Tree
Avoid mistakes, proven solutions

Setting up a company in the Cayman Islands?

Find out how to do it compliantly:
0% personal income tax
Common law system
Fast incorporation
No local shareholders required
You can reduce your tax burden legally. We will be happy to advise you in detail and offer you a free initial consultation.
Watch video
Person
Ask a Question
(Response time under 24 hours):

Pros and cons of setting up a company abroad

If you relocate your residence:
  • No personal income tax

  • No local income tax returns, but annual filings still apply

  • Your home country may tax certain assets when you move abroad 
Without emigrating:
  • If your company is managed from your home country, it may be treated as tax resident there and taxed accordingly

  • Bank account opening requires proper documentation and setup 
What makes the Cayman Islands attractive as a business location?

The Cayman Islands are a tax-neutral British Overseas Territory in the Caribbean, south of Cuba, with around 77,000 inhabitants using the Cayman Islands dollar (KYD) as the currency almost equivalent to USD. 

Cayman Islands has no corporation tax, capital gains tax, or withholding tax on dividends. A Cayman Exempted Company allows 100% foreign ownership, no minimum share capital, and no public filing of annual accounts (though records must be kept). It’s ideal for holding structures, investment vehicles, and international wealth planning.

Economic substance rules apply depending on the activity. Cayman meets international transparency standards, was removed from the FATF grey list in October 2023, and is not on the EU blacklist.

Bank account opening is possible, requiring full KYC, source of funds, and clear economic rationale. Banking can be local or international.

Contact us for an individual assessment and potential alternative solutions.


FAQs

Are taxes in the Cayman Islands high?

No. The Cayman Islands levy 0% corporation tax, 0% income tax, 0% withholding tax, 0% capital gains tax and 0% inheritance tax.

Is it easy to obtain a VAT number?

There is no VAT system in the Cayman Islands.

Is a local director required?

Directors do not need to be resident in the Cayman Islands.

Is it possible to incorporate remotely?

Yes. Exempted companies are typically incorporated via licensed service providers, and the process can usually be handled fully remotely with KYC checks.

Are there many banking options?

Banking options do exist, but you should expect strict checks and longer processing times, especially for complex structures or where the source of funds is difficult to evidence.

Which locations worldwide are best suited to paying as little tax as possible?
Tax Burden Banking Reputation Bureaucracy Legal Security Costs
USA 21-0%
from EUR 1,900
Singapore 0%
from EUR 2,950
Hong Kong 0%
from EUR 1,900
Cyprus 15%
from EUR 1,900
Malta 5%
from EUR 2,500
Ireland 12,5%
from EUR 1,950
Trust 0%
from EUR 4,900
England 25-19%
from EUR 1,000

Tax compliance in your country of residence

Your country of residence may impose tax and reporting obligations for foreign business activities and dividend income — in some cases even if profits are not distributed.

Depending on your personal situation, a suitable holding structure may be required to comply with tax rules and avoid unnecessary tax risks.

To determine which jurisdiction and structure best meet your requirements, please use the contact form and describe your plans in as much detail as possible.

Our advisers will be pleased to review your case and advise you accordingly.

1.
Analyse your needs
We assess your situation to define objectives, risk tolerance, tax exposure and asset-protection priorities.
2.
Carry out a location analysis
We compare potential jurisdictions based on tax law, banking access, compliance requirements and your country of residence.
3.
Incorporate the company and, if needed, set up a foundation
Open accounts and custody accounts and, if required, implement the wealth management

Our advantages

Tax optimisation
Tax optimisation
Reduce your tax burden legally by 50–85% domestically and internationally.
Sustainable asset protection
Sustainable asset protection
Protect your assets over the long term against economic and legal risks.
Cross-border business models
Cross-border business models
Develop international corporate structures for greater economic freedom.
Corporate structuring & company formation
Corporate structuring & company formation
Optimise your corporate and shareholding structures for growth and tax savings.
Foundations & wealth management
Foundations & wealth management
Use tailored foundation structures for future generations.
Relocation & exit taxation
Relocation & exit taxation
We support your change of residence and help you avoid exit taxation.
Personal advice & implementation
Personal advice & implementation
Tailored solutions with personal guidance from analysis through to implementation.
Exclusive expert network
Exclusive expert network
Access to experienced tax advisers, solicitors and international business experts.

How our clients have successfully reduced their tax burden with our strategies

Comprehensive personal advice with a great result!
Conversation in Nice with our long-standing client Marco about our collaboration to date.
Marco V.
Marco V.
Conversation with Andreas Schneider
Andreas relocated to Switzerland many years ago and shares his experiences of Switzerland and of us as his trusted partner throughout the journey.
Andreas S.

W-V Law Firm LLP

Your partner for corporate law, foundations, banking and expansion
Successfully established in the market since 2013.
Advised and supported more than 2,000 clients
Advised and supported more than 2,000 clients
Leading law firm in the European region
Leading law firm in the European region
Always solution-focused and personally available
Always solution-focused and personally available