Company Registration in Samoa- An Overview

Aspect Details
Timeline The timeline to obtain a Company Registration in Samoa takes around 5 to 10 working days.
Benefits

The benefits of company formation in Samoa are as discussed below:

  • No Corporate Income Tax
  • Strong Asset Protection
  • Friendly Business Tax Regime
  • Access to Funding
  • Strategic Location
  • 100% Foreign Ownership
  • High Level of Confidentiality
  • Offshore and Wealth Management
Documents Needed

The documents needed to apply for Company Registration in Samoa are provided below:

  • Passport Copies of all Shareholders
  • Passport Copies of all Directors
  • Proposed Company Name
  • Business Description
  • Shareholder/Beneficial Owner Details
  • Registered Office Address
  • Proof of Address
  • Bank Reference Letter
  • Memorandum of Association
  • Articles of Association
  • Share Certificates
  • Register of Directors
  • Register of Shareholders
  • Minutes of First Meeting
Eligibility Criteria

The eligibility criteria required for Company Registration in Samoa are as provided below:

  • A unique company name
  • A licensed agent
  • At least 1 director, 1 shareholder and a secretary
  • Registered office address in Samoa
  • An annual return and associated fees
  • No minimum paid-up capital
  • Shareholders and directors must be protected
Types of Companies in Samoa

The types of companies in Samoa are as provided below:

  • International Business Company (IBC)
  • Sole Proprietorship
  • Limited Liability Company (LLC)
  • Partnership Company
  • Company Limited by Guarantee
  • Asset Protection Company
  • Investment Holding Company
  • Foreign Company (Overseas Company)
Top Businesses Seeking Company Registration in Samoa

The top businesses seeking Company Registration in Samoa are as provided below:

  • Eco-resorts and Tour Service Businesses
  • Call Centres, Data Processing, and Tech Businesses
  • International Trading Companies
  • Organic Farming or Agro-Export Businesses
  • Seafood Processing and Export Firms
  • Retail and Wholesale Trade Enterprises
  • Renewable Energy Installers or Consultants
  • Educational or Language Training Centres
  • Construction and Real Estate Development Firms
  • Financial Consultancy or Offshore Advisory Services
Process

The process to obtain a full Company Registration in Samoa is as provided below:

  • Choose Company Type
  • Reserve a Company Name
  • Appoint a Registered Agent
  • Prepare Documentation
  • Submit Application to MCIL
  • Receive Certificate of Incorporation
  • Apply for TIN Registration
  • Open a Business Bank Account
Post-Company Registration Compliance Requirements

The post-company registration compliance requirements are as provided below:

  • File statutory annual returns with the relevant registry
  • Conduct annual general meeting (AGM) if all members agree in writing
  • Maintain financial records reflecting the financial position of the company
  • Obtain certain industries licenses subject to regulatory requirements
  • Report changes in directors, shareholders, share capital, or company address
  • Comply with Samoa’s AML regulations and other applicable laws
  • Maintain a local registered office address in Samoa
  • Obtain business licenses and sectoral approvals
  • Comply with the Labour and Employment Relations Act
How Enterslice Can Help You?
  • 10+ years of experience in global company incorporation
  • Trusted by 5000+ international clients across industries
  • Expert advisory on Samoa-specific corporate laws and tax structures
  • Custom solutions for startups, SMEs, and foreign investors
  • Provides comprehensive due diligence services for making informed decisions
  • End-to-end support from name reservation to post-incorporation compliance
  • Technology-enabled legal and compliance services
  • support with visa applications, work permits, and payroll structuring
  • Strong local and global regulatory network
  • Dedicated team for labour laws, tax, and annual return filing
  • Committed client support