company Register oversees the incorporation and ongoing compliance of all entities, ensuring that companies remain in good legal standing.
What are the benefits of registering a company in The British Virgin Islands (BVI)?
The British Virgin Islands (BVI) is one of the most reputable offshore jurisdictions, offering complete tax exemption for offshore companies, strong confidentiality laws, and flexible corporate structuring. BVI Business Companies benefit from no foreign exchange controls, no minimum capital requirements, and no mandatory financial reporting obligations. The jurisdiction is widely used for international trade, asset protection, investment holding, and wealth management, supported by a robust legal system based on English common law. The BVI Commercial Registry, operating under the BVI Financial Services Commission, oversees the incorporation and regulation of offshore entities, ensuring compliance with international standards while maintaining a business-friendly environment.
What types of offshore companies can I register in the British Virgin Islands?
The British Virgin Islands (BVI) offer several options for offshore company structures:
- BVI Business Company (BC): This is the most common structure, offering flexibility for various activities like international trade, investment holding, asset protection, and financial management.
- Limited Partnerships (LPs): These are suitable for specific investment ventures and partnerships.
- Segregated Portfolio Companies (SPCs): These are designed for holding diverse assets and managing risk by separating them into distinct portfolios
What documents are required to register a company in The British Virgin Islands (BVI) ?
To register a Business Company (BC) in the British Virgin Islands (BVI), you must provide a passport copy for each director and shareholder, proof of address (such as a utility bill or bank statement), the proposed company name and business structure details, and the Memorandum and Articles of Association. A licensed registered agent is required to handle the process, in accordance with regulations set by the BVI Financial Services Commission. As part of the BVI company incorporation process, these documents ensure the entity meets all legal and compliance requirements for successful registration.
Do I have to pay taxes if I register a company in the British Virgin Islands?
No, if you register a company in the British Virgin Islands as a BVI Business Company, you will be fully exempt from all local taxes. This includes:
- Corporate income tax
- Capital gains tax
- Withholding tax on dividends, interest, and royalties
This tax-free status is protected under the BVI Business Companies Act. However, it’s crucial to remember that you must still comply with the tax laws of your home country or any other country where you conduct business.
Are bearer shares permitted if I register a company in the British Virgin Islands?
No, bearer shares are not permitted when you register a company in the British Virgin Islands. As part of the BVI company registration framework, all shares must be registered in the name of the shareholder. This requirement ensures compliance with global anti-money laundering (AML) standards and international financial transparency regulations enforced by the BVI Financial Services Commission. The BVI Registry plays a key role in maintaining accurate corporate records and ensuring that all companies meet these regulatory obligations.
What is the renewal process for a company I register in the British Virgin Islands?
When you register a company in British Virgin Islands (BVI), you must renew its registration annually to maintain good standing. This involves:
- Paying the government renewal fee: The fee varies depending on the type and structure of the company.
Maintaining a registered agent and office: BVI law requires every company to have a registered agent and a registered office address within the jurisdiction.
The renewal process is monitored by the BVI Financial Services Commission, which ensures compliance with regulatory obligations. Every British Virgin Islands company must meet these requirements annually to preserve its legal status and operational continuity
Does the BVI impose taxes on offshore companies?
No, BVI Business Companies are exempt from corporate tax, income tax, capital gains tax, and inheritance tax. This tax-neutral status is one of the primary advantages of BVI company formation. The British Virgin Islands operates under a territorial tax system, meaning only businesses that conduct activities within the jurisdiction are subject to taxation. The BVI International Tax Authority oversees tax compliance, ensuring adherence to international transparency and regulatory standards.
Are there foreign currency restrictions in the BVI?
No, there are no foreign currency restrictions in the BVI. Offshore companies can conduct transactions in any currency without limitations. The US dollar is the official currency, providing stability and facilitating seamless international business transactions. The financial system is regulated by the BVI Financial Services Commission, ensuring a secure and transparent environment. This flexibility is one of the many advantages of company formation in British Virgin Island, making it an attractive jurisdiction for global entrepreneurs and investors.
Are there stamp duties or real-estate taxes in the BVI?
Yes. Non-resident companies and individuals pay:
Stamp duty on real-estate transfers or share transfers in property-owning companies at 12% (Belongers at 4%).
Land tax: Non-Belongers pay USD 50 for the first half-acre, USD 150 for the second half-acre, and USD 50 thereafter per half-acre; Belongers pay USD 10 for the first acre and USD 3 thereafter.
House tax: 1.5% of the annual rental value of residential property, paid by all owners
What are the annual compliance requirements for a BVI Business Company?
BVI Business Companies must maintain a registered agent and office in the BVI, renew their registration annually, and keep internal financial records. They are not required to file annual financial statements or undergo audits unless engaging in regulated activities such as banking, insurance, or investment fund management. Compliance requirements are set by the BVI Business Companies Act.
Is there a requirement to file annual financial statements?
No, BVI offshore companies are not required to file annual financial statements or tax returns. However, they must maintain internal accounting records for potential regulatory review, particularly if they engage in financial services. The regulatory framework is overseen by the BVI Financial Services Commission.
What ongoing compliance and reporting are required?
Annual license fee: Payable by the company’s anniversary date; no public filings.
Record-keeping: Maintain minutes, registers, and accounting records at the registered office for 5 years; no audit or financial statements filed publicly.
Economic Substance: Applies only if the BC conducts “relevant activities” in the BVI or claims local tax residence; otherwise exempt.
Beneficial-ownership: Registered agent maintains a confidential BOSS register; not publicly accessible.
Is it possible to open an offshore bank account for a BVI Business Company?
Yes, a BVI Business Company can open offshore bank accounts in major financial centers, including Switzerland, Singapore, Hong Kong, and the Caribbean. BVI is a well-regarded jurisdiction in the global financial sector, and many international banks accept BVI-registered entities. Banking institutions are regulated by the BVI Financial Services Commission.
What documents are required to open a bank account for a BVI offshore company?
Most banks require a Certificate of Incorporation, Memorandum and Articles of Association, a resolution appointing authorized signatories, passport copies of directors and shareholders, proof of address, and a business plan or nature of business statement. Banks also require compliance documents such as Know Your Customer (KYC) and anti-money laundering (AML) records, in accordance with regulations set by the BVI Financial Services Commission.
Can a BVI Business Company open a bank account remotely?
Yes, many offshore banks allow BVI Business Companies to open accounts remotely without requiring a physical visit. The process varies by bank but generally includes submitting notarized or apostilled documents, video verification, or an introduction from a corporate service provider. Some banks may also require a reference letter from an existing financial institution.
Offshore banking regulations are overseen by the BVI Financial Services Commission.
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