Company Formation in British Virgin Islands
Company registration in the British Virgin Islands: fast and cheap. Discover our BVI company formation services, including a bank account.
- No taxation
- High privacy for directors & shareholders
- Top popular offshore jurisdiction
- No reporting requirements
Consulting team dedicated into advising the best suitable jurisdiction for your project.
Corporate finance specialist and expert about FinTech regulations worldwide.
Cost of Company Formation in the British Virgin Islands (BVI)
Our packages include all the necessary legal services to register a company in the British Virgin Islands at your terms.
Consulting team dedicated into advising the best suitable jurisdiction for your project.
+44 20 4577 0974
Corporate finance specialist and expert about FinTech regulations worldwide.
+44 20 4577 0974
Book a call with one of our legal experts and receive guidance on BVI companies. For free.
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Initial consultation with an expert
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Turnkey Company Formation
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Company contact person
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Registered legal company address for 1 year
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Remote incorporation
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Notary Services
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Company Secretary
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Nominee Shareholder
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Nominee director
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Accounting for 1 year
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Long-term POA
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Apostilled set of documents
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Additional legal support
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Corporate Account
Start your business company in the British Virgin Islands with this basic package.
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Initial consultation with an expert
-
Turnkey Company Formation
-
Company contact person
-
Registered legal company address for 1 year
-
Remote incorporation
-
Notary Services
-
Company Secretary
-
Nominee Shareholder
-
Nominee director
-
Accounting for 1 year
-
Long-term POA
-
Apostilled set of documents
-
Additional legal support
-
Corporate Account
Full turnkey company formation and support in all necessary aspects. Customized pricing!
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Initial consultation with an expert
-
Turnkey Company Formation
-
Company contact person
-
Registered legal company address for 1 year
-
Remote incorporation
-
Notary Services
-
Company Secretary
-
Nominee Shareholder
-
Nominee director
-
Accounting for 1 year
-
Long-term POA
-
Apostilled set of documents
-
Additional legal support
-
Corporate Account
Getting started with IBC company registration in the BVI
The British Virgin Islands is one of the top offshore jurisdictions from all corners of the world. BVI company setup is done through a clear process and provides entrepreneurs with notorious benefits. Most notably, the cost of a BVI company formation is very competitive in comparison to other IBC offshore jurisdictions. LegalBison strives to provide its clients with the best prices of the market, without compromising on service quality.
International Business Companies in the British Virgin Islands provide businesses with beneficial taxation, hands-free regulation to operate, and the prestige of one of the best-reputed offshore countries on the globe. Below are compiled just a few of the main benefits of BVI company formation and bank account opening.
- Duration
- Taxes
- Prestige
- Reporting Requirements
- Apostille
How long to set up a British Virgin Islands company
Setting up your company in the BVI is very fast. In just two to five business days, the legal entity will be ready to work.
Taxation of offshore companies in the British Virgin Islands
In regard to corporate income tax in the BVI, companies enjoy a tax-free environment, allowing them to reinvest their profits fully without the burden of corporate taxes.
BVI IBCs are therefore exempted from all forms of taxation. In addition to the income tax, this includes interest gains tax, withholding tax, VAT/GST, etc.
To ensure that an offshore company in the BVI is eligible for this tax-free advantage, it’s essential that the business operations extend beyond the country. Engaging in international commerce allows businesses to leverage the BVI’s tax-neutral stance. That is to say that profits generated from doing business within the soil of the Islands will lead to the taxation of the income generated.
The British Virgin Islands don't have double taxation agreements.
Tax information exchange agreements (TIEA) are enforced with the following countries: Aruba, Australia, China, Czech Republic, Denmark, Faroe Islands, Finland, France, Germany, Greenland, Iceland, Ireland, Netherlands, Netherlands Antilles, New Zealand, Norway, Portugal, Sweden, the United Kingdom, and the United States.
British Virgin Islands: A Prestigious Offshore Jurisdiction
In the realm of offshore jurisdictions and tax havens, certain countries such as the British Virgin Islands set themselves the highest possible standards. As a consequence, the BVI became one of the most reputed and prestigious jurisdictions for offshore business.
Beyond these major worldwide companies, the British Virgin Islands also attracts high-level financial services providers. Recently, the BVI issued its own crypto licensing framework, now regarded as being fully trustworthy and indicative of an aggressive business development plan. In addition to benefitting from advantageous business conditions, crypto companies in the BVI are also regarded by their communities as being highly promising prospects. Such a form of communication is highly desirable in the web3 environment, where public opinion can easily drive a project's value up.
Financial Reporting Requirements for Companies in the BVI
Companies registered in the British Virgin Islands are liable to keep books, though the accounting information can remain private. There is no need for BVI companies to prepare yearly financial statements and reports, however, they shall be able to provide evidence on the financial status of the company in case of an audit.
