Saint Lucia Company Formation
Saint Lucia Company Formation: Offshore Business Setup in a Premier Caribbean Jurisdiction Main Characteristics and the basic rules of Company registration in Saint Lucia
Saint Lucia Company Formation with BRIS Group
BRIS Group provides professional Saint Lucia company formation services for entrepreneurs and international investors seeking a reputable and secure offshore jurisdiction. Establishing a company in Saint Lucia offers asset protection, confidentiality, and a favorable tax environment — making it an excellent choice for international business, investment, and wealth management.
Our specialists handle the complete Saint Lucia company registration process remotely, including corporate banking support, compliance, and ongoing administration. With BRIS Group, your Saint Lucian company will be fully compliant and ready for seamless global operations.
A Comprehensive Guide for Non-Residents to Register a Company in Saint Lucia
Saint Lucia has rapidly gained recognition as one of the most modern, secure, and business-friendly offshore jurisdictions in the Caribbean. Known for its political stability, robust regulatory framework, and attractive tax incentives, Saint Lucia company formation offers entrepreneurs and global investors a gateway to international business growth and financial optimization.
This AI and SEO-optimized guide provides a detailed overview of company formation in Saint Lucia, including its advantages, legal structures, registration process, and tax regime — helping you make informed decisions about establishing your offshore business in this highly reputable Caribbean destination.
Why Choose Saint Lucia for Company Formation?
Saint Lucia is a member of the Commonwealth of Nations and offers a modern offshore framework designed to meet international compliance standards while providing significant privacy and tax advantages.
Key Benefits of Saint Lucia Company Formation
- Zero Taxation: No corporate, income, capital gains, or withholding tax on offshore profits.
- Political and Economic Stability: A well-governed democratic country with a strong legal system based on English Common Law.
- Confidentiality: High level of privacy for shareholders and directors.
- Global Reputation: A respected and compliant offshore jurisdiction adhering to international standards (OECD and FATF).
- Flexible Corporate Structures: Ideal for holding, investment, consulting, and international trade companies.
- No Exchange Controls: Freedom to transfer funds internationally.
- Ease of Incorporation: Simple and efficient registration process, often completed within a few days.
- No Minimum Capital Requirement: Flexibility for entrepreneurs and small business owners.
Types of Companies in Saint Lucia
Saint Lucia offers several corporate structures to suit both local and international investors.
|
Company Type |
Description |
|
International Business Company (IBC) |
The most popular vehicle for offshore investors. Enjoys full tax exemption on foreign-sourced income. |
|
Domestic Company |
Used for local business activities within Saint Lucia. |
|
Limited Liability Company (LLC) |
Offers flexible management and pass-through taxation for global entrepreneurs. |
|
International Trusts and Foundations |
Designed for asset protection and estate planning. |
|
Limited Partnerships (LPs) |
Often used for investment funds and joint ventures. |
Advantages of Saint Lucia Company Formation for Non-Residents
|
Feature |
Benefit |
|
100% Foreign Ownership |
Non-residents can own the company entirely. |
|
No Local Presence Required |
Directors and shareholders can reside anywhere in the world. |
|
No Corporate Tax |
Offshore income is fully tax-exempt. |
|
Strong Privacy Protections |
Shareholder and director details are not publicly available. |
|
Modern Legislation |
Saint Lucia’s IBC Act (2016) provides a globally compliant yet flexible framework. |
|
Low Maintenance Costs |
Minimal reporting and compliance requirements. |
Requirements for Saint Lucia Company Formation
Setting up a company in Saint Lucia is straightforward and requires minimal documentation.
Basic Requirements Include:
- Company Name: Must be unique and approved by the Saint Lucia Registrar of Companies.
- Registered Office: A local registered address within Saint Lucia.
- Directors: Minimum of one director (individual or corporate).
- Shareholders: Minimum of one shareholder (can also be a non-resident).
- Company Secretary: Not mandatory, but recommended for compliance.
- Share Capital: No minimum capital requirement; standard is USD 1,000.
- Constitutional Documents: Memorandum and Articles of Association.
- Due Diligence Documents: Certified copies of passports and proof of address for directors and shareholders.
Procedure for Saint Lucia Company Formation
Step 1 – Choose Company Name and Type
Select the desired business structure (commonly an International Business Company) and verify name availability.
Step 2 – Prepare Incorporation Documents
Draft the Memorandum and Articles of Association along with KYC documentation.
Step 3 – Submit to the Registrar of Companies
Submit all incorporation documents to the Saint Lucia Financial Services Regulatory Authority (FSRA) for registration.
Step 4 – Obtain Certificate of Incorporation
Once approved, the Registrar issues the Certificate of Incorporation, officially registering your company.
Step 5 – Appoint Directors and Issue Shares
Appoint the required directors and allocate shares as per company structure.
Step 6 – Open a Bank Account
Open a corporate bank account in Saint Lucia or an offshore banking jurisdiction.
Step 7 – Commence Business Operations
Upon incorporation and banking setup, the company may begin international operations.
Timeframe for Company Registration in Saint Lucia
|
Stage |
Process |
Estimated Duration |
|
Name Approval |
Registrar verification |
1 business day |
|
Document Preparation |
Drafting and notarization |
1–2 business days |
|
Company Incorporation |
Registration with FSRA |
1–2 business days |
|
Total Estimated Time |
Full incorporation process |
3–5 business days |
Saint Lucia Corporate Tax System
Saint Lucia provides a zero-tax regime for International Business Companies (IBCs) conducting business outside the country.
