What is an offshore company?

An offshore company is a limited liability corporate entity used by corporates and individuals alike, to perform a range of business activities to facilitate international operations whilst ensuring tax efficiency.  As such the company has the option to sell shares, the right to sue and be sued, and has perpetual existence.

An IBC (International Business Company) is the most popular type of offshore corporation for asset protection and privacy purposes.  An IBC is usually a tax-exempt corporation that can do business all over the world except in the country where it has been incorporated.  Popular IBC jurisdictions among others include the Jersey, Guernsey, Seychelles, BVI, Cyprus and Mauritius.

Apart from the traditional offshore centres, many 'onshore' jurisdictions have corporate structures that are attractive to international users.  Click here for more information