The Vanuatu International Company (IC) provides a zero-tax, private offshore corporate vehicle for holding structures, asset protection, and special purpose entities — with simple formation and low annual maintenance costs.
The Vanuatu International Company is incorporated under the International Companies Act 1992 — one of the Pacific's simplest and most cost-efficient offshore corporate vehicles. Vanuatu ICs pay no income tax, capital gains tax, or withholding tax on offshore income and are widely used as forex broker vehicles, holding companies, and special purpose entities.
Marensa Advisory advises on Vanuatu IC formation as part of broader offshore structuring — combining Vanuatu ICs with UAE free zone entities, BVI holding companies, or Cayman fund structures.
Form a Vanuatu International CompanyThe Vanuatu IC's primary advantages are its simplicity, zero-tax profile, and low cost — making it suitable for straightforward offshore holding and SPV applications.
The Vanuatu IC provides one of the world's simplest and lowest-cost offshore corporate vehicles — ideal for straightforward holding structures, SPVs, and broker vehicles where simplicity and cost efficiency are priorities.
Marensa Advisory advises on Vanuatu IC formation as part of a broader offshore structuring strategy — ensuring the vehicle choice matches the commercial objective and long-term maintenance burden.
Start the ConversationVanuatu was removed from the FATF grey list (enhanced monitoring) in 2022 following improvements to its AML/CFT framework. Counterparties should verify Vanuatu's current FATF status as part of ongoing due diligence, as FATF classifications can change.
No — Vanuatu ICs are not required to file annual accounts with any public registry. Financial statements are maintained privately by the company.
Both are zero-tax offshore vehicles with privacy advantages. BVI Business Companies have greater global recognition and are more widely accepted by institutional banks and partners. Vanuatu ICs are lower cost and have faster formation — appropriate for straightforward structures where BVI's premium recognition is not required.
UAE banks apply enhanced due diligence to Vanuatu-incorporated entities — given Vanuatu's offshore status and previous FATF greylisting history. Some UAE banks will bank Vanuatu ICs with complete beneficial owner documentation; others decline. Professional banking advisory is recommended before selecting Vanuatu as the vehicle jurisdiction if UAE banking is required.