Vanuatu Company Formation FAQ

Yes. Vanuatu International Companies are generally owned by non-residents, subject to the registered agent's KYC and due-diligence checks.

Vanuatu levies no general corporate or personal income tax, and an International Company is not subject to Vanuatu income tax on its foreign business. This does not make the owner internationally tax-free: tax may arise in the owner's country of residence, or where management and activities take place. This should be reviewed with an adviser.

There is generally no residency requirement for directors, though proper records must be maintained and a licensed registered agent and registered office are required.

Often, yes. Much of the process can be completed remotely through the registered agent once identity checks and documents are in order.

A Vanuatu International Company does not file the ordinary annual return or audited financial statements that apply to Companies Act companies; it pays an annual registration fee to the VFSC to stay registered. There is no separate enacted economic-substance filing being marketed here. The company must keep a registered agent and office, beneficial-ownership and accounting records, and file required updates.

A corporate account is common in practice but not a strict incorporation requirement. Account opening is a separate process with its own checks and provider acceptance.

Yes. A corporate participant, including a foreign company, can own a Vanuatu International Company. Its constitutional documents and beneficial owners will be needed for KYC.

No. Banking, insurance, fund and similar activities require separate licensing or registration. Incorporation alone does not authorise regulated business.

Yes. Vanuatu International Companies are commonly used for holding and structuring. The overall tax result depends on activities and where owners are located, and should be reviewed.

For individuals, generally a passport, proof of address, business-activity and source-of-funds information and tax-residency details. For corporate participants, incorporation and constitutional documents, registers, an ownership chart and beneficial-ownership information.