The companies registered in the BVIs are not liable to do any reporting on a regular basis, beyond the obligation to have proper accounts held in private.
BVI as Part of the Hague Convention
The BVI’s observance of the Hague Convention simplifies the legalization of foreign documents through the Apostille system.
Concretely speaking, this means that companies and projects willing to incorporate in the British Virgin Islands will save time and money, as they won't have to undergo the process of notarization and potentially translation of their corporate and personal documents.
How did it go with LegalBison? See what our clients said
Quick set-up and straightforward process. It was a smooth process, we are happy to have chosen LegalBison as our Partner for incorporations, globally.
Very proactive, responsive, and able to provide solutions and advice. The firm is familiar with the new industry of blockchain and cryptocurrency
We are happy to cooperate with LegalBison for more than 2 years and during this time they definitely secured a reputation of very professional and reliable partner. Great knowledge, competence and good attitude. Keep up the good work!
Best company for Crypto Licenses! Kudos to the team for making the incorporation of our company really smooth
The team of LegalBison was very helpful and fast in supporting my company’s structural set up. They are undoubtedly top-level experts when it comes to licensing and registrations in the crypto and web3 industry. Highly recommend!
I highly recommend Legal Bison to any entrepreneur or business seeking top-notch services for their company formation. Their commitment to excellence and customer satisfaction is truly commendable.
As a result of the fruitful cooperation with LegalBison, Yellow Card obtained a VASP registration, fast and without any legal complications.
LegalBison excels at adapting to challenges and demonstrates a perfect understanding of our business needs.
LegalBison helped us navigate a space that’s often uncertain and complex, which gave us the confidence to move forward with our project.
Popular business models for companies registered in the British Virgin Islands
Launching an ICO in the BVI
In the crypto sphere, the British Virgin Islands have gained popularity among token issuers for its practicality, low cost and favorable legal environment.
Performing an initial coin offering (ICO) in the BVI is very advantageous in terms of costs, go-to-market duration, privacy and advantages such as the absence of taxation. However, properly doing a BVI token sale require minute legal preparation. Our legal team has now accompanied hundreds of coin issuers in the BVI and is ready to provide you with tailor-designed legal services for you to simply issue your token in the British Virgin Islands.
BVI holding companies
In the BVI, holding companies serve as a strategic cornerstone, enabling the consolidation of assets and other companies under one umbrella. This structure is particularly advantageous for entities looking to manage their investments and holdings across various onshore jurisdictions. The BVI holding company acts as a trust, offering a discreet and efficient way to link distinct business interests while maintaining the utmost confidentiality.
Forming a trust in the British Virgin Islands
Trusts serve an important role in asset protection and estate planning, and while the BVI does not permit the creation of offshore trusts per se, the jurisdiction is still highly observed for these purposes. The transfer of asset ownership to a trust means that the original owner no longer needs to declare or pay taxes on these assets, just proof that the BVI is an ideal location for those businessmen seeking to protect their investments.
Financial services in the British Virgin Islands
The BVI’s financial services sector is robust and well-regulated, offering a secure environment for activities such as crypto exchange platforms and investment funds. The jurisdiction’s reputation in this domain is strong, though it is merely one aspect of the comprehensive financial services available.
Asset management with a BVI company
Asset management is commonly used by BVI companies, which are often chosen to hold financial assets, intellectual property, and other significant holdings. The BVI provides a conducive environment for managing these assets on behalf of individuals or other companies, ensuring discretion and efficiency.
Running an e-commerce business in the BVI
The BVI is an ideal location for e-commerce businesses, presenting excellent conditions for global operations without the necessity of a physical presence. The jurisdiction’s business-friendly policies and strategic location make it a leading choice for e-commerce entities looking to operate on an international scale.
- Token Issuance
- Holding Company
- Trust
- Financial Services
- Asset Management
- E-Commerce
Launching an ICO in the BVI
In the crypto sphere, the British Virgin Islands have gained popularity among token issuers for its practicality, low cost and favorable legal environment.
Performing an initial coin offering (ICO) in the BVI is very advantageous in terms of costs, go-to-market duration, privacy and advantages such as the absence of taxation. However, properly doing a BVI token sale require minute legal preparation. Our legal team has now accompanied hundreds of coin issuers in the BVI and is ready to provide you with tailor-designed legal services for you to simply issue your token in the British Virgin Islands.
BVI holding companies
In the BVI, holding companies serve as a strategic cornerstone, enabling the consolidation of assets and other companies under one umbrella. This structure is particularly advantageous for entities looking to manage their investments and holdings across various onshore jurisdictions. The BVI holding company acts as a trust, offering a discreet and efficient way to link distinct business interests while maintaining the utmost confidentiality.
