Company Registration in Barbados- An Overview

Aspect Details
Timeline for Company Registration in Barbados The timeline for company registration in Barbados is 2 to 4 weeks.
Benefits of Business Setup in Barbados

The list of benefits of business setup in Barbados is as follows:

  • Favourable Tax Regime
  • 10-Year Income Tax Holiday
  • Stable Political and Economic Environment
  • Strategic Location
  • Exemption on Import Duty
  • Simplified Company Registration in Barbados
  • Comprehensive Legal and Regulatory Framework
  • Government Assistance
  • Highly Skilled Workforce
Types of Business Structures for Company Registration in Barbados

The list of different types of structures for company registration in Barbados is as follows:

  • Societies with Restricted Liability (SRLs)
  • International Business Companies (IBCs)
  • Regular Barbados Companies (RBCs)
  • International Societies with Restricted Liability (ISRLs)
Requirements for Offshore Business Registration in Barbados

The list of requirements for offshore business registration in Barbados is as follows:

  • One Director & One Shareholder (any residency, address required)
  • No Meeting Requirements for directors or owners
  • No Minimum Capital (banks require $1,000; avg. $50K)
  • Bank Account (can be in USD)
  • Local Registered Office Required
Documents Required for Business Setup in Barbados

The list of documents required for business setup in Barbados is as follows:

  1. Certified copy of passport
  2. Certified copy of proof of address (Eg. electricity bill, an ID card with your home address, bank statements, etc)
  3. Memorandum of Association (MoA)
  4. Articles of Association (AoA)
  5. Details of local registered address.
  6. Detailed Business Plan
Procedure for Company Registration in Barbados

The procedure for company registration in Barbados is as follows:

  • Choose the Right Type of Company
  • Reserve a Company Name
  • Prepare Necessary Documents
  • Submit the Application
  • Obtain Tax Registration & Licenses
  • Open a Corporate Bank Account
How can we help you with Offshore Business Registration in Barbados?

At Enterslice, we ensure a smooth and efficient Company Formation in Barbados, offering:

  • Structuring for optimized offshore business registration in Barbados
  • Fast Registration to launch without delays
  • Compliance Assistance for tax and legal needs
  • Dedicated Support for seamless operations for Company Registration in Barbados
  • 40% Faster Processing with minimal paperwork

Start a Business in Barbados with Enterslice

Let our experts help you start a business in Barbados and benefit from its low corporate tax rate, business-friendly climate, etc.

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Understanding Company Registration in Barbados

Barbados provides a supportive environment for foreign investors, with no restrictions on foreign ownership of businesses. The government has streamlined the registration process, making it easier for entrepreneurs to establish their companies. Additionally, the island's modern infrastructure—spanning road, rail, and air—further enhances its appeal. Thus, company registration in Barbados can be a great choice.

If you are looking to start a business in the North American Caribbean islands, company registration in Barbados is a strategic choice due to its stability and business-friendly environment. Choosing the right company structure can significantly impact your business growth. The country offers a skilled yet cost-effective workforce, along with strong political and social stability.

At Enterslice, we simplify the process of company formation in Barbados, offering end-to-end support. With our hassle-free registration services, you can focus on growing your business while we handle the legal and administrative procedures efficiently.

0% Withholding Tax Rate

9% Corporate Tax Rate

No Local Director Required

20 + Double Taxation Treaty

At least One Shareholder

Strategic Location

Minimum Authorised Capital is BBD 0

VAT Rate 17.5%

Pleasing Island with a Boom-town Vibe

Types of Company Registration in Barbados

The different types of company registration in Barbados are as follows:

sarl

Societies with Restricted Liability (SRLs)

Societies with Restricted Liability (SRL) are established under the Societies with Restricted Liability Act and require Central Bank approval for international business activities. They must have one shareholder, one local resident director, no minimum capital, a registered office, and a registered agent. SRLs are exempt from exchange controls and withholding taxes on distributions to non-residents but must undergo an annual audit and file returns if assets or revenue exceed BDS$500,000.

ibc

International Business Companies (IBCs)

To register an International Business Company in Barbados, a company must obtain approval from the Minister of Industry and International Business. It requires one shareholder, one director (not necessarily local), a registered office, and an agent. No minimum capital is needed, but compliance includes audits for assets/revenue over BDS$500,000, annual returns, and a license fee.

rbc

Regular Barbados companies (RBCs)

A Regular Barbados Company is incorporated under the Companies Act with Central Bank approval and taxed at 25%. It requires one shareholder, one local resident director, no minimum stated capital, a registered office in Barbados, and may have a registered agent.

isrl

International Societies with Restricted Liability (ISRLs)

International Societies with Restricted Liability (ISRLs) in Barbados operate under the SRL Act and require approval for an International Business Licence. Designed for global transactions, ISRLs cannot do business with Barbados residents or own land, except through a lease for business purposes.

