Yes, nominee director and shareholder services are permitted in the Cook Islands. These are often used for confidentiality, provided the true beneficial owner’s details are disclosed privately to the licensed registered agent under Cook Islands AML/KYC laws.
Cook Islands IBC Formation
Register your Cook Islands IBC in 4 days with expert support and a process designed for speed, clarity, and compliance.
About the Cook Islands
Cook Islands Offshore Company Registration
The Cook Islands offers one of the most reliable and flexible options for entrepreneurs, investors, and international businesses seeking a secure, tax-free, and respected offshore structure. Operating in free association with New Zealand, the jurisdiction benefits from a stable political environment, strong legal ties to the New Zealand common-law system, and international recognition as a trusted offshore jurisdiction. It is highly regarded in the global offshore industry for its robust legal framework, specialized asset protection laws, and a zero-tax corporate environment, making it ideal for wealth management, investment holding, and global business structuring.
Registering a Cook Islands offshore company provides significant fiscal advantages, as the jurisdiction imposes no corporate income tax, no capital gains tax, and no withholding tax on foreign-sourced profits. The incorporation process is fast and fully remote; an International Business Company (IBC) is typically established in just three to four business days, with documents delivered electronically for immediate global use. The legal foundation, the Cook Islands International Companies Act, ensures modern compliance and strong investor protection under English common law, aligning with leading financial centers like the British Virgin Islands and the Cayman Islands.
Benefits
Register a Company in Cook Islands
Zero taxation
No corporate or personal income tax on Cook Islands international companies
Quick Cook Islands offshore company registration
Fast and efficient 4-day incorporation process
Full foreign ownership
No annual audits or financial reporting required for IBCs
No currency restrictions
Full confidentiality backed by strong asset protection laws
Confidentiality and privacy
100% foreign ownership permitted
Strong legal basis
Legal system founded on English common law
Features – International Business Company (IBC)
Offshore Company Registration in Cook Islands
Offshore banking support
Minimal documentation requirements
Simple compliance framework
World-class asset protection
Tax-free international operations
No exchange or currency controls
International Business Company (IBC)
Cook Islands Company Formation Packages
Basic
$1,790
Annual Renewal: USD 1,490
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 setup a new Cook Islands International Business Company (IBC) from start to finish.
Standard
$1,890
Annual Renewal: USD 1,490
All Core Services from the Basic Package Included: This package builds on the Basic tier and includes everything needed to successfully set up your Cook Islands 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
$1,950
Annual Renewal: USD 1,490
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
Cook Islands Offshore Company Registration Process
Steps to Register an Offshore Company in the Cook Islands (IBC)
Step 1
Select Your Service Package
Choose the plan that best fits your goals for setting up an offshore company in the Cook Islands.
Our Basic package covers Cook Islands IBC formation only, while the Standard package includes company registration plus one offshore bank account application.
The Premium package offers priority processing and up to five global banking introductions.
You can also choose to use OVZA’s online notary partners for instant document notarization or submit your own notarized KYC documents independently.
Step 2
Complete Payment
Once payment is made securely through our checkout system (which supports bank cards, international bank transfers, and over 300 cryptocurrencies including Bitcoin, Ethereum, USDT, and USDC) we immediately begin the process to register your Cook Islands offshore company.
Our system automatically confirms your order and routes it to our legal affairs team for fast onboarding.
Step 3
Submit and Verify Documents
Upload your passport and proof of address for compliance verification. If you select OVZA’s notary option, all document legalization is handled for you online. Otherwise, you may submit your notarized KYC documents independently.
Our legal team then reviews everything for accuracy and compliance before filing your Cook Islands IBC registration with the local registry.
Step 4
Finalize Company Registration
Within four days, your tax-free Cook Islands International Business Company (IBC) is incorporated. You’ll receive your Certificate of Incorporation and all supporting company documents electronically.
If you selected banking support, our team proceeds with your offshore bank account applications to ensure your new Cook Islands offshore company is fully operational worldwide.
Cook Islands KYC Requirements
In the Cook Islands, all individuals and entities must submit KYC documents to complete company registration. Below, you’ll find a list of the required documents to setup an offshore company in the Cook Islands
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 the Cook Islands a recognized offshore jurisdiction?
