Seychelles, an independent island nation in the Indian Ocean, has become one of the world’s most widely used offshore jurisdictions, particularly for intellectual property holding, wealth protection, and international structuring. Since enacting the International Business Companies Act in 1994, Seychelles has built a corporate regime that is known for its simplicity, accessibility, and alignment with international standards. The Act remains the backbone of Seychelles offshore law, providing a reliable framework for those seeking to incorporate in a jurisdiction that values both privacy and compliance.
The Seychelles IBC law allows for 100% foreign ownership, full tax exemption on foreign-sourced income, and no requirement for local offices or resident directors. Companies formed under the Act benefit from limited liability, minimal reporting, and strong protections for shareholder confidentiality. These features have made Seychelles company formation a preferred option for clients looking to hold IP rights, operate international e-commerce platforms, or establish passive investment vehicles.
What distinguishes Seychelles is its ability to maintain regulatory flexibility while adapting to global compliance norms. While the jurisdiction does enforce beneficial ownership reporting and anti-money laundering standards, it continues to allow for efficient company formation without economic substance requirements—provided the IBC does not engage in high-risk IP licensing or other income-generating activities that would trigger international reporting thresholds.
The Seychelles offshore law framework is not only functional—it is deliberate. The International Business Companies Act remains one of the most widely adopted legal tools in the offshore sector, serving as a gateway for lawful global commerce, private asset holding, and long-term structuring strategies. In the modern offshore economy, Seychelles remains a jurisdiction of clarity, continuity, and quiet legal strength.