Seychelles Offshore Company Formation

What is Seychelles Offshore Company Formation?

A Seychelles Offshore Company, officially called an International Business Company (IBC), is established under the International Business Companies Act of 2016 and regulated by the Financial Services Authority (FSA). It is designed exclusively for international trade and investment, allowing 100% foreign ownership, minimal reporting, and zero tax on foreign income. With more than 246,000 IBCs incorporated, Seychelles is among the world’s most preferred offshore destinations for entrepreneurs, consultants, e-commerce operators, asset holders, and investors seeking confidentiality, flexibility, and tax efficiency.

Benefits of Seychelles Offshore Company Formation

Zero Tax on Offshore Income

Seychelles IBCs enjoy territorial taxation, meaning only local income is taxed while global profits, dividends, and capital gains remain exempt allowing companies to maximize retained earnings and optimize cross-border structures.

Confidentiality & Asset Protection

Shareholder and director identities are not publicly disclosed, with details held securely by the registered agent. Robust privacy laws safeguard beneficial owners, while assets are legally separated from personal liabilities, enhancing wealth protection.

Fast & Cost-Efficient Setup

Incorporation is possible within 24 hours once documents are submitted. A flat government fee of just US$150 applies regardless of capital size, and there is no paid-up capital requirement, making Seychelles one of the most cost-effective offshore jurisdictions.

Flexible Corporate Structure

Only one shareholder and one director are required, who may be the same person of any nationality. Remote meetings are permitted, various share classes can be issued, and redomiciliation is possible for companies relocating from other jurisdictions.

No Exchange Controls

Seychelles imposes no foreign exchange restrictions, allowing companies to freely transact in multiple currencies. This ensures easy international transfers, offshore banking, and smooth cross-border investment management.

Global Reputation & Stability

Seychelles offers a secure legal framework combining English common law and French civil law, backed by political stability and modern legislation aligned with international standards. Its credibility adds strength to offshore business operations.

Permitted Business Activities

Legal Entities in Seychelles Offshore Formation

International Business Company (IBC)

The most popular offshore entity, requiring at least one shareholder and director. It enjoys complete foreign ownership, limited liability, flexible governance, and zero taxation on foreign-sourced income.

Special Licence Company (CSL)

Used when access to Seychelles’ tax treaties is needed. CSLs require local substance and pay a 1.5% business tax, making them suitable for specialized tax planning rather than pure offshore structuring.

Trusts & Foundations

Designed for succession planning, wealth protection, and charitable purposes. These vehicles can hold assets or shares in IBCs, remain fully tax-exempt, and offer long-term estate planning benefits.

Protected Cell Companies (PCCs)

Allow segregation of assets and liabilities into distinct “cells” within a single company. Mainly used in investment funds, captive insurance, and structured finance where risk separation is critical.

Limited Partnerships

Typically used for fund structures and private equity. They require a general partner and limited partners, offering flexible fund management while maintaining tax neutrality for offshore operations.

Types of Licenses Available

Certificate of Incorporation (Standard IBCs)

The primary authorization for IBCs, serving as proof of incorporation. No additional license is required for most offshore activities such as trading, holding, or consultancy.

Securities Dealer License

Mandatory for IBCs engaged in forex, brokerage, investment management, or securities trading. It requires minimum capital, qualified management, and FSA approval.

Corporate Service Provider License

Required for entities offering registered agent, nominee, trustee, or fiduciary services. Strict compliance and AML obligations apply, reserved for professional firms.

Insurance, Mutual Fund & Banking Licenses

Granted for highly regulated sectors such as offshore insurance, private banking, and collective investment schemes. They demand capital adequacy, local offices, and ongoing audits.

No License for Passive Holding or Consulting

IBCs conducting asset holding, consultancy, or IP licensing outside Seychelles do not require special licenses beyond incorporation, keeping operations streamlined and cost-effective.

Step-by-Step Setup Process

Step 1: Name Reservation

Select a unique company name, avoiding restricted terms, and reserve it with the Seychelles Registrar after clearance checks.

Step 2: KYC & Document Preparation

Submit certified IDs, proof of address, CVs, and activity descriptions. Draft Memorandum & Articles of Association aligned with IBC Act 2016.

Step 3: Filing & Approval

Documents are filed via a registered agent with the FSA. Incorporation is typically approved within one business day.

Step 4: Post-Incorporation Services

Issue share certificates, appoint nominees if required, and arrange offshore bank accounts with multi-currency facilities.

Step 5: Compliance & Renewal

Maintain accounting records, send copies to agents bi-annually, and renew the IBC annually to remain in good standing.

Documents Required

Certified passport copies of all shareholders and directors.
Proof of residential address (utility bill or bank statement).
CV or professional profile of each beneficial owner.
Bank reference letter or financial introduction.

Business plan or activity description outlining operations.
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Additional KYC documents such as bank statements or tax ID, if required.
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All documents translated into English and apostilled if issued abroad.
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Why Choose DSA?

Offshore Incorporation Expertise

Licensed Corporate Service Provider

Global Banking Coordination

Full Compliance & Record Management

End-to-End Advisory & Setup

Ongoing Renewal & Support

Frequently Asked Questions

Yes. Offshore banks accept Seychelles IBCs as corporate clients, offering multi-currency and international accounts.

No. Director and shareholder details remain private, with only the registered agent retaining records for compliance.

Most IBCs are incorporated within 24 hours, making Seychelles one of the fastest offshore jurisdictions globally.

No. IBCs cannot own property in Seychelles if they wish to retain zero-tax offshore status.

IBCs with no Seychelles-sourced income are exempt from filing reports but must maintain internal accounting records.

No. There is no minimum paid-up capital, and government fees remain flat regardless of capital size.

Yes. A single individual can act as both shareholder and director, with no residency restrictions.

Yes. Nominee directors and shareholders are permitted and commonly used for confidentiality and asset protection.

Yes. Foreign companies can migrate to Seychelles without losing legal continuity, contracts, or branding.

Absolutely. Seychelles offers a strong legal system, political stability, and international compliance, ensuring a reliable offshore base.