Gibraltar is a British Overseas Territory located south of Spain. This location has long been popular with non-resident entrepreneurs who wish to set up a company in a European jurisdiction that offers beneficial conditions. International businesses benefit a lot from its pro-business laws, political stability, and, of course, low tax rates.
Many entrepreneurs and businesses are drawn to Gibraltar offshore company formation because of the significant advantages it offers in terms of corporate structuring, tax minimization, and global access. In this article, we will look at the key aspects of Gibraltar company formation and why it has become a popular choice for international business.
Gibraltar Non-Resident Company
A Gibraltar non-resident company is a legal entity incorporated in Gibraltar that operates outside the country. This is a popular choice for global entrepreneurs as it offers low tax rates and minimized maintenance requirements. Non-resident or offshore companies based in Gibraltar take advantage of the territory’s benign taxation: the income derived outside Gibraltar is not subject to any taxes.
Gibraltar offshore companies are often used for activities such as asset protection, international trading, holding investments, and even property ownership. These companies are not subject to local corporate tax on profits earned outside Gibraltar, which explains why they are highly attractive to global entrepreneurs.
Why Choose Gibraltar for Company Formation?
- Strategic Location and British Sovereignty. Gibraltar is situated at the crossroads of Europe and Africa, providing easy access to EU and international markets. What is more, it is a politically stable country as it is a British Overseas Territory. This fact makes it a very convenient destination for companies, as any business requires stability.
- Favorable Tax Regime. Gibraltar company formation offers significant tax advantages, including a corporate tax rate of 0% on income generated outside Gibraltar. There is no VAT, capital gains tax, or wealth tax, making it an appealing jurisdiction for company formation.
- Access to EU and International Markets. Although Gibraltar is no longer part of the EU following Brexit, it retains favorable trade relationships, and businesses incorporated here can easily access European and international markets.
Key Benefits of Gibraltar Company Registration
Now let’s take a look at peculiar features that make Gibraltar a really appealing option for prospective business owners. These include a sufficient level of confidentiality protection, a straightforward incorporation process, and more.
Tax Advantages
Gibraltar’s tax regime is one of the most favorable in the world for non-resident companies. Key tax benefits include:
- Corporate tax rate: Companies that derive income outside the territory of Gibraltar are subject to a 0% tax rate.
- No VAT: Value Added Tax is not payable in Gibraltar, which is beneficial for businesses that trade on a global scale.
- No capital gains or wealth tax: Gibraltar companies are under no obligation to pay capital gains tax or wealth tax.
- Double taxation agreements: Gibraltar has signed double taxation agreements with select countries, so businesses are not taxed twice on the same income in most cases.
Business-Friendly Environment
Gibraltar offers a streamlined incorporation process, making it one of the easiest places to set up a company.
- Quick incorporation: Gibraltar company formation may take as little as five working days, provided all documents are in order.
- Flexible corporate structure: Non-resident companies can have a single shareholder and director, which simplifies the management structure.
- Access to world-class banking services: Gibraltar’s financial services sector is highly developed, so companies have easy access to banking, investment, and online services.
Confidentiality and Privacy
Privacy is one of the key factors that make Gibraltar a preferred jurisdiction for company formation.
- Anonymity for shareholders and directors: Gibraltar offers a high level of privacy for company owners, with minimal public disclosure. Still, keep in mind that non-resident companies are required to submit the information about directors and shareholders to the register of companies.
- Secure banking and data protection: The banking system in Gibraltar keeps its security standards on a high level when it comes to company details and transactions.
Political and Economic Stability
As a British Overseas Territory, Gibraltar benefits from the stability and legal certainty of the UK’s regulatory framework.
- Strong legal system: Gibraltar follows English common law, which provides companies with a well-established and reliable legal framework.
- Stable economy: The main receipts to the jurisdiction’s budget come from the financial sector, gambling field, and ships.
How to Register a Gibraltar Offshore Company
Our experts will make sure that the process of non-resident company registration in Gibraltar will not take much effort from you. Let’s look at the steps to take:
- Reserve a company name: Choose a unique company. We will check whether it complies with Gibraltar’s regulations and whether it is available.
