St Kitts & Nevis
Setting up a Holding Company in Nevis

Advantages and Tax Benefits

Saint Kitts & Nevis (“Nevis”) is a distinguished financial hub that adheres to international standards concerning tax and financial affairs. Moreover, it provides a favorable political and economic climate as a member of the British Commonwealth, enjoying recognition from international bodies like the OECD and the Financial Action Task Force (FATF).

The Nevis International Business Companies (“IBC”) serve various purposes, including acting as holding companies, facilitating wealth planning, tax optimization, asset protection, and investment management. However, these entities are restricted from conducting business within Nevis territory or engaging in activities such as real estate development, banking, insurance, or investment funds.

The IBC presents several advantages:

• Business operations of the IBC can be conducted outside Nevis territory, eliminating the need for physical presence on the island.
• Directors, shareholders, or other officers are not required to be residents of Nevis.
• Entities such as companies or trusts are eligible to serve as directors, shareholders, or officers.
• Nevis does not maintain a public register of shareholders, officers, or ultimate beneficial owners, despite its participation in the OECD’s Common Reporting Standard (CRS) initiative.
• The IBC is exempt from taxes on foreign income and is not subject to any taxes within Nevis, including income tax, asset tax, gift tax, inheritance tax, capital gains tax, dividend distribution tax, and stamp tax.

In summary, the Nevis Business Corporation Ordinance (NBCO) governs Nevis LLCs.

Why Choosing Nevis to register a Holding Company

Asset Protection: Nevis is known for its robust asset protection laws. Assets held within a Nevis holding company may be shielded from creditors and legal judgments in other jurisdictions.

Privacy: Nevis offers a high level of privacy for company owners and shareholders. Nominee directors and shareholders can be appointed to maintain anonymity.

Tax Benefits: Nevis does not impose income tax, capital gains tax, or estate tax on income generated outside of the jurisdiction. This can result in significant tax savings for the holding company and its shareholders.

Ease of Formation: Establishing a holding company in Nevis is relatively straightforward and cost-effective compared to other jurisdictions. The registration process is efficient, and there are no residency requirements for directors or shareholders.

Stability and Reputation: Nevis has a stable political and economic environment, making it an attractive jurisdiction for international business operations. It is also well-regarded in the global business community.

Flexibility: Nevis offers flexibility in corporate structuring and governance. Companies have the option to customize their articles of incorporation and bylaws to suit their specific needs.

No Exchange Controls: There are no exchange controls in Nevis, allowing for the free movement of funds in and out of the jurisdiction.

Confidentiality: Nevis does not require the public disclosure of company directors and shareholders, offering an additional layer of confidentiality and privacy.

English Common Law System: Nevis operates under English common law, providing a familiar legal framework for many international businesses and investors.

Overall, these factors make Nevis an attractive jurisdiction for registering a holding company, particularly for those seeking asset protection, privacy, and tax efficiency.

TBA services

We have 2 decades of experience in the incorporation and management of asset holding companies, whether it be for owning property, or for other reasons such as holding an investment portfolio.

We do not simply incorporate Nevis Holding companies – we always take a client’s needs and personal circumstances into consideration before deciding upon which jurisdiction of incorporation will be best and most suitable.

Owning your assets through a company can reduce or eliminate the inheritance tax, capital gains tax and income tax, and afford confidentiality (seen as a major benefit for those clients residing in high-risk countries). Asset holding companies can also circumvent the need for the granting of probate, an often time-consuming and expensive process, and play a vital role for long term family financial planning.

We are happy to examine possibilities with you for as long as it takes, in order to find the best solution for you and your family.

Please do not hesitate to contact us for more information on how we might be able to benefit you in the ownership of your assets.