Register a Company in Samoa
Register a company in Samoa in 2-3 days with tax advantages, strong asset protection, and expert guidance for an efficient incorporation process
Benefits
Register a Company in Samoa
No taxes for offshore corporations.
Guaranteed complete corporate confidentiality.
No annual reporting requirements.
Stable government and economy over many years.
Has never participated in double tax treaties.
Member of the United Nations, the South Pacific Forum, the Asian Development Bank, and the World Bank.
Our Formation Packages
Basic
US$690Annual Renewal: USD 710
- • 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 Samoa International Company (IC) from start to finish.
Standard
US$790Annual Renewal: USD 710
- • Everything in the Basic Package: Includes comprehensive services for setting up a Samoa International Company (IC).
- • Bank Account Opening: Assistance with opening a bank account.
- • One-Time Application Fee: Covers the application fee for one bank account.
- • Bank Account Introduction: Introduction service to any bank on the supported list.
- • Certificate of Incumbency: Provided if required.
Premium
US$900Annual Renewal: USD 710
- • Everything in the Standard Package: Includes all the comprehensive services provided in the standard package.
- • Premium Banking Support: Enhanced support for bank account services.
- • One-Time Application Fee: Covers the application fee for up to 5 banks or until the account is successfully opened, whichever comes first.
- • Consulting on Alternatives: Expert advice on suitable alternatives if the initial application is not approved.
- • Remote Bank Account Opening: Facilitates opening a bank account remotely.
- • Fast Response: Prompt assistance available even on weekends.
- • Frequent Updates: Regular updates on the bank account opening process to keep you informed.
Offshore Company Incorporation Process
KYC Documents Checklist
KYC documents are essential to verify the identity of individuals and corporations in Samoa. If you’re looking to register a company in Samoa, below you’ll find a list of the required documents
The following proofs are required for all company members including Directors, Shareholders, Ultimate Beneficial Owners (UBOs), and Contact persons.
- A certified true copy (scanned version) of the passport (valid for at least 6 months)
- A certified true copy (scanned version) of driver's license or national ID
- Bank reference letter & professional reference letter (minimum 3-year relationship), must be dated within the last 6 months and include the contact details of the issuer
- A Curriculum Vitae (C.V.), resumé, or LinkedIn profile
To establish the identity of a corporation or entity, it is necessary to provide company documents and proof of identity for its members.
Register a Company in Samoa with OVZA
Interested in registering a company in Samoa? Have questions or specific needs for your offshore venture? Reach out to us! Our team is ready to provide personalized consultations and swift responses. Leave your questions and details below, and we’ll get back to you within 1 hour.
Highly Responsive Representatives
Frequently Asked Questions
How do I register an offshore company in Samoa?
To register an offshore company in Samoa, you must choose a unique company name, appoint at least one director and one shareholder, and submit the required incorporation documents to the Samoa International Finance Authority (SIFA). The incorporation process typically takes one to three business days. All Samoa International Business Companies (IBCs) must have a registered agent and a local office within the jurisdiction to comply with the International Companies Act 1988.
What are the benefits of registering a company in Samoa?
Registering a company in Samoa provides several advantages for international businesses:
- Tax Efficiency: Samoa offers a tax-friendly environment with no corporate tax, capital gains tax, or withholding tax on dividends, interest, or royalties paid to non-residents.
- Full Foreign Ownership: 100% foreign ownership of companies is permitted in Samoa.
- Asset Protection: Strong asset protection laws safeguard your company’s assets from potential liabilities and creditors.
- Confidentiality: Samoa maintains high levels of corporate confidentiality, with no public disclosure of company ownership or directors.
- Flexible Corporate Structuring: You have flexibility in choosing the type of company structure that best suits your business needs.
- No Minimum Capital Requirements: There is no requirement to have a minimum amount of capital to register a company.
- No Exchange Controls: There are no restrictions on the movement of funds in and out of Samoa.
- Stable Regulatory Environment: The Samoa International Finance Authority (SIFA) provides a stable and secure regulatory framework for offshore businesses.
What types of offshore companies can I register in Samoa?
When you register a company in Samoa, you have several options for structuring your offshore business:
- International Business Company (IBC): This is the most common type of offshore company in Samoa, widely used for international trade, investment holding, and wealth management.
- Limited Liability Company (LLC): This structure offers flexibility and combines the benefits of a partnership and a corporation.
- Segregated Portfolio Company (SPC): This structure allows for the segregation of assets and liabilities into different portfolios within a single company.
- International Trust: This is a legal arrangement used for asset protection and estate planning.
What documents are required to register an offshore company in Samoa?
To incorporate a Samoa IBC, the required documents include a passport copy for each director and shareholder, proof of address such as a utility bill or bank statement, details of the company name and business structure, and the Memorandum and Articles of Incorporation. A registered agent licensed by the Samoa International Finance Authority (SIFA) must handle the incorporation process.
Do I have to pay taxes if I register a company in Samoa?
No, if you register a company in Samoa as an International Business Company (IBC), and it does not conduct business within Samoa, it 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 International Companies Act 1988. 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 Samoa?
Yes, Samoa is one of the few remaining jurisdictions that still allows bearer shares, but under strict regulations. If you choose this option when you register a company in Samoa, the bearer shares must be held by an approved custodian. This requirement is in place to ensure compliance with international anti-money laundering (AML) and financial transparency standards.
What is the renewal process for an offshore company in Samoa?
Offshore companies in Samoa must renew their registration annually by paying a government renewal fee and maintaining a registered agent in the jurisdiction. The renewal process is managed by the Samoa International Finance Authority (SIFA).
Does Samoa impose taxes on offshore companies?
No, Samoa IBCs are fully exempt from corporate tax, income tax, capital gains tax, and inheritance tax, provided they do not operate within Samoa. This tax-free environment is a key advantage for international investors and businesses.
Are there foreign currency restrictions in Samoa?
No, there are no foreign currency restrictions in Samoa. Offshore companies can conduct transactions in any currency without limitations, making it a flexible jurisdiction for international business operations. The financial sector is regulated by the Central Bank of Samoa.
What are the annual compliance requirements for a Samoa IBC?
A Samoa IBC must maintain a registered agent and office in Samoa, pay an annual renewal fee, and keep internal business records. There are no financial reporting or audit requirements unless the company engages in regulated activities such as banking, insurance, or financial services. Compliance is overseen by the Samoa International Finance Authority (SIFA).
Is there a requirement to file annual financial statements?
No, Samoa offshore companies are not required to file annual financial statements or tax returns. However, it is recommended that companies maintain internal records for corporate governance and potential regulatory requirements.
Is it possible to open an offshore bank account for a Samoa IBC?
Yes, a Samoa IBC can open offshore bank accounts in major financial centers such as Switzerland, Singapore, Hong Kong, and the Caribbean. Samoa also has offshore banking institutions that offer multi-currency accounts, online banking, and financial privacy. Offshore banking services are regulated by the Central Bank of Samoa.
What documents are required to open a bank account for a Samoa offshore company?
Most banks require a Certificate of Incorporation, Memorandum and Articles of Incorporation, 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 international financial regulations.
Can a Samoa IBC open a bank account remotely?
Yes, many offshore banks allow Samoa IBCs to open accounts remotely without requiring a physical visit. The process varies by bank but typically 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 services are regulated by the Samoa International Finance Authority (SIFA).