- Submit incorporation documents: We will help you prepare the package of documents, including the Memorandum and Articles of Association. As soon as everything is in order, we submit them to the authorities.
- Appoint a registered agent and office: Every company in Gibraltar is required to have a registered agent and a registered office located within the territory. We will help you find a reliable agent who will handle your company.
- Open a corporate bank account: Although not mandatory at the time of registration, having a corporate bank account is a crucial element of each and every business. We will shortlist the banks that best suit your business operations and discuss the options with you. Then, we will guide you throughout the process without much effort on your part.
Required Documentation
When registering a company in Gibraltar, you will need to provide the following documents:
- Identification of shareholders and directors
- Proof of address
- Memorandum and Articles of Association
Timeline for Registration
A Gibraltar company is typically incorporated within 15 to 20 working days. During this time, we will reserve a company name for you and submit the required documents. In the end, you will receive a Certificate of Incorporation.
Pricing and Packages for Gibraltar Company Registration
The cost of forming a company in Gibraltar can vary depending on the services required. Below is a breakdown of typical expenses:
Service | Included in Cost | Price (EUR) |
---|---|---|
Initial Company Registration | Registration processes, annual mandatory fee, annual report preparation, nominee directors or shareholders for one year, secretary services, legal address | 6,750 |
Annual Renewal (Small Company) | Extension of services for small company category (same as above for subsequent years) | 6,750 |
Post-Incorporation Requirements
As soon as your Gibraltar company has been duly registered, you will need to make sure you comply with ongoing regulatory requirements. These include maintaining the good standing status for your company and fulfilling key responsibilities: keeping records and filing the necessary documents on an annual basis.
Annual Obligations
Gibraltar companies are required to meet certain post-incorporation obligations:
- All companies are required to maintain records of all financial transactions that accurately reflect the state of the business.
- Annual financial statements must be prepared under the IFRS or UK GAAP principles.
- Accounting records must be kept for at least five years.
- An audit is mandatory for public companies and regulated sectors.
- Filing an annual tax return with the tax authority is only required if income is earned within the jurisdiction.
- Financial companies, gambling companies, and trusts are required to provide additional reporting and audit conclusions.
Ongoing Costs
- Registered office fees
- Annual government license fees
- Accounting and reporting costs
Taxation of Gibraltar Non-Resident Companies
Non-resident companies take advantage of an attractive tax environment that Gibraltar offers. At the same time, the country fully complies with international standards in the field of tax compliance. As a result, businesses get their tax perks while remaining transparent globally.
Overview of the Gibraltar Tax System
Gibraltar’s tax system is designed to attract international businesses by offering low taxation:
- No tax on income generated outside Gibraltar.
- Low administrative costs.
International Tax Compliance
Despite its tax benefits, Gibraltar complies with international tax standards:
- FATCA and CRS compliance: Gibraltar complies with FATCA and CRS requirements, so your tax reporting will be globally transparent.
Standard | Compliance Requirement |
---|---|
FATCA | Reporting of US taxpayers |
CRS | Reporting for other countries |
Banking Solutions for Gibraltar Companies
Seamless payments across borders and transparent regulations are not the only advantages of Gibraltar’s banking sector. What is more, opening a corporate bank account is quite a straightforward process that requires no more than a duly prepared package of documents. Let’s take a look at the steps you will need to take to create an account with a Gibraltar bank.
Advantages of Gibraltar Banking
Non-resident companies will benefit a lot from Gibraltar’s convenient and secure banking solutions. The optimal environment for offshore banking is created by the British standards adopted in the jurisdiction. The information on customer’s transactions and details remains strictly confidential.
- Multi-currency accounts: Companies can operate in multiple currencies and thus enjoy seamless international transactions.
- Strong anti-money laundering framework: Gibraltar’s banking sector adheres to strict KYC/AML procedures to adhere to international standards.
- Online banking: Companies can manage their finances remotely with access to secure online banking.
Steps to Open a Corporate Bank Account
If you are going to set up an account in Gibraltar, be prepared to provide the information about the activities your company will engage in, sources of income, and the intended account use. As Gibraltar complies with strict AML regulations, it requires prospective bank customers to provide extensive information.
