A company registration

The process of company registration entails the meticulous establishment of a legal entity and the acquisition of the requisite licenses to conduct business in a particular nation. It is of utmost importance that every business strictly adheres to the mandatory legal prerequisites of its chosen jurisdiction. Throughout the registration process, a series of checks are meticulously carried out:

• encompassing the validation of the proposed company name,
• a thorough assessment to confirm the absence of similar or identical names already registered,
• a comprehensive evaluation to determine the permissibility of the intended business activities within the selected country.

The procedure for registering a company abroad requires compliance with the prevailing laws and regulations of the chosen jurisdiction, it becomes imperative to seek the guidance of a legal expert or consultant with specialized knowledge in international business matters. The YB Case team has proficiency in providing all-encompassing legal assistance for company registrations spanning across continents, including Europe, Asia, America, and more. In this material, we elucidate the legal intricacies and unique characteristics associated with registration in specific countries.

In terms of general prerequisites for registering a company overseas, it's worth noting that an international company can serve as a robust tool for legal optimization, business safeguarding, and growth. The establishment of a structure involving a foreign company opens up a plethora of additional opportunities, including:

1. Asset protection.
2. Streamlined legal expenses.
3. Freedom from exchange controls.
4. Access to new markets.
5. Minimization of tax liabilities.

Whether you are contemplating the expansion of your business overseas or aspire to establish a foreign company, the foremost consideration is the legal aspect, namely, registering the company in the Register of Enterprises within the pertinent jurisdiction. While many states have similar requisites for both local and foreign enterprises, it remains imperative to clearly understand and full compliance with the regulations governing business operations in your chosen jurisdiction.

Essential Legal Requirements for Initiating a Business Abroad

These steps encompass the registration of your company with the tax authorities in the relevant country:

Before embarking on the venture of opening a business in another country, a thorough understanding of the pertinent legal aspects is imperative before initiating the registration process. Conducting comprehensive research into your target market and formulating an investment strategy that considers local regulatory considerations are pivotal steps toward achieving long-term success. Seeking legal counsel for company registration is an invaluable resource that can help mitigate financial and time-related expenses.

Selecting a Jurisdiction to Establish a Business Abroad

The selection of the jurisdiction in which to incorporate a company represents a pivotal strategic decision that carries profound implications throughout the company's existence. This choice will dictate the national laws and international standards that the business must adhere to. Before embarking on the path of registering a company abroad, it is essential to weigh various criteria and factors.

The legal prerequisites for company registration can vary significantly based on the chosen jurisdiction, and even within specific territories (such as states, cantons, or provinces). Seeking consultation on the selection of a country for company registration, in alignment with the goals of the future business, is crucial. This decision directly influences future expansion plans and regulatory compliance.

Key criteria for selecting a jurisdiction for foreign company registration

• Ease of Registration: Foreign entrepreneurs typically seek to minimize bureaucratic procedures. Hence, it's crucial to assess the complexity and duration of the registration process, licensing requirements, government fees, and minimum investment capital prerequisites in the chosen jurisdiction.
• Blacklist Status: The inclusion of a jurisdiction on a “blacklist” can have various repercussions, including reputational risks, financial restrictions, heightened requirements for financial disclosures and ownership documentation, and limited access to financial markets.
• Access to Finance: Before registering a company, it's essential to evaluate the local banking system and loan provisions. This includes exploring opportunities for grants, subsidies, or venture capital for new businesses to ensure financial sustainability.
• Competitive Landscape: Analyzing the market's existing competitors, their strengths, market share, and strategies is critical. This assessment helps formulate strategies for your company to compete effectively and achieve success.
• Legal Protection: Selecting a jurisdiction that offers robust legal protection for property rights is essential to safeguard your business interests.
• Scalability: If international business expansion is part of your plans, choosing a jurisdiction that facilitates scaling and maintains friendly relations with other countries is advantageous.
• Taxation: The size and structure of taxes significantly impact business efficiency and profitability. High taxes or complex tax systems can hinder the process of establishing a foreign company.
• Immigration Opportunities: The possibility of obtaining a residence permit or other immigration status is essential for long-term stay and business operations. This includes the ability to move freely for business meetings across different countries.

These criteria are often assessed through resources like the World Bank's Doing Business rankings and business media updates, which provide insights into technological development, political climate, and more.

1. Taxes and Expenses:
   • Tax Implications: Taxation levels have substantial implications for investment and growth. Reasonable tax rates promote private sector development and formal business registration. Effective tax administration encourages compliance with tax laws and enhances economic activity.
   • Registration Costs: The expenses associated with company registration depend on the chosen business structure. As a foreigner, it's essential to account for banking services, outsourcing, notary fees, legal address provision, hiring employees, temporary residence permit fees, and other related costs.
2. Residence Permit Considerations:
   • Residence Permit Requirement: Obtaining a residence permit is typically overlooked but vital for long-term stays in the chosen country. Temporary or permanent residence permits are necessary to legally live and work in the country, allowing for ease of movement for founders and employees.

In summary, the choice of jurisdiction for foreign company registration involves a thorough assessment of multiple factors. Each criterion plays a crucial role in the success and sustainability of your international business venture. It's advisable to seek professional assistance and stay informed about evolving conditions in the selected jurisdiction to make well-informed decisions.

Our company’s specialists provide support in choosing a jurisdiction for opening a company abroad, considering the following aspects:

• The goal you plan to achieve.
• Assessment of the direction of the company’s activities, professional data of the beneficiary (s), with a list of his professional qualities, contractors.
• Analysis of the possibilities of opening a bank account for a non-resident company in a particular country.
• Analysis of the legal system of the state selected for registration, considering the need to select a common law jurisdiction.
• Analysis of the local competitive environment.
• Supply chain assessment and analysis.
• A comparison of federal regulations and tax policies, including an assessment of the tax implications of registering a business abroad for UBO.

Selecting a country for registering a company in Europe

Selecting a European country for registering a company involves navigating through specific procedures and requirements unique to each nation. Nevertheless, the incorporation process in most European countries typically encompasses the following steps:

1. Choosing a Corporate Form
2. Business Name Reservation
3. Preparation of Source of Funds Documentation
4. Submitting Applicant's CV
5. Preparation of Constituent Documents
6. Opening Foreign Bank Account
7. Purchasing Office Space Requirement
8. Obtaining VAT Number and Licensing

Company Registration Options in Europe

1. England :
   • Corporate Forms: LLC, LLP, LP.
   • Attractive for the Financial Sector.
   • Taxation: 25% CIT, 20% VAT.
2. Ireland :
   • Thriving IT Sector (“Silicon Valley of Europe”).
   • Low Income Tax: 12.5% income tax rate.
   • Taxation: VAT – 23%, Income Tax – 12.5%.
3. Malta :
   • Positive Reputation.
   • Low Dividend Tax: 5% for foreign founders.
   • Taxation: VAT – 18%, Income Tax – 35%.
4. Cyprus :
   • Developed Business Environment.
   • EU Membership.
   • Taxation: Income Tax – 12.5%, VAT – 19%.
5. Switzerland :
   • Privacy Options.
   • Competitive Tax Rate: 12-21% of profit.
   • Closed Register for Shareholder Privacy.
   • Developed Banking Sector.

Company Registration Options in Asia

1. Hong Kong :
   • Territorial Tax Regime.
   • No VAT.
   • Low-Cost Business Services.
   • Taxes: VAT – 0%, Income Tax – 8.25% to 16.5%.
2. Singapore :
   • Capital Gains Tax Exemption.
   • Territorial Tax Regime.
   • Online Business Processes.
   • Taxes: Income Tax – 17%, No capital gains tax, GST at 7%.
3. Malaysia :
   • Cost-Friendly Environment.
   • Growing Startup Hub.
   • Visa Opportunities.
   • Investment Support.

Company Registration Options in the USA and South Africa

1. USA :
   • Unlimited Business Opportunities.
   • State-Specific Legislation.
   • Tax Benefits in States like Delaware, Wyoming, and Nevada.
2. South Africa:
   • Growth Opportunities.
   • Developed Legal and Financial Structures.
   • Investor Benefits.

Offshore Company Registration

1. Cayman Islands :
   • Tax Benefits: No direct corporate, income, or capital gains taxes.
   • Economic Substance Requirements.
   • Customer Verification.
2. British Virgin Islands (BVI) :
   • Tax Advantages: No corporate income tax, capital gains tax, or inheritance tax.
   • Economic Substance Requirements.
   • Enhanced Compliance.

Opening a bank account abroad

Opening a bank account abroad is indeed a crucial step when registering a company overseas. It's essential to navigate the complexities of international banking regulations and choose a suitable financial institution. Here are the key factors and required documents for opening a corporate bank account abroad:

1. Main Factors When Choosing a Bank for a Corporate Account:
   • Type of Business Activity and Location
   • Customer Preferences
   • Planned Account Turnover
   • Citizenship and Residence

When opening a corporate bank account abroad, it's essential to be prepared with the following documents:

1. Identity Documents:
   • Copies of passports for all applicants, including private owners, beneficiaries, directors, and shareholders.
   • Proof of addresses for all applicants.
   • Completed application forms as required by the bank.
   • Resumes or professional profiles of private owners, beneficiaries, directors, and shareholders.
2. Constituent Documentation:
   • Originals of charters, registration certificates, and any other relevant legal documents pertaining to your business.
3. Business Information:
   • Detailed information about the nature of your business activities.
   • Clear articulation of the intended purposes of the account.
   • Projections or estimates regarding the expected turnover of funds in the account.
4. Source of Income Verification:
   • Documentation that substantiates the legality of the sources of income that will be deposited into the corporate account.
5. Bank Statements:
   • Statements from other banks where the applicants hold accounts. These statements can serve as references to establish your financial history and credibility.
6. Recommendations:
   • Recommendations from your business partners and any letters of recommendation from other banks where you currently hold accounts. This can be particularly important if your business is considered high-risk.

Our specialized team provides valuable guidance on opening foreign bank accounts, particularly for businesses associated with higher risk profiles. We leverage our expertise to help clients select the most appropriate banking solutions that align with their unique needs and circumstances.

Basics of Economic Substance Requirements (ESR)

ESR is a set of regulations aimed at combating tax avoidance in international business by ensuring that companies have a genuine, physical presence in the country where they are registered.

Meeting these requirements is essential for legal compliance and maintaining a positive reputation while avoiding potential legal and financial consequences.

The process of registering a company abroad and the process of purchasing a ready-made or shelf company can vary depending on numerous factors, including the jurisdiction in which you wish to establish or acquire the company.

Here the typical blueprint presented in a clear table format: