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Set up a company in the Seychelles?

Find out how to do it in a legally compliant way:
International holding structure
0% on foreign-source income
Strong confidentiality safeguards
Clean, compliant structuring
You can reduce your tax burden legally. We will be pleased to advise you in detail and offer you a free initial consultation.
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Pros and cons of setting up a company abroad

If you relocate your residence:
  • Foreign income is generally not taxed

  • Your home country may tax certain assets when you relocate

Without emigrating:
  • Profits may still be taxed in your home country, We check this for you in the free consultation

  • Banking is typically done outside Seychelles and requires verification

What makes the Seychelles an attractive place to do business?

The Seychelles International Business Company (IBC), governed by the IBC Act 2016, is a flexible and cost-efficient offshore entity, suitable for international structuring such as consultancy or holding foreign shares. 

While the Seychelles does not have a flat 0% tax system, an IBC that earns only foreign-source income and conducts no local business activity generally faces an effective corporation tax rate of 0%.

Dividends are subject to 15% withholding tax only if derived from Seychelles-source income; otherwise, no withholding applies

VAT at 15% is triggered if annual turnover exceeds SCR 2,000,000 (approx. EUR 123,110).

Beneficial ownership information is not publicly accessible but must be disclosed to local authorities, aligning with OECD transparency standards. 

Banking is not automatically available; many IBCs open accounts in Mauritius, the UAE, or the Caribbean. Genuine business activity, traceable funds, and full KYC are essential. The legal system blends English common law and  French civil law. Despite reputational risks in the EU context, the Seychelles remain suitable for legitimate cross-border structuring without tax abuse.

Contact us for an individual assessment and, where appropriate, better alternative solutions.

FAQs

Is a local director required?

For a standard IBC, a local director is generally not required.

Is remote incorporation possible?

Generally, yes. Incorporation is typically carried out fully remotely via a licensed provider. Opening the bank account is usually the more time-consuming part of the process.

Is there an EU blacklist?

The Seychelles are currently no longer on the EU blacklist. However, previous listings may still influence the risk assessment of banks and business partners.

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, an appropriate 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 happy to review your case and advise you accordingly.

1.
Analyse your needs
We assess your situation to define goals, risk tolerance, tax exposure and priorities for asset protection.
2.
Carry out a location analysis
We compare potential jurisdictions based on tax law, access to banking, 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 asset management setup.

Our advantages

Tax optimisation
Tax optimisation
Legally reduce your tax burden by 50–85% domestically and internationally.
Sustainable asset protection
Sustainable asset protection
Protect your assets over the long term from economic and legal risks.
Cross-border business models
Cross-border business models
Develop international company 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 bespoke foundation structures for future generations.
Emigration & exit taxation
Emigration & exit taxation
We support your change of residence and help you avoid exit taxation.
Personal advice & implementation
Personal advice & implementation
Tailored solutions with personal support from analysis through to implementation.
Exclusive network of experts
Exclusive network of experts
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