Setting up a Holding Company in Seychelles
A prime destination for
Investment and Business Endeavors

Advantages and Tax Benefits

Seychelles emerges as a prime destination for investment and business endeavors. Making investment decisions poses significant challenges, but when executed effectively, it can lead to substantial returns.

In terms of investment options, opting for an offshore holding company proves to be a prudent choice. A holding company, typically structured as an LLC or corporation, operates distinctively by abstaining from manufacturing, selling goods or services, or engaging in other commercial activities. Given the multitude of jurisdictions offering hosting services for such companies, thorough research is imperative to identify the most suitable offshore jurisdiction for establishing a holding company. Seychelles stands out as one of the premier choices for initiating a holding company due to its favorable regulatory environment and business-friendly policies.

Setting up a Holding Company in Seychelles
Tax Advantages and Benefits

Registering a holding company in Seychelles offers several tax advantages and benefits, especially for the purpose of owning shares in overseas subsidiaries.

Tax Advantages

No Corporate Tax on Foreign Income

Seychelles does not tax income earned from outside the country, including dividends, capital gains, or income from foreign subsidiaries. This is ideal for a pure holding structure.

No Capital Gains Tax

Any profits made from the sale of shares in subsidiaries or other assets held overseas are not subject to capital gains tax in Seychelles.

No Withholding Tax

Seychelles does not impose withholding tax on dividends, interest, or royalties paid to non-residents.

No Stamp Duty

Transfers of shares and other ownership interests typically do not incur stamp duties, if related to non-Seychelles assets or companies.

No Controlled Foreign Corporation (CFC) Rules

Unlike some jurisdictions, Seychelles does not apply CFC rules, which means foreign profits are not taxed in Seychelles just because they are controlled from there.

Other Benefits

Confidentiality

Seychelles offers a relatively high level of privacy, with no public register of shareholders or beneficial owners (though information must be kept with the registered agent and may be disclosed to local regulators if required).

Low Maintenance and Setup Costs

Setting up and maintaining a Seychelles International Business Company (IBC)—commonly used as a holding company—is cost-effective compared to many other jurisdictions.

No Requirement for Local Directors

A Seychelles IBC can have foreign directors and shareholders, and meetings can be held anywhere in the world.

Asset Protection

The structure can be used to shield assets from litigation, creditors, or political risk in unstable jurisdictions.

Ease of Incorporation

Incorporation is fast (often within 24–48 hours) and requires minimal documentation.

Establishing an Offshore Holding Company in Seychelles
Easy Steps

Investors familiar with the legal framework of this jurisdiction understand that both onshore and offshore companies are subject to distinct regulations. Hence, a holding company has the flexibility to adopt different structures, including that of an offshore entity, particularly when aiming to possess assets in enterprises operating beyond Seychelles. Typically, the limited liability company is the preferred choice for establishing a holding company in Seychelles, as it allows for complete foreign ownership, catering even to foreign enterprises seeking to acquire additional subsidiaries.

Seychelles provides flexibility in structuring new businesses. Only one director and one shareholder are necessary for the formation of international businesses, with the director being permitted to serve as the sole shareholder. Shareholders and directors of international business companies can belong to any nationality and reside in any country.

Setting up a company in Seychelles is a straightforward and uncomplicated process. International Business Companies typically require only 24 hours for incorporation, with English being the predominant language. Moreover, there are no stipulated minimum or maximum capital requirements for companies in Seychelles.

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 Seychelles 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.