Belize
Incorporation package includes
- Incorporation of a Belize company
- 1 year Registered Office Address
- 1 year Company Secretary Services
- Preparation of necessary resolutions and documentation
- Guidance to ensure your company remains in good standing
- Reminders and support for annual filings, renewals, and business registration renewals
Why form a company in Belize?
Tax Advantages
Belize offers tax-free benefits on foreign-sourced income for International Business Companies (IBCs). There is no corporate income tax, capital gains tax, or withholding tax, making it ideal for international trade and holding companies.
Confidentiality and Privacy
Belize has strong privacy protections, with no public registry of shareholders and directors for IBCs, ensuring confidentiality for company owners.
Stable Legal System
Belize’s legal system is based on English common law, providing a solid foundation for commercial transactions and company operations.
Ease of Incorporation
Belize offers a straightforward incorporation process with minimal requirements. It is possible to establish a company quickly, with minimal documentation.
No Exchange Controls
There are no exchange control restrictions in Belize, allowing free movement of funds in and out of the country, which is beneficial for international businesses.
Asset Protection
Belize IBCs benefit from strong asset protection laws, making it an ideal choice for those looking to protect their assets from litigation or other risks.
Enjoy Belize's tax benefits
No Reporting Requirements
Offshore companies are exempt from local filings.
No Capital Gains Tax
Gains on asset sales are exempt.
No Withholding Tax
Dividends to foreign shareholders aren’t taxed.
No Corporate Tax on Offshore Profits
Profits from offshore operations are tax-free.
Confidentiality
Strong privacy laws for company ownership.
Delivery timeline
Incorporating a company in Belize is a quick and efficient process, typically taking 1-2 business days. Here’s the expected timeline:
Pre-Incorporation
Choose your company name, prepare the necessary documents, and finalize the company structure.
Company Registration
Submit incorporation documents to the Belize Companies Registry for approval.
Issuance of Certificate & Documents
Once approved, you will receive the Certificate of Incorporation, Memorandum & Articles of Association, and other essential documents.
Post-Incorporation
Finalize appointments of directors, open a bank account, and complete any other formalities.
Differences between IBC and LLC
Feature
International Business Company
Limited Liability Company
Structure
An IBC is a flexible business entity ideal for international trade, asset protection, and holding company purposes. It offers limited liability to its shareholders and requires minimal reporting.
An LLC is a versatile business entity that combines features of a corporation and a partnership. It provides limited liability protection and flexibility in terms of profit distribution.
Taxation
IBCs are exempt from local taxes on income generated outside Belize, making them highly tax-efficient.
Belize LLCs also benefit from tax exemption on foreign-sourced income, similar to IBCs.
Management
IBCs require at least one director and one shareholder. Directors do not need to be Belize residents, providing flexibility for international management.
LLCs can be member-managed or manager-managed, allowing for a more flexible internal structure. There are no residency requirements for members or managers.
Suitable for
International businesses, holding companies, and investment entities seeking tax efficiency and privacy.
Smaller businesses, investment holding, real estate ownership, or family-owned businesses seeking a flexible management structure.
Speedy Incorp's
recommendcation
Choose IBC if: You plan to engage in international trade or need a formal entity for asset holding and privacy protection. IBCs are especially beneficial for businesses requiring a structured corporate framework with minimal disclosure requirements.
Choose LLC if: You want a more flexible entity with a partnership-like structure, allowing direct involvement in management and flexible profit distribution. LLCs are ideal for smaller, closely-held businesses.
International Business Company
Structure
An IBC is a flexible business entity ideal for international trade, asset protection, and holding company purposes. It offers limited liability to its shareholders and requires minimal reporting.
Taxation
IBCs are exempt from local taxes on income generated outside Belize, making them highly tax-efficient.
Management
IBCs require at least one director and one shareholder. Directors do not need to be Belize residents, providing flexibility for international management.