Forming a trust in the British Virgin Islands
Trusts serve an important role in asset protection and estate planning, and while the BVI does not permit the creation of offshore trusts per se, the jurisdiction is still highly observed for these purposes. The transfer of asset ownership to a trust means that the original owner no longer needs to declare or pay taxes on these assets, just proof that the BVI is an ideal location for those businessmen seeking to protect their investments.
Financial services in the British Virgin Islands
The BVI’s financial services sector is robust and well-regulated, offering a secure environment for activities such as crypto exchange platforms and investment funds. The jurisdiction’s reputation in this domain is strong, though it is merely one aspect of the comprehensive financial services available.
Asset management with a BVI company
Asset management is commonly used by BVI companies, which are often chosen to hold financial assets, intellectual property, and other significant holdings. The BVI provides a conducive environment for managing these assets on behalf of individuals or other companies, ensuring discretion and efficiency.
Running an e-commerce business in the BVI
The BVI is an ideal location for e-commerce businesses, presenting excellent conditions for global operations without the necessity of a physical presence. The jurisdiction’s business-friendly policies and strategic location make it a leading choice for e-commerce entities looking to operate on an international scale.
Full process: Incorporation in the British Virgin Islands in 2025
The process of registering a company in the British Virgin Islands from scratch is straightforward and fairly simple. We broke it into three separate steps, each of them requiring minimal to no involvement from your side, as your legal partner manages the entire procedure.
PROJECT PREPARATION AND PLANNING
From defining the company’s strategic role in the market to selecting a resonant name and structuring your shareholder framework, our expertise ensures that every detail is meticulously planned. We provide comprehensive support in gathering and legalizing all necessary documentation, ensuring that your foundation is solid and compliant with BVI regulations.
At this stage, a few basic documents will be required to start the incorporation, as well as a company name to register.
INCORPORATION OF YOUR COMPANY IN THE BRITISH VIRGIN ISLANDS
Our dedicated team manages the entire process, providing you with regular updates and ensuring that every step is executed with accuracy.
Upon completion, you will receive a complete set of corporate legal documents, marking the successful incorporation of your BVI company.
BANK ACCOUNT OPENING FOR YOUR BVI COMPANY
As an offshore tax haven jurisdiction, the British Virgin Islands companies are flagged as highly risky by banking institutions. Account opening is notoriously complicated for BVI International Business Companies.
While we cannot promise guaranteed success due to stringent banking regulations, our expertise significantly simplifies the process. We provide tailored assistance to open BVI bank account at every step of the way, aiming to facilitate a favorable outcome for your banking needs.
IBC company formation in the BVI
Get in touch with a company formation specialist today and lay down your plan. Receive professional advice and a quotation for your offshore company in the British Virgin Islands with a BVI bank account.
British Virgin Islands company formation in details
The British Virgin Islands (BVI) offer a beneficial process for company formation, renowned for its business-friendly environment and financial privacy. The BVIs offer a positive economic climate, with a smooth IBC incorporation process, favorable taxation policies, and a robust legal framework. This combination of features makes the BVI an ideal jurisdiction for businesses looking to optimize their operations and financial strategies.
With LegalBison, the direction through the BVI’s company formation is hassle-free. Our expertise ensures the safe and efficient formation and start of your business in the British Virgin Islands. It starts with a consultation, as our experts will gladly answer your questions and draw a tailored roadmap for your project of British Virgin Island IBC.
How to register a company in the British Virgin Islands: full process
BVI offshore company formation requires minimal documentation for company formation, with no minimum share capital, making the process simple and straightforward. In practice, the minimum documents to start a company in the British Virgin Islands are a scan of the passport of the ultimate beneficial owner or owners and a company name. The process is conducted remotely, as LegalBison provides you with a standardized Power of Attorney, so you don’t have to visit the country to finalize the incorporation.
British Virgin Islands offshore company formation allows for remote incorporation, enabling entrepreneurs to establish their companies from any location. The registration process of an IBC in the BVI is fast and efficient, with LegalBison managing every aspect, from project planning to the finalization of corporate legal documents and opening of a BVI offshore bank account.
Accounting and auditing requirements for companies registered in the British Virgin Islands
Accounting & auditing requirements are significantly reduced for offshore companies in the BVI, simplifying the financial management of your business.
No accounting or auditing is required for a BVI company. Companies are encouraged to hold financial statements, meeting minutes, and records, but nothing is to be reported to the BVI administration. A BVI company shall still hold a record of its directors, shareholders, and members in its registered office, as per the law.
Registry of companies and UBO in the British Virgin Islands
The BVI maintains a registry of companies. The registry also keeps track of directors, ensuring transparency and adherence to international standards.
Shareholder information is also publicly accessible, providing clarity and confidence in the corporate governance of BVI companies.
The BVI allows the use of nominee services, offering an additional layer of privacy for company owners.
Economic substance requirements in the British Virgin Islands
The BVI mandates certain economic substance requirements, such as maintaining a local registered address, to ensure compliance with international regulations.
Officially, a BVI company needs to have economic substance. This implies the following:
- the activities are conducted and managed in the Virgin Islands;
- has physical offices, employees, and expenses in the BVI, suitable for the company’s activity;
- its core income-generating activity is carried out within BVI.
LegalBison offers help with all of the above requirements. We assist and are local on the ground. Speak now for free with one of our consultants to get your business started.
Residency Requirements of Shareholders and Directors in the BVI
In the BVI, there are no residency requirements for shareholders and directors of companies. This flexibility allows for global operations and management from any location, which is particularly advantageous for international businesses and investors.
However, with the introduction of economic substance regulations, having some level of management and control within the BVI can be beneficial. It can help demonstrate that the company has a genuine economic presence in the jurisdiction, which is increasingly important under international tax standards.
How to open a bank account for a company registered in the British Virgin Islands
Opening a bank account for a company registered in the British Virgin Islands can prove difficult. Offshore banking is not as open as it used to be, and proper guidance may be required for successful account opening.
LegalBison offers assistance with banking services in the BVI, facilitating the process of opening bank accounts for your company.
About the different types of companies in the British Virgin Islands
The main company types for incorporation in the British Virgin Islands cover a wide range of uses and interests. Though the famous International Business Company (IBC) is the most popular form, as it is the go-to company type for offshore business, there are noteworthy alternatives, depending on your project. Do not hesitate to reach out to an expert for more details on the matter.
- International Business Companies (IBC): IBCs are a popular choice for international trade and investment;
- Trust: Trusts are used for asset protection and estate planning;
- Foundation: Foundations serve as an alternative to trusts, offering unique benefits for asset management.
For further details and assistance with BVI company formation, LegalBison is here to help. Drop us a line to see how we can back your business ambitions in the BVI. Let’s turn your company’s aspirations into an authentic success story.
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About company registration in British Virgin Islands
The cost of an offshore company in the British Virgin Islands and of a BVI offshore bank account depends on the planned activity and a few other factors. To help you navigate these questions very fast and provide you with a detailed price as soon as possible, we encourage you to get in touch with our legal consulting team today.
BVI token issuance is very popular among web3 entrepreneurs, thanks to very advantageous conditions. A BVI token sale is easy and significantly cheaper than in other jurisdictions. However, a proper preparation is required for the BVI ICO to run smoothly. We encourage token issuers to contact our legal experts for a personalized assessment.
BVI is a very reputed and famous offshore jurisdiction. However, its economic substance requirements are basically a threshold that means you have to put in the investment to benefit from BVI’s advantages. This levels up an investment to a real office, to employees, and even to local expenses for doing business. BVI is therefore more suitable for projects having a higher budget.
Absolutely, the BVI is known for its tax-neutral environment, which is a huge draw, but this can make opening a bank account a bit time-consuming. That’s why our team is on hand to help to smoothen the process. However, with the implementation of tax information exchange agreements and the requirement for economic substance, BVI has been whitelisted by both the OECD and the EU.
Yes, it is possible to apply for a BVI crypto license. Our legal team has worked hard to provide our clients with a streamlined service to get the crypto license in the British Virgin Islands with minimum hassle. We encourage you to contact us for more details about the process and cost of a BVI VASP license.
A holding company in the British Virgin Islands is a legal entity that acts as an umbrella. This umbrella covers other legal entities and assets, to benefit from the business advantages of the British Virgin Islands. It is possible for example, with accounting practices, to legally shift profits from a high tax jurisdiction to the holding company in the BVI for tax planning.
Note: LegalBison do not offer tax advice.
No, they don’t have to. The BVI administration doesn’t require any form of reporting.
Yes. Your IBC company can relish tax-free benefits in the BVI, which is great for the business. Best to consult our experts to get the whole picture, though.
There’s no minimum share capital required for a BVI company. You can get your BVI business off the ground without a big initial investment.
Both are fantastic for business, each with unique features but you’ll want the one that fits you best. Give us a call and we’ll help you sort it out.
It would only take two (2) days and can be done remotely. But every case is unique, so let’s talk about yours. Contact form can be found below.
Contact us about BVI company formation
Inquire about BVI company formation cost and process directly with our consultants. Benefit from a dedicated consultation and a quote tailored to your budget and business needs. Get an answer within 24 business hours.
Send a request now and get your BVI company with a bank account in less than 10 business days.
Consulting team dedicated into advising the best suitable jurisdiction for your project.
Corporate finance specialist and expert about FinTech regulations worldwide.