Checklist for Offshore Business Registration in Barbados

The checklist for offshore business registration in Barbados is as follows:

 
  • Must have a unique Barbados corporate name
  • Must have a local registered agent and local office address
  • Must have a minimum of one shareholder (any nationality)
  • Minimum one director (any nationality)
  • No requirement resident director
  • Minimum authorised capital is BBD 0
  • Corporate tax rate 9 %
  • No capital gain tax & withholding tax exemptions
  • Must keep a record of meeting minutes and meetings at the registered office.
  • Barbados companies are exempted from audit, unless yearly revenues are above $500,000.

Benefits of Business Setup in Barbados

The list of benefits of business setup in Barbados is as follows:

Favourable Tax Regime

Barbados offers a favourable tax regime with corporate tax rates as low as 1% to 9% for qualifying businesses. The country has over 40 double taxation treaties, reducing tax burdens on international transactions. Companies operating in special economic zones benefit from exemptions, tax holidays, and other fiscal incentives. Additionally, there is no capital gains tax, making it attractive for businesses engaged in acquisitions.

10-Year Tax Holiday

A concept called a 10-year tax holiday exists in Barbados, it exempts corporations registered in Barbados taxes for ten years. Only after the passing of 10 years, corporations are expected to pay the 2.5% rate.

Stable Political and Economic Environment

It provides a stable political and economic environment with a well-developed legal system based on English common law, ensuring a reliable framework for business operations and dispute resolution. Over time, it has demonstrated economic resilience, supported by diverse sectors such as tourism, financial services, and agriculture.

Strategic Location

It also offers a strategic location with access to markets in North America, South America, and Europe. The country is well-connected to major cities like New York, London, Toronto, and Miami, ensuring easy access to global clients and suppliers.

Exemption on Import Duty

Companies incorporated in Barbados and business manufacturing and processing goods and products are eligible for import duty exemption.

Simplified Company Registration in Barbados

Barbados offers a straightforward company registration process, requiring only one minimum shareholder and no minimum authorized share capital (BBD 0). This makes it an attractive destination for entrepreneurs looking for a cost-effective and business-friendly environment.

Comprehensive Legal and Regulatory Framework

Barbados offers a business-friendly legislation, that facilitates corporation ease of doing business, such as the Firms Act, the Worldwide Business-Companies Act, and the Societies and Restricted Liability Act.

Government Assistance

The Invest Barbados (IB) is a government agency in Barbados who assists Offshore Incorporation in Barbados with financial assistance and a speedy and efficient process of company incorporation. Additionally, full assistance to corporations at no cost is provided by the Barbados Investment and Development Corporation (BIDC).

Highly Skilled Workforce

Barbados has a highly skilled and educated workforce, supported by a strong education system and a high literacy rate. The country also boasts a multilingual workforce with proficiency in English, Spanish, French, and other languages.

Procedure for Company Registration in Barbados

The step-by step procedure for company registration in Barbados is as follows:

Choose the Right Type of Company

Select a company structure based on your business operations.

Reserve a Company Name

Pick a unique name that follows the naming guidelines set by the Barbados Corporate Affairs and Intellectual Property Office (CAIPO).

Prepare Necessary Documents

Gather required documents, including the Memorandum and Articles of Association, director and shareholder details, proof of identity and address, and the registered office address.

Application Submission and Company Registration with CAIPO

File the incorporation documents with CAIPO. Once approved, you will receive a Certificate of Registration from CAIPO.

Obtain Tax Registration & Licenses

Register with the Barbados Revenue Authority to obtain an Income Tax Number, VAT registration, GST, and a Tax Identification Number (TIN).

Open a Corporate Bank Account

Set up a business account with banks like RBC Royal Bank, First Citizens Bank, or Republic Bank. No travel is required for directors or shareholders.

Businesses for Offshore Business Registration in Barbados

Some of the important lists of profitable businesses for offshore business registration in Barbados are as follows:

Sugar Cultivation

Sugar cultivation is an excellent option in Barbados due to its favourable climate. The country has a strong reputation in the international market, as the sugarcane variety grown here is highly sought after.

Tourism Agency

Barbados falls under the Caribbean belt of countries and has a huge number of tourist attractions places contributing significantly to the local economy. One can take advantage of this opportunity to start a business in Barbados .

Senior Citizen Care Agency

With a growing economy and a strong culture of healthy living, Barbados has an average life expectancy of 74 years. This creates opportunities to start a care agency to support the elderly.

Financial Services Consulting

Barbados is home to several global financial institutions, including J&T Bank and Trust. Entrepreneurs can take advantage of these financial services by starting a financial advisory firm.

Real Estate

The country is actively working to provide adequate housing for its citizens and foreign nationals. This creates an opportunity to establish a real estate consultancy firm to meet the growing demand.

Documents Required for Business Setup in Barbados

The list of documents required for business setup in Barbados are as follows:

Certified copy of passport

Certified copy of proof of address (electricity bill, bank statements, etc)

Detailed Business Plan

Memorandum of Association (MoA)

Articles of Association (AoA)

Details of local registered address

Compliances Post Business Setup in Barbados

The list of compliances post-business setup in Barbados is as follows:

  • Accounting records must be kept by the Barbados companies, which may be kept in or outside Barbados.
  • Both financial statements and tax returns must be filed annually by the Barbados companies.
  • File a tax return on 15th March, if the company’s year-end is between 1st January and 20th
  • File a tax return on 15th June if the company’s year-end is between 1st October and 31st
  • File an annual return together with their financial statements by 31st January each year.
  • An audit may be required if gross revenue or company assets cross approximately BDS$2,000,000.

Talk to Enterslice consultants, and let us help you overcome the challenges with minimum effort.

Requirements for Offshore Business Registration in Barbados

The list of requirements for offshore business registration in Barbados is as follows:

  • At least one managing director (no residency requirements) but also provide residential address data.
  • At least one shareholder or owner (residency of any country), must notify the address of registration.
  • No requirements for the number of directors meetings and owners.
  • No requirement for an authorized capital amount, but banks require $1000, average capital size is about $50k.
  • Open a bank account (can be in US dollars)
  • Should have a local registered office

Legal Framework to Start a Business in Barbados

The legal framework to start a business in Barbados is as follows:

  • All businesses must be registered with the Corporate Affairs and Intellectual Property Office (CAIPO).
  • Register the business brand name with CAIPO.
  • All businesses must register with the Barbados Revenue Authority to obtain the employer’s national insurance number.
  • Register with the Barbados Revenue Authority to obtain Employer’s Income tax number and Value Added Tax number.
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Why Trust Enterslice for Company Registration in Barbados?

You may choose Enterslice for company registration in Barbados for the following reasons:

  • Foreign Business Setup Assistance in Barbados
  • Supported the Dreams of 500+ Entrepreneurs with Offshore Business Registration in Barbados
  • 99% Success Rate in Company Registration in Barbados
  • 99 out of 100 Companies Have Become our Regular Clients
  • No Hidden Charges, Complete Transparency
  • Ensures Reduction in Compliance Burden up to 30%
  • Documentation Support for Offshore Business Registration in Barbados
  • End-to-end Assistance in Company Registration in Barbados

Frequently Asked Questions for Company Formation in Barbados

The list of Barbados tax rate is as follows:

  • The general corporate tax rate is 9%
  • The CIT for small businesses is 5.5%
  • The CIT for companies engaged in international shipping business is 5.5% to 1%
  • The CIT for class 1, class 2, and class 3 insurance companies is 0% to 2 %
  • The CIT for income derived from qualifying intellectual property (IP) is 4.5%
  • VAT (Value Added Tax) Rate is 17.5%

No, Barbados is not a tax haven, though it has a low tax in some conditions, it has no tax-free regimen. However, it provides secrecy to business people.

Yes, Barbados allows 100% foreign ownership, foreign investor can opt for International Business company (IBC) status, which is the most popular choice for offshore company in the country.

Here given below is the procedure to register an offshore company in Barbados:

  • Select the right structure for your business.
  • Ensure compliance with Barbados laws.
  • Reserve Company Name and Submit Form 33 to CAIPO for approval.
  • Provide KYC, director details, resolutions, and a notarized Memorandum & Articles of Association.
  • Set up an account with local or international banks. No travel is required.
  • Get an Income Tax Number and VAT from the Barbados Revenue Authority.

Given below are the reasons why company registration in Barbados is a great choice-

  • Favourable Tax Regime
  • Stable Political and Economic Circumstances
  • Strategic Location
  • Highly Skilled Workforce
  • Quality of Life

Yes, a company registered in Barbados is required to have a registered office address in Barbados.

There is no share capital required to start a business in Barbados.

The different types of business structures for company registration in Barbados are as follows:

  • Societies with Restricted Liability (SRLs)
  • International Business Companies (IBCs)
  • Regular Barbados Companies (RBCs)
  • International Societies with Restricted Liability (ISRLs)

The legal requirements for companies in Barbados are as follows:

  • All businesses must be registered with the Corporate Affairs and Intellectual Property Office (CAIPO).
  • The business name must also be registered with CAIPO.
  • Businesses must register with the Barbados Revenue Authority to obtain an employer’s national insurance number.
  • Employers must obtain an Income Tax Number and Value Added Tax (VAT) number from the Barbados Revenue Authority.

The total timeline for company registration in Barbados is around three to four weeks.

A minimum of one director of any nationality is required for company registration in Barbados.

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