An Australian’s Guide to Register Company in British Virgin Islands (BVI)

An Australian’s Guide to Register Company in British Virgin Islands (BVI)

Being an Australian entrepreneur, you might want to establish a firm within the British Virgin Island (BVI) for tax optimization purposes. Businesses from around the world go to the BVI as the main offshore destination, and they do it for good reasons. It has numerous benefits such as tax exemption, privacy, versatility, and cost-effectiveness.

Here is a guide to register company in British Virgin Islands from an Australian perspective:

Why set up a business in the BVI

The BVI is therefore one of the popular locations where Australian companies establish their businesses. Some of the most common reasons include:

  • Tax neutrality: All forms of income generated outside the BVI are tax-free such as capital gain, dividend payment, and interest. This can be the main advantage for Australian companies which are subject to relatively high tax rates in Australia.
  • Confidentiality: The BVI observes very stringent privacy laws aimed at shielding the personal details of its directors, shareholders, and ultimate beneficial owners. It may be crucial for Australian companies that need to safeguard privacy issues or trade secrets.
  • Flexibility: BVI has different business structures and choices which make it easier for companies to find one suitable for them. This is especially useful for Australian firms trying to venture into an international market.
  • Efficiency: Business registration in BVI is very simple and fast. Contact FastLane Group for company incorporation in BVI.
Register Company in British Virgin Islands

How to set up a business in the BVI

The process of registering a company in the British Virgin Islands (BVI)  is relatively straightforward. The following are the main steps involved:

  1. Choose a company structure: BVI offers several types of corporate structures such as International Business Companies, Limited Liability Companies, and Partnerships. However, it is essential to consider that each structure has its own specific requirements and therefore what would be the best structure for one company may not be ideal for another.
  2. Choose a company name: The name of your company should be distinct and different from the names of other registered companies in BVI. Moreover, you can do online name checks using the BVI registry website.
  3. Appoint a registered agent:  All BVI companies must have a registered agent. The registered agent is responsible for receiving official correspondence on behalf of the company and maintaining the company’s statutory records.
  4. Register your company: After selecting the company structure, choosing a company name and designating a registered agent, you can register your company online at the BVI Companies Registry’s Website.
  5. Open a bank account: Upon incorporation of your company, you can open a bank with any of the local banks in the city. Ensure you compare the charges and the services from different banks since they offer different facilities and rates.

For a more comprehensive exploration, delve into our previously published article. Start Your Tax-Efficient Journey: BVI Company Incorporation Made Easy.

Tips for Australian companies setting up a business in the BVI

Here are a few tips for Australian companies setting up a business in the BVI:

  • Seek professional advice: One should consult with an attorney or an accountant prior to setting up a company in the BVI. It also ensures that you select the appropriate corporate structure, as well as adhere to the requisite statutes or legislations.
  • Be aware of the tax implications: While the BVI has a zero-tax regime for most types of income, Australian companies may still be subject to Australian tax on their BVI income. It is important to consult with a tax advisor to understand your tax obligations.
  • Be prepared for the costs: Depending on the structure of your business and the services that you need, the cost of starting a business in the BVI may vary. However, it is important to be prepared for some upfront costs, such as the cost of company registration, registered agent fees, and legal and accounting fees.

Conclusion

Starting up a business within BVI makes it an ideal option for Australian firms to expand their company’s growth or shield their valuables. Although this should be weighed against its benefits. Following these guidelines can help Australian businesses be smooth in establishing a company in the British Virgin Islands. Contact FastLane Group for seamless BVI company registration.