Suitable for
International businesses, holding companies, and investment entities seeking tax efficiency and privacy.
Speedy Incorp's recommendcation
Choose IBC if: You plan to engage in international trade or need a formal entity for asset holding and privacy protection. IBCs are especially beneficial for businesses requiring a structured corporate framework with minimal disclosure requirements.
Limited Liability Company
Structure
An LLC is a versatile business entity that combines features of a corporation and a partnership. It provides limited liability protection and flexibility in terms of profit distribution.
Taxation
Belize LLCs also benefit from tax exemption on foreign-sourced income, similar to IBCs.
Management
LLCs can be member-managed or manager-managed, allowing for a more flexible internal structure. There are no residency requirements for members or managers.
Suitable for
Smaller businesses, investment holding, real estate ownership, or family-owned businesses seeking a flexible management structure.
Speedy Incorp's recommendcation
Choose LLC if: You want a more flexible entity with a partnership-like structure, allowing direct involvement in management and flexible profit distribution. LLCs are ideal for smaller, closely-held businesses.
Required documents
Once we receive the required documents, we will handle the entire incorporation process, ensuring full compliance with Belize’s laws and regulations. To incorporate a company in Belize, the following documents are required:
Director and Shareholder Information
- Copies of passports or ID cards for each director and shareholder
- Proof of residential address (e.g., utility bill or bank statement)
Company Name
Proposed company name (subject to availability and approval by the Belize Companies Registry).
Business Activities
A description of the company’s intended business activities.
Registered Office Address
Proof of the company’s registered office address in Belize (can be provided through our service).
Memorandum & Articles of Association
A document outlining the company’s structure, share capital, and shareholder rights.
Frequently answered questions
Find answers to common questions about our services and the company formation process. We’re here to provide clarity and support for your business journey.
What types of companies can be registered in Belize?
Belize offers a range of business structures to suit different needs:
- International Business Company (IBC): The most popular form, ideal for offshore business activities like trading, holding assets, and investments.
- Limited Liability Company (LLC): Suitable for foreign investors looking for liability protection.
- Branch Office: For foreign businesses wishing to operate in Belize without forming a separate entity.
- Partnerships: Both general and limited partnerships are available for joint ventures or professional services.
How quickly can I set up a company in Belize?
The company formation process in Belize is fast and efficient:
- Incorporation can typically be completed within 1-3 business days.
- The process is straightforward, requiring basic documentation and a quick registration with the Belize International Financial Services Commission (IFSC).
- Speedy Incorp LLP can handle the entire process on your behalf, ensuring that your company is incorporated without delays.
What documents are required to incorporate a company in Belize?
To incorporate a company in Belize, you will need the following:
- Company name: A unique name, which can be reserved with the Belize International Financial Services Commission (IFSC).
- Director and Shareholder details: Information about the company’s directors and shareholders.
- Registered office address: A local registered office address in Belize.
- Memorandum and Articles of Association: Defining the structure and purpose of the company.
- Identification documents: For directors and shareholders, typically including a passport and proof of address.
Are there any annual maintenance costs for a Belize company?
Yes, there are minimal ongoing maintenance costs for Belize companies, including:
- Annual License Fee: A small fee is paid to the government for maintaining your company’s legal status.
- Registered Agent Fee: A registered agent must be maintained in Belize to handle legal and regulatory requirements.
- Annual Return: You will need to file an annual return with the Belize International Financial Services Commission (IFSC).
- No audit requirements: Belize does not require audited financial statements for IBCs, making it more cost-effective for businesses.
Can I manage my Belize company from abroad?
Yes, Belize allows for remote management of companies:
- No requirement for local presence: Directors and shareholders can be based anywhere in the world.
- Virtual meetings and electronic communications are sufficient for management activities.
- Banking: Many Belizean banks allow for remote account management, making it easy to oversee financial operations from abroad.
Speedy Incorp LLP can assist in setting up your business structure and provide support for managing your company remotely.
