Company Formation

Bahamas Company Formation

Establish your company in the Bahamas — a premier international financial centre with zero direct taxes and strong asset-protection legislation. We handle the entire process.

Why incorporate in the Bahamas?

The Bahamas imposes no corporate income tax, no personal income tax, no capital gains tax and no withholding tax. Nassau is a well-established international financial centre with over 200 banks and trust companies. The legal system is based on English common law with the UK Privy Council as the final court of appeal.

The International Business Companies Act (2000) offers IBCs with minimal reporting requirements. The Bahamas is renowned for its trust and asset-protection legislation. Located just 50 miles off the coast of Florida, it provides convenient access to the US market in a similar time zone.

0%

Direct taxes

200+

Banks & trusts

3–5 days

IBC registration

50 mi

From Florida

Zero direct taxes

The Bahamas imposes no corporate income tax, no personal income tax, no capital gains tax and no withholding tax. Revenue is raised primarily through VAT (10%) and import duties.

Premier financial centre

Nassau is a well-established international financial centre with over 200 banks and trust companies. The Bahamas is a founding member of the Caribbean Financial Action Task Force (CFATF).

Flexible structures

The International Business Companies Act (2000) offers IBCs with minimal reporting. A single director and shareholder are sufficient; there is no minimum capital requirement.

English common law

The Bahamas operates under English common law with a well-respected judicial system. The ultimate court of appeal is the UK Privy Council.

Asset protection

The Bahamas is renowned for its trust and asset-protection legislation, including the Trustee Act, the Purpose Trust Act and the Foundations Act.

Proximity to the US

Located just 50 miles off the coast of Florida, the Bahamas offers convenient access to the US market with a similar time zone (EST/EDT).

Bahamas company formation

Setup costs depend on your specific requirements. Contact us for a personalised quotation.

Bahamas Company Formation

Bahamas IBC costs vary based on the entity type, regulatory licences and any trust or foundation structures. We'll provide a detailed breakdown.

The incorporation process

A clear, guided path from first consultation to a fully registered Bahamas company.

  1. 1

    Initial consultation

    Day 1

    We discuss your objectives and recommend the optimal structure — IBC, exempted limited partnership, foundation or trust.

  2. 2

    Name search & reservation

    1–2 days

    We verify name availability with the Registrar General's Department and reserve your preferred name.

  3. 3

    Document preparation

    2–3 days

    We draft the Memorandum & Articles of Association, statutory declarations and all required forms.

  4. 4

    KYC & due diligence

    3–5 days

    We collect certified ID, proof of address, bank references and source-of-funds documentation for all beneficial owners.

  5. 5

    Registration

    3–5 days

    We file with the Registrar General. Upon approval you receive the Certificate of Incorporation and company documents.

  6. 6

    Bank account & licences

    5–14 days

    We introduce you to Bahamian banking partners and assist with any regulatory licences (Central Bank, Securities Commission) if required.

What you'll need

Comprehensive documentation — we'll guide you through every step.

Individual directors / shareholders

  • Certified copy of passport
  • Proof of residential address (< 3 months)
  • Bank reference letter
  • Professional reference letter
  • Source of funds / wealth declaration

Corporate shareholders

  • Certificate of Incorporation (certified)
  • Memorandum & Articles of Association
  • Register of directors, shareholders & UBOs
  • Certificate of Good Standing
  • Board resolution authorising the investment

Company details

  • Proposed company name (2–3 alternatives)
  • Description of intended business activities
  • Proposed share capital and structure
  • Details of proposed directors and shareholders

Advantages

  • Zero direct taxes — no corporate, income or capital gains tax
  • Premier international financial centre
  • English common law with UK Privy Council as final court
  • Strong asset-protection and trust legislation
  • Proximity to the US market
  • No minimum capital requirement for IBCs
  • Well-regulated banking sector

Things to consider

  • 10% VAT applies to goods and services
  • Annual government fees and registered-agent fees payable
  • Regulated activities require Central Bank or Securities Commission licence
  • Cost of operations can be higher than other Caribbean jurisdictions

Frequently asked questions

Is there any corporate tax in the Bahamas?
No. The Bahamas has no corporate income tax, no personal income tax and no capital gains tax. Revenue is raised primarily through VAT (10%) and customs duties.
How long does it take to form a Bahamas IBC?
Once all KYC documents are received, registration typically takes 3–5 business days.
Do I need a local director?
No. There is no requirement for Bahamas-resident directors or shareholders. However, a licensed Bahamas registered agent must be appointed.
Is the Bahamas suitable for fund structures?
Yes. The Securities Commission of The Bahamas provides a well-respected regulatory framework for investment funds, including SMART Fund templates that allow rapid fund launches.
Can a Bahamas company open a local bank account?
Yes. The Bahamas has a well-developed banking sector with over 200 registered banks and trust companies. We introduce you to suitable banking partners based on your business profile.
What are the annual requirements?
IBCs must pay an annual government fee, maintain a registered office and agent in the Bahamas and keep proper financial records. There is no requirement to file annual returns or audited accounts for standard IBCs.

Register in the Bahamas

Get a tailored quote for your Bahamas company — we'll recommend the best structure for your goals.

+852 5803 1008

Ready to set up in the Bahamas?

Speak with our team for a free consultation. We'll help you choose the right structure and handle the entire process.

+852 5803 1008