International Business Company
International Business Companies (IBCs) is the most prevalent and flexible offshore formation type in Seychelles. Like most offshore companies, Seychelles IBCs act as an effective vehicle to engage in international trading and investment activities.
An IBC company is not subject to tax in Seychelles (and can be considered as the equivalent of the Mauritius Authorised Company). A IBC company should not pursue business within the territory of the Seychelles (except, of course, it may enter into business with any other Seychelles IBC`s).
An IBC can conduct any business activities other than the following: banking, financial services, carrying out the business as insurance, re-insurance company, providing of registered office facilities, nominee services, directorship services, secretarial services or other services for corporations, providing trusteeship services by way of business.
Additional Info
Benefits
Seychelles has one of the fastest International Business Company (IBC) registrar in the world, where same day incorporation is available.
Minimal requirement for the incorporation of IBC.
Expanding network of Double Taxation Avoidance Agreements (DTA). 22 treaties in force as of March 2023.
Preferential access to the African and Indian Ocean markets. Member of the COMESA, SADC and the Indian Ocean Rim Association for Regional Cooperation (IOR-ARC).
Preferential access to the EU and US markets. Member of the Interim Economic Partnership Agreement (IEPA) and the African Growth and Opportunity Act (AGOA).
OECD white-listed jurisdiction.
Confidentiality and high level of privacy.
Multicultural society lives in harmony and creates business friendly environment for International Investors.
No exchange controls.
Special License Company (CSL) and International Business Company (IBC) – Comparison
The Seychelles Financial Services Authority (FSA) is the regulator of the non-banking financial sector. The main difference between the two companies is that CSL is deemed tax resident in Seychelles and enjoys the benefits of double taxation treaties.
| CSL | IBC | |||
| Residence | Seychelles, for tax purposes | No | ||
| Double taxationtreaty access | Yes | No | ||
| Corporation tax on worldwidenet income | 1.5% maximum effective rate | No | ||
| Double taxationtreaty access | Exempt | Exempt | ||
| Withholding tax on dividends, interest and royalties | Exempt | Exempt | ||
| Stamp duties on any property or share transfers and transactions | Exempt | Exempt | ||
| Requirements | CSL | CSL | ||
| Minimum number of directors | 2, for tax purposes | 1 | ||
| Minimum number of shareholders | 2, corporate or individual | 1 | ||
| Accounts | Prepare and submit unaudited accounts | Useless filling | ||