Yes. The Cook Islands is one of the world’s most reputable offshore jurisdictions, known for its strong asset protection laws, zero-tax regime, and English common-law foundation. Many global investors choose to register an offshore company in the Cook Islands (IBC) due to its reliability, privacy, and stability as an international financial center.
How long does it take to incorporate a company in the Cook Islands?
The incorporation of a Cook Islands International Business Company (IBC) typically takes 3–4 business days. OVZA ensures an efficient and fully compliant process, from document submission to issuance of the Certificate of Incorporation.
What is the minimum number of directors and shareholders?
A Cook Islands IBC requires only one director and one shareholder, who may be the same individual or corporate entity. There are no nationality or residency restrictions, allowing full foreign ownership.
Can corporate entities act as directors or shareholders?
Yes. Both individuals and corporations can serve as directors or shareholders of a Cook Islands offshore company. This flexibility allows for advanced structuring, including holding and multi-tier ownership setups.
Are nominee services allowed in the Cook Islands?
Are Cook Islands IBCs subject to corporate income tax?
No. Cook Islands IBCs are completely exempt from corporate income tax. Income generated outside of the Cook Islands is 100% tax-free, with no capital gains, inheritance, or withholding taxes applicable to international business operations.
Is there any Value Added Tax (VAT) or local tax applied?
No VAT or sales tax applies to Cook Islands offshore companies engaged solely in international business. VAT is applicable only to domestic commercial activities, which Cook Islands IBCs are not permitted to conduct.
Do IBCs need to file annual financial statements or tax returns?
No. Cook Islands IBCs are not required to file annual audited accounts or tax returns, provided they conduct business exclusively outside the jurisdiction. However, internal financial records should be maintained for corporate governance purposes.
Does the Cook Islands have tax treaties with other countries?
The Cook Islands maintains limited tax treaty relations, but these typically do not extend to IBCs. Most investors use Cook Islands structures for asset protection and international trade rather than treaty-based tax planning.
Will I need to report offshore income in my home country?
Possibly. While setting up a Cook Islands offshore company provides legitimate tax advantages, reporting obligations depend on your country of residence. Always consult your local tax advisor regarding foreign income reporting requirements.
What are the ongoing compliance obligations for a Cook Islands IBC?
Cook Islands IBCs must maintain a licensed registered agent and registered office within the jurisdiction and pay an annual renewal fee to remain in good standing. OVZA provides full compliance support and renewal management on your behalf.
When is the annual renewal due?
Renewal is due on the anniversary of incorporation. Failure to renew on time may result in penalties or the company being struck off. OVZA automatically issues reminders and handles renewals promptly to keep your Cook Islands company active.
Are there economic substance requirements?
No, Cook Islands IBCs are not currently subject to economic substance regulations unless conducting specific regulated activities such as banking, insurance, or fund management. This makes the Cook Islands an ideal choice for holding, investment, or asset-protection structures.
Can a struck-off Cook Islands company be reinstated?
Yes. A Cook Islands IBC that has been struck off can be reinstated by paying the outstanding fees and penalties within the statutory timeframe. OVZA assists clients with reinstatement applications to restore corporate status efficiently.
Can a Cook Islands IBC open an offshore bank account?
Yes. Cook Islands IBCs can open international business bank accounts in various jurisdictions worldwide. While local options are limited, OVZA works with global banks and fintechs that welcome Cook Islands-registered companies.
Which banks or fintechs accept Cook Islands IBCs?
We regularly assist clients in opening accounts with 3S Money (UK), DNBC Financial Group (Singapore/Switzerland), and CBiBank (USA) — all offering multi-currency accounts, remote onboarding, and crypto-friendly services.
Is remote account opening available?
Yes. Most of our banking partners support fully remote account opening, though some may request notarized KYC documents or video verification. OVZA coordinates the entire application process to maximize approval success.
Can I open multiple bank accounts for one Cook Islands company?
Absolutely. Many clients open multiple bank or EMI accounts for operational flexibility and financial diversification. OVZA’s Premium package includes up to five simultaneous banking applications, stopping once the first is approved.
Do payment processors accept Cook Islands companies?
Yes. Several offshore-friendly payment processors and crypto gateways accept Cook Islands IBCs, provided they meet compliance standards. OVZA can guide you to reliable payment solutions suitable for your business model.
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