You will need to provide the following standard documents to create a business bank account:
- Proof of company registration
- Identification of shareholders and directors
For personalized assistance and detailed consultation on opening a business account, please reach out to our experts for more information.
Conclusion
If you want to have a smooth and hassle-free company registration experience, please choose a reliable partner for Gibraltar company formation. Our experts have years of experience in offshore incorporations, and they will easily guide you through the intricacies of the local corporate landscape. We offer customized services at an affordable price. You will get support at each stage – from company registration to post-incorporation compliance. You can delegate accounting services, finding optimal banking solutions, or assistance with legal requirements to us.
Ready to explore all the benefits of non-resident company formation in Gibraltar? Please contact our experts without delay to obtain customized information and take the first steps that will help your business reach the next level. Our dedicated team is within one click, and we are prepared to answer your questions and give you all the support you need to easily set up and run your offshore company in Gibraltar.
What are the benefits of registering a company in Gibraltar?
Gibraltar offers several advantages for company formation, making it an attractive jurisdiction for international businesses. These include:
Tax efficiency: Gibraltar has a favorable tax regime with low corporate tax rates (12.5%) applied only to income generated within the jurisdiction. There is no VAT, capital gains tax, or inheritance tax, and companies conducting business outside of Gibraltar are often exempt from taxes.
Strategic location: Positioned at the entrance to the Mediterranean Sea, Gibraltar provides access to markets in Europe, Africa, and the Middle East. Its land connection with Spain also enhances trade opportunities.
International reputation: Gibraltar is a highly-reputed jurisdiction in the global business landscape as it complies with strict AML and KYC standards.
Access to European markets: Gibraltar is not an EU member; still, it benefits from its close relationship with the UK and is a good base for entering European markets.
Stable economy and financial services hub: The jurisdiction is a well-established financial center that proves to be ideal for businesses engaged in finance, fintech, and asset management.
Ease of business: Company registration can be completed quickly, with minimal administrative burdens and no requirement for local directors or shareholders for non-resident companies.
How much does it cost to register a company in Gibraltar?
The cost of registering a company in Gibraltar is €6,750. This fee includes:
Registration processes
Annual mandatory fees
Preparation of annual financial reports
Nominee directors or shareholders for one year
Secretary services
Legal address provision
The annual renewal fee for small companies is also €6,750, covering the same services for subsequent years.
What documents are required for company registration?
To register a company in Gibraltar, the following documents are typically required:
Memorandum and Articles of Association
Proof of the company’s registered address
Registration application form
List of directors and shareholders, including their names, addresses, and contact details
Copies of passports or identification documents for directors and shareholders
Proof of residential address for directors and shareholders (e.g., utility bill)
Additionally, companies may need to appoint a registered agent who handles the submission of these documents and ensures compliance with local regulations.
Can a foreigner register a company in Gibraltar?
Yes, foreigners can register a company in Gibraltar. There is no requirement for shareholders or directors to be residents of Gibraltar. Foreign nationals can establish both resident and non-resident companies, with non-resident companies often benefiting from exemptions on local taxes if they conduct their business outside the jurisdiction.
Why choose us for your Gibraltar company registration?
We offer comprehensive services to facilitate the smooth registration and management of your Gibraltar-based company. Choose our services to take advantage of the following benefits:
Turnkey solutions: You can delegate the entire company formation process to us, from choosing a name to obtaining the incorporation certificate, and focus on your business instead.
Speed and efficiency: The company registration process takes just a few days, so you will be able to start your operations shortly.
Confidentiality: We fully comply with data protection regulations, which means that your privacy will be maintained throughout the entire process.
International reach: We have a global network to rely on, which is the reason why we can assist with company registration in other jurisdictions and offer multiple solutions for businesses that want to expand internationally.
Ongoing support: We provide continuous assistance with legal, tax, and accounting matters, ensuring your business remains compliant with Gibraltar’s regulations at all times.
By partnering with us, you can be confident that your Gibraltar company will be set up efficiently, with full compliance and long-term support for your business operations.