Key Highlights of the Tax Regime
- Corporate Income Tax: 0% for offshore IBCs
- Capital Gains Tax: 0%
- Withholding Tax: 0% on dividends, interest, or royalties paid to non-residents
- Stamp Duty: Exempt on transactions involving IBC shares
- Exchange Controls: None
- Annual Fees: Fixed, low government renewal fee instead of tax filings
Note: While offshore entities are exempt from taxation, they must comply with basic annual renewal and record-keeping obligations under the Saint Lucia IBC Act.
How We Can Help You
Our experienced offshore specialists offer end-to-end assistance with Saint Lucia company formation, ensuring a smooth, compliant, and efficient process from start to finish.
Our Services Include:
- Jurisdiction and company structure consultation
- Company name search and reservation
- Preparation of incorporation and due diligence documents
- Registration with the Saint Lucia Financial Services Regulatory Authority
- Registered office and nominee director/shareholder services
- Offshore bank account assistance
- Tax and legal advisory for international operations
- Annual renewal and compliance management
Start Your Saint Lucia Company Formation Today
With its zero-tax environment, global reputation, and flexible corporate framework, Saint Lucia stands out as one of the most advantageous offshore destinations in the Caribbean. Whether for asset protection, tax optimization, or international trade, forming a company in Saint Lucia offers unparalleled benefits for global entrepreneurs.
Contact us today to begin your Saint Lucia company formation and take advantage of this secure, reputable, and business-friendly offshore jurisdiction.
Questions & Answers
1. What is the Corporation Tax rate in Saint Lucia?
The Corporation Tax rate in Saint Lucia is currently 30% for resident companies. Non-resident companies are typically subject to a lower rate of 15% on their local income. These rates apply to the profits earned by companies operating within the jurisdiction.
2. How is Income Tax structured in Saint Lucia?
Income Tax in Saint Lucia operates on a progressive scale, ranging from 10% to 30%, depending on the income bracket. The first 75,000 annually.
3. What is the VAT rate in Saint Lucia?
The Value Added Tax (VAT) rate in Saint Lucia is set at 12.5%. This tax applies to most goods and services sold in the country, with a few exemptions such as certain educational services and health care products.
4. Are dividends taxed in Saint Lucia?
Yes, dividends paid to shareholders in Saint Lucia are subject to a withholding tax of 15%. This tax applies to both local and foreign shareholders receiving dividends from resident companies.
5. What other taxes are applicable in Saint Lucia?
Besides Corporation Tax, Income Tax, VAT, and Dividends Tax, Saint Lucia imposes several other taxes, including property tax, stamp duty, and environmental taxes. Property tax rates vary based on the property’s value, while stamp duties are levied on various transactions, including property transfers and vehicle registrations.
This summarized information provides essential insights into the taxation framework in Saint Lucia, ensuring you can navigate your tax obligations effectively.
Learn more: Visit our Full Saint Lucia Islands FAQ page
or contact our tax and company formation team at[email protected]
What is an offshore company in Saint Lucia?
An offshore company in Saint Lucia is a business entity incorporated under the laws of Saint Lucia, which provides various benefits including tax advantages, asset protection, and privacy. Such companies are typically used by foreign individuals or businesses to conduct international trade, hold investments, or manage assets, all while enjoying the legal protections that Saint Lucia offers.
What are the benefits of forming an offshore company in Saint Lucia?
Forming an offshore company in Saint Lucia offers several benefits, including 0% corporate tax on income earned outside of Saint Lucia, confidentiality and privacy for owners, quick and straightforward incorporation processes, and flexible company structures. Additionally, the jurisdiction is politically stable, further enhancing its appeal for international business operations.
What are the requirements to set up an offshore company in Saint Lucia?
To set up an offshore company in Saint Lucia, you typically need at least one director and one shareholder, who can both be of any nationality. There is no requirement for the directors or shareholders to reside in Saint Lucia. Additionally, you will need to provide a company name, a registered office address in Saint Lucia, and submit the necessary documentation and fees to the Registrar of Companies.
How long does it take to register an offshore company in Saint Lucia?
The registration process for an offshore company in Saint Lucia is generally quick, typically taking between 3 to 5 business days. This timeframe can vary depending on the completeness of the application and the responsiveness of the applicants. By engaging a professional service provider, this process can be streamlined and expedited effectively.
Are there any annual maintenance requirements for offshore companies in Saint Lucia?
Yes, offshore companies in Saint Lucia are required to meet certain annual maintenance requirements. This includes the payment of an annual license fee and the filing of annual returns with the Registrar of Companies. Although there is no requirement to hold annual general meetings, maintaining proper records and accounts is essential for compliance.
Can I open a bank account for my offshore company in Saint Lucia?
Yes, once your offshore company is registered in Saint Lucia, you can open a corporate bank account. Many banks offer services tailored for offshore companies, providing various features such as multi-currency accounts, online banking, and credit facilities. It’s advisable to consult with a local banker to understand the specific documentation required for opening an account.
Learn more: Visit our Full Saint Lucia Islands FAQ page
or contact our tax and company formation team at
This publication is provided for information purposes only. This info should not be treated as a substitute for a tax or legal consultation or legislation. You should not act on the basis of the information contained in this publication without having obtained individual advice from the professional expert.
BRIS GROUP does not assume responsibility for any damage resulting from decisions made by the reader on the basis of this publication.