Seychelles International Business Company (IBC)

The Seychelles International Business Company (IBC) is one of the most widely used offshore corporate structures for international business activities. Renowned for its flexibility, confidentiality, and straightforward incorporation process, the Seychelles IBC remains a preferred vehicle for global entrepreneurs, investors, and corporate groups seeking tax-efficient solutions.

Whether used for holding assets, trade, or structuring international investments, the Seychelles IBC provides a robust and compliant framework backed by modern legislation and business-friendly practices.

Why set up a Seychelles International Business Company (IBC)

Confidentiality

No public registry of shareholders or directors

Tax Efficiency

Exempt from local corporate taxes on foreign-sourced income

Low maintenance

Minimal reporting and accounting requirements

Asset protection

Ideal for holding intellectual property or international assets

Ease of administration

No annual audits or public filing requirements

International credibility

Compliant with global AML/CFT standards

Ownership

100% foreign ownership permitted

Typical uses of a Seychelles International Business Company (IBC)

Holding company for international assets or subsidiaries

A Seychelles IBC can efficiently hold shares in global subsidiaries, consolidating ownership while benefiting from tax neutrality and streamlined corporate governance.

Trading or consulting operations across jurisdictions

Ideal for cross-border trade or consulting, the Seychelles IBC enables international invoicing, contract management, and client servicing with minimal regulatory burdens.

Intellectual property and royalty management

Use a Seychelles IBC to hold IP rights and manage royalties, offering global licensing flexibility and enhanced asset protection with tax-efficient income structuring.

Special purpose vehicles for investment structuring

Seychelles IBCs serve as cost-effective SPVs for joint ventures, project financing, and asset securitization, offering legal separation and confidentiality.

Real estate ownership abroad

A Seychelles IBC can hold international real estate assets, simplifying ownership, estate planning, and transfer while optimizing tax and liability exposure.

Private wealth and estate planning

The IBC structure supports succession planning and wealth protection, offering privacy, asset segregation, and flexible shareholding options across generations.

Regulatory framework of Seychelles IBC

Seychelles IBCs are governed under the International Business Companies Act, 2016, which has been updated to align with international transparency and compliance standards. While maintaining a high level of privacy for beneficial owners, the jurisdiction remains on the OECD whitelist and complies with the Common Reporting Standard (CRS).

The Financial Services Authority (FSA) of Seychelles is the regulatory body overseeing non-banking financial services, ensuring robust corporate governance while facilitating a competitive offshore environment.

Key characteristics of a Seychelles IBC

Incorporation timeframe

1–3 business days

Minimum shareholders

One (can be an individual or corporate entity)

Minimum directors

One (individual or corporate, no nationality restrictions)

Minimum capital requirements

Bearer shares

Not permitted

Corporate name

Corporate name must include a suffix like Ltd, Corp, Inc, etc.

Shares

Can hold shares in other companies or own real estate outside Seychelles

Bank account

May open bank accounts and operate internationally

FAQs about Seychelles IBC

Who can own a Seychelles IBC?

Any individual or corporate entity, regardless of nationality, can own a Seychelles IBC. 100% foreign ownership is permitted.

Are there any taxes for Seychelles IBCs?

Seychelles IBCs are exempt from local corporate taxes on income earned outside Seychelles.

How long does it take to incorporate a Seychelles IBC?

Incorporation typically takes 1 to 3 business days, depending on name approval and documentation.

What is the minimum number of directors and shareholders?

Only one director and one shareholder are required. They can be the same person and may be of any nationality.

Is it mandatory to appoint a local director?

No, a local director is not required. Directors can reside anywhere in the world.

Does a Seychelles IBC need a physical office in Seychelles?

No, but it must maintain a registered office and a licensed registered agent in Seychelles.

Are nominee services allowed?

Yes, nominee director and shareholder services can be used to enhance privacy and asset protection.

Are Seychelles IBCs compliant with international regulations?

Yes. Seychelles complies with global AML/CFT standards and the OECD’s Common Reporting Standard (CRS).

Can a Seychelles IBC open international bank accounts?

Yes, IBCs can open bank accounts globally, including in Mauritius, Dubai, Singapore, and Europe, subject to bank compliance.

Are there any annual compliance requirements?

Yes. While reporting is minimal, IBCs must pay an annual government fee and maintain accounting records.

Can bearer shares be issued?

No. Bearer shares are not allowed under the current legislation for transparency reasons.

Can the IBC be redomiciled to or from another jurisdiction?

Yes, Seychelles permits redomiciliation in and out of the jurisdiction, subject to specific legal procedures.

What information is publicly available?

Shareholder and beneficial owner details are not publicly disclosed, maintaining a high level of confidentiality.

How can your firm assist with setting up a Seychelles IBC?

We provide full incorporation services, registered agent support, ongoing compliance, and international bank account facilitation tailored to your business goals.