Bahamas Company Incorporation — Fast, Reliable & Fully Compliant

Why Choose the Bahamas for Your Company Formation

The Bahamas is a premier destination for international company formation, combining political stability, modern legislation, and a tax-efficient environment. Its strategic location in the Caribbean, robust legal system, and globally recognised corporate framework make it an attractive choice for entrepreneurs, investors, and businesses seeking international expansion. Whether you are trading globally, holding assets, or managing investments, the Bahamas offers a secure and flexible foundation for your operations.

Key Benefits:

• Tax Efficiency: No corporate, capital gains, or income tax for offshore companies operating internationally.
• Confidentiality: Beneficial ownership and corporate details are recorded privately with the registered agent.
• Flexible Corporate Structures: Entities like IBCs, LLCs, SACs, ELPs, Non-Profits, and Foundations cater to diverse business objectives.
• Ease of Incorporation: Quick and straightforward registration process with minimal bureaucracy.
• Global Recognition: Internationally recognised for trading, holding assets, IP management, and investment operations.
• Legal & Regulatory Stability: Strong adherence to international standards, AML/KYC compliance, and a secure business environment.
• Investor-Friendly Environment: No residency requirement for directors or shareholders, and 100% foreign ownership is permitted.

Popular Types of Companies in the Bahamas

How to Set Up a Company in the Bahamas

1. 1
   Choose the Company Type: Decide whether to register an IBC, LLC, SAC, ELP, Non-Profit, or Foundation based on business objectives.
2. 2
   Prepare Required Documents: Certified passport copies, proof of address, business description, KYC forms, and corporate structure chart if applicable.
3. 3
   File Incorporation Documents: Submit Memorandum & Articles of Association and statutory forms to the Registrar General's Department.
4. 4
   Obtain Certificate of Incorporation: Upon approval, the company receives the certificate and can commence operations.
5. 5
   Compliance and Governance: Maintain statutory registers, file annual returns if required, and ensure directors, shareholders, and beneficial ownership records are up to date.

What You Need to Provide

To comply with Bahamian regulations, you will need to provide:

• Certified passport copies for all shareholders and directors
• Proof of address (recent utility bill, less than 3 months old)
• Professional reference letter (from a bank or professional, if applicable)
• Brief business description outlining intended activities
• Completed KYC form for all beneficial owners
• Source of funds and wealth declaration
• Corporate structure chart (if using corporate shareholders)

Note: All documents must be certified, in English, and verified by Leadforce to ensure a smooth and compliant incorporation process.

YEARLY RENEWAL

All Bahamian companies must renew annually to remain in good standing. Leadforce handles:

• Government renewal fees
• Registered agent service
• Registered office
• Beneficial owner maintenance
• Compliance updates

You remain fully compliant without administrative burden.

Taxes in the Bahamas

The Bahamas is a zero-tax jurisdiction for international companies. There is no:

Companies must still comply with:

• Economic Substance Regulations (depending on activity)
• Annual government fees
• AML/KYC requirements

VAT in the Bahamas

Value Added Tax (VAT) in the Bahamas is primarily applicable to businesses operating locally. The standard VAT rate is 10%, which applies to goods and services supplied within the jurisdiction.

For offshore International Business Companies (IBCs) engaged in purely international operations, VAT does not apply, making the Bahamas an attractive location for global trading, investment holding, and service-based businesses.

This exemption allows offshore companies to operate efficiently, maintain cost-effectiveness, and benefit from a tax-neutral environment, while fully complying with Bahamian tax regulations.

Understand How Ownership, Shareholding, and Governance Work in the Bahamas

When forming a company in the Bahamas, it's crucial to understand how ownership, shareholding, and governance are structured. The Bahamian framework offers flexibility, privacy, and compliance, making it ideal for international investors and entrepreneurs.

Corporate Legislation in the Bahamas

Key laws governing companies include:

• International Business Companies Act (2000, amended 2010 & 2017)
• Commercial Entities (Substance Requirements) Act
• Companies Act
• Foundation Act
• Partnership Limited Liability Act

The regulatory body is the Registrar General's Department.

Why Leadforce is Your Trusted Partner for Bahamas Company Formation

How Our Bahamas Company Formation Service Works — Four Simple Steps

Leadforce makes forming your Bahamas company fast, simple, and fully compliant. Our four-step process ensures your entity is legally protected, operationally ready, and structured for success.

Government Stamp Duty & Basic Fees

Typical government fees include:

• IBC incorporation fee
• Annual government renewal fee
• Registered office fee
• Registered agent fee

The Bahamas does not charge stamp duty on share transfers for non-resident companies.

Crypto-Friendly Companies & Banking Solutions in the Bahamas

The Bahamas is at the forefront of digital asset regulation with its Digital Asset and Registered Exchange (DARE) Act, creating a secure and transparent environment for crypto and blockchain businesses.

While traditional banking in the region can be conservative, the jurisdiction supports specialised financial institutions and fintechs that cater to:

Leadforce provides tailored banking introductions based on your company type and risk profile. Our experts guide you to suitable institutions, ensuring smooth account opening and operational support. This allows your crypto or blockchain business to operate globally with compliance, security, and banking accessibility in place.

Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)

HELPFUL GUIDES & INSIGHTS

Your expert resource for everything related to Bahamas Company Formation. Explore our guides and articles to make informed decisions for your business.