Company Registration in Vanuatu

Key Points to Remember for Vanuatu Company Formation

Don't want to suffer any delays? Make sure to know your obligations before you formally apply for the Vanuatu Company Formation, as follows:

• Hire a local agent and maintain a local address: a flexi desk or shared space.
• At least one shareholder and one director (can be an individual or corporate).
• No restriction on residency or citizenship except country sanctions.
• Full declaration of fund sources.
• KYC disclosures of all company members.
• Details of your business activities.
• Get additional approvals for forex, banking, investment, or gaming services.
• Reserve a name- provide at least three eligible names.
• Draft a trust deed or appoint a settlor/trustee for trust registration.
• Full disclosure and background checks of beneficial owners of the IC or trust.
• You can appoint a nominee for shareholders or directors.

Top Businesses for Company Registration in Vanuatu

Choosing the right activity will determine how many licenses you will need for offshore and domestic company registration in Vanuatu.

• Global Trading
• Share and Investment Holding
• IPR
• International Real Estate
• SaaS and Software Development
• Digital Marketing
• E-commerce
• Business and Tech Consulting
• Wealth Management and Family Investment
• Asset Protection
• Global Shipping and Maritime
• Forex Trading

How to Apply for Online Company Registration in Vanuatu?

Check out how to apply for Online Company Registration in Vanuatu with Corpbiz, as explained below:

1. Step 1: Appoint a Registered Agent
   You cannot register a company if you don't have a registered agent because they manage filings and coordination with the Vanuatu Financial Services Commission (VFSC). Connect with an agent through us because we have a network of over 100 top-rated agents.


2. Step 2: Select a Company Name
   Pick a name that best suits and aligns with your activity. We will help you make sure that your name doesn't resemble any existing company or IP. At least three names must be suggested during application filing, and the agent performs the search on your behalf.


3. Step 3: Prepare Documents
   Generally, documents like MOA, AOA, business activity descriptions, fund sources, KYC declarations, business address, and passports are needed during filing.


4. Step 4: Filing by the Registered Agent
   Your agent will file the application, consent forms, director/shareholder resolutions, and other supporting documents and fees with the VFSC.


5. Step 5: Get Your Approval
   Once the authority is satisfied with your application, they will share the certificate of the company registration in Vanuatu along with signed copies of your incorporation documents.


6. Step 6: Open a Bank Account
   You need a bank account to start your business- our associates will help you prepare for the bank interview and also prepare your KYC/AML paperwork and business plan. Offshore banking and fintech solutions are Wise Business, Airwallex, Payoneer, Statrys, and some EMI platforms in the UAE, Singapore, Hong Kong, Switzerland, and Mauritius.


7. Step 7: Business-Specific Registrations
   In case you are looking for a local setup, then you will need a VAT registration and a business license. As per your business activity, we will also assist you with sectoral filings if you're into forex trading, banking, or insurance-regulated activities.

What are the Common Structures for Company Incorporation in Vanuatu?

Align your business activity with the best structure for company incorporation in Vanuatu through a free discussion with one of our global experts.

• International Company: An IC or IBC is the most preferred business structure for offshore setup for activities like asset holding, investment structure, consulting services, wealth management, and e-commerce. All you have to do is just appoint an agent and enjoy the tax-free earnings. Recommended for global investors, remote businesses, and holding entities.
• Branch Office: If you already have a strong presence in your home or other jurisdiction and you are looking for an extension, then you can go for the branch office of your parent company. Mostly used by established global businesses and international trading.
• Trust: Very commonly used for family wealth management, asset protection/holding, and succession/estate planning. Connect with Corpbiz and see how we guide you to combine an IBC/IC with a trust structure. Good for you if you want privacy and confidential wealth planning.
• Foundation: You can set up a foundation for your private wealth management, global asset holding, and family office structure. Just like an IBC/IC/local company, this structure is a separate legal entity with flexible management options.
• Local Company: A domestic local company gets to operate within the country for businesses like import/export, retail, tourism, and professional service. You will need a business license along with a Foreign Investment Approval Certificate (FIAC) and a proper local address in Vanuatu.
• Partnership: Good for small entrepreneurs, joint ventures, and professionals who want shared profits and liabilities. At least two partners are required for registration. You can either go for a general or a limited partnership. The former is where all members share equally in debts and profits, and the latter is suitable where one partner wants a passive role in the firm.