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The BVI has a territorial taxation system, which means that only income generated within the territory is subject to taxation. Foreign-sourced income (income outside of BVI) is taxed at 0%. 

This rate applies to all companies, regardless of whether they are incorporated in the BVI or are foreign-owned. Additionally, the BVI does not have any taxes on capital gains, dividends, or interest income. The territory also does not impose any withholding taxes on the payment of dividends, interest, or royalties.

Due to this low-tax environment, the BVI is a popular jurisdiction for the formation of international business companies (IBCs) and other forms of offshore entities.

If you want to incorporate a company in BVI, contact us now!

OVERVIEW OF BVI TAX

As a tax-neutral jurisdiction, the British Virgin Islands (BVI) does not impose taxes on income, capital gains, or withholding taxes for companies and individuals. BVI companies are not required to file income tax returns or pay taxes on their income. 

However, BVI companies must maintain financial records and underlying documentation that show (and explain) their transactions and pay an annual fee to the government based on the company’s authorized share capital. 

There is also a stamp duty of 0.15% on all mortgages, charges, and debentures over BVI land and property.

It’s important to note that BVI has implemented economic substance requirements for certain types of business entities, including companies and limited partnerships, in order to meet international standards for tax transparency and combat tax evasion.

These requirements state that companies conducting certain relevant activities, such as banking, insurance, shipping, intellectual property, and holding company activities, must demonstrate adequate economic substance in the BVI. Failure to meet these requirements can result in penalties and fines.

It’s also worth noting that even though a BVI company is not subject to income tax, any income generated by the company may be subject to taxes in the jurisdiction where the income is generated, and the beneficial owner of the company may be subject to taxes in their own country of residence. It is advisable to consult with a tax professional to understand the specific tax implications of owning or operating a BVI company.

BVI COMPANY REGULATORY AND REPORTING REQUIREMENTS

As of January 1st, 2023, the BVI Business Companies Act has been amended to require all BVI companies (with limited exceptions) to submit an Annual Financial Return to their Registered Agent. 

This return will consist of a one-page Income Statement and Balance Sheet, which must be completed based on the company’s financial records. Prior to these amendments, BVI Business Companies were not required to submit Financial Statements or Annual Returns unless the entity was regulated and subject to specific rules.

The company must also retain its accounting records. 

The register of directors and the register of shareholders must be updated frequently. 

A BVI company must have a registered agent and registered office at all times post incorporation. 

Meetings Of Directors And Shareholders

Annual general meetings are not mandated by law in the BVI. Company board meetings can be done electronically and anywhere in the world.

Annual Government Fee

Depending on the maximum number of shares that can be issued at one time and the date the company was incorporated, the BVI firm is required to pay a fee to the government each year. 

Companies with up to USD 50,000 in equity pay USD 350 annually. Companies with a share capital greater than $50,0001 pay $1,100 annually. For non-BVI citizens buying or selling real estate, a 12% stamp duty is applied. For BVI residents, the rates are reduced to 4%.

Payroll Taxes And Social Security

The self-employed and employers conducting business in the BVI are responsible for paying payroll tax and social contributions. 10% for small businesses and up to 14% for large enterprises is the payroll tax rate. At the expense of the employees, 8% of the compensation may be refunded. Payroll tax is not applied to the first USD 10,000. Employers and employees both contribute to social security at a rate of 4.5%.

Accounting Standards In BVI

The British Virgin Islands (BVI) follows International Financial Reporting Standards (IFRS) as issued by the International Accounting Standards Board (IASB) for the preparation of financial statements.