WHO WE HELP

We work with individuals and entities seeking to navigate the Caribbean real estate market.

Individuals and Families

You are looking to buy, sell, develop, or invest in Caribbean real estate and are considering a relocation for lifestyle or tax purposes. You have a pre-tax income of US $250,000 or more and/or a net worth of US $1 million or more.

Family Office and HNWIs

You seek exposure to Caribbean real estate markets and difficult-to-access opportunities. You have total assets under management exceeding USD $10+ million. Your objectives include portfolio diversification, long-term growth, and accessing exclusive investment opportunities that align with your financial goals.

Institutional Investors

You and your partners aim to source, underwrite, develop, and grow a portfolio of assets in the Caribbean. You have a $100+ million portfolio and are looking for exposure to Caribbean real estate equity and/or debt. Your focus is on identifying high-potential opportunities, managing risk, and achieving significant returns through strategic investments and developments.

Antigua and Barbuda International Business Company (IBC)

Overview

Antigua and Barbuda’s International Business Company (IBC) regime offers a range of advantages for international investors and businesses seeking a tax-efficient structure. The IBC framework is designed to attract foreign investment by providing a favorable business environment with a suite of investor benefits.

 

Key Features and Benefits of Antigua and Barbuda IBCs:

  • Tax Exemptions: IBCs registered in Antigua and Barbuda are exempt from local taxes on income derived outside of Antigua and Barbuda, including exemptions from income tax, capital gains tax, and withholding tax on dividends, interest, and royalties.
  • Confidentiality: Antigua and Barbuda uphold strong confidentiality standards. The names of directors and shareholders remain private, enhancing security and privacy for business operations.
  • Flexible Corporate Structure: IBCs can operate with a single director and shareholder, who may be individuals or corporate entities, with no residency requirements for directors or shareholders.
  • No Exchange Controls: Antigua and Barbuda imposes no exchange controls on IBCs, allowing unrestricted repatriation of profits and capital across borders.
  • Minimal Reporting Requirements: IBCs are not required to file annual financial statements or undergo audits, easing compliance and reducing administrative burdens.
  • Asset Protection: The IBC framework provides robust asset protection features, ideal for holding and securing assets and intellectual property.
  • Ease of Incorporation: The incorporation process for an IBC in Antigua and Barbuda is efficient, typically completed within a few days.

Tax Summary for Antigua and Barbuda IBCs:

Tax CategoryTax Rate
Income Tax0% (on income derived outside Antigua and Barbuda)
Capital Gains Tax0%
Withholding Tax0% (on dividends, interest, and royalties)
Wealth Taxes0%
Inheritance Taxes0%

Compliance and Regulatory Requirements:

  • Registered Agent and Office: IBCs must maintain a registered agent and a registered office within Antigua and Barbuda.
  • Annual Renewal: IBCs must renew their registration annually by paying a fixed renewal fee.
  • Record-Keeping: Although IBCs are not required to file annual financial statements, they must keep accurate records to reflect the company’s financial status.

Incorporation Process:

  1. Choose a Company Name: The proposed name must be unique and not identical or similar to any existing company in Antigua and Barbuda.
  2. Prepare and Submit Documentation: Submit the Memorandum and Articles of Association, along with other required documents, to the Financial Services Regulatory Commission (FSRC).
  3. Appoint Directors and Shareholders: Provide details of the directors and shareholders, with no residency requirements for these positions.
  4. Pay Fees: Pay the incorporation and annual renewal fees to the FSRC.
  5. Receive Certificate of Incorporation: Once approved, the FSRC issues the Certificate of Incorporation, officially registering the IBC.

Applications of Antigua and Barbuda IBCs:

  • Holding Company: Suitable for holding shares in other companies, real estate, intellectual property, and other investments.
  • Trading Company: Optimized for international trade and commerce, utilizing tax exemptions on foreign-sourced income.
  • Service Company: Provides a base for offering consultancy, management, and other professional services on a global scale.
  • Asset Protection: Used to safeguard personal and corporate assets from legal disputes and creditor claims.

Conclusion

The Antigua and Barbuda IBC regime offers a robust, flexible framework for international businesses and investors seeking to optimize tax efficiency and operational flexibility. With extensive tax exemptions, confidentiality provisions, and streamlined incorporation, Antigua and Barbuda stands out as a premier jurisdiction for establishing an International Business Company.

Start Leveraging Antigua and Barbuda IBC Benefits Today

Our team has extensive experience assisting clients in establishing IBCs in favorable jurisdictions. If you are an entrepreneur or investor looking to capitalize on the advantages of the Antigua and Barbuda IBC regime, we can help design a comprehensive plan tailored to your needs, ensuring compliance and maximizing financial benefits.

Optimize Your Business Structure Now. Contact us to begin your journey towards substantial tax savings and streamlined operations with an Antigua and Barbuda IBC.

 

Frequently Asked Questions

The BVI is renowned for its tax-neutral environment, where companies are exempt from corporate, income, capital gains, inheritance, and withholding taxes. Its legal system, based on English common law, provides stability and predictability for businesses. Additionally, the BVI offers high levels of confidentiality, flexible corporate structures, and robust asset protection, making it an ideal choice for international investors and entrepreneurs seeking a secure and efficient jurisdiction.

The incorporation process in the BVI is highly streamlined and efficient. With the assistance of a registered agent, companies can typically be formed within one to three business days. This swift process requires submitting the necessary documentation, including the Memorandum and Articles of Association, along with details about directors and shareholders.

A BVI company requires at least one director and one shareholder, who can be individuals or corporate entities. There are no residency requirements, allowing global participation. While there is no minimum capital requirement, companies often issue a small number of shares initially to keep setup costs low. The flexibility in structure enables the BVI to cater to various business needs, from simple holding companies to complex international operations.

Yes, companies engaging in relevant activities, such as banking, insurance, fund management, and holding company activities, must meet economic substance requirements. This involves demonstrating effective management, control, and a physical presence within the BVI. Companies that fall under these categories need to prepare annual reports and fulfill substance tests to comply with the legislation.

While the BVI itself does not have a wide array of local banks suitable for offshore businesses, BVI-incorporated companies can easily open accounts with international banks in financial hubs like Hong Kong, Singapore, Switzerland, and London. The BVI’s reputation as a premier offshore jurisdiction ensures its companies are generally well-regarded by global banks. Opening a bank account as a BVI entity offers benefits such as access to multi-currency accounts, robust online banking platforms, and seamless international transactions. This global banking flexibility makes BVI companies ideal for conducting cross-border trade, managing investments, and safeguarding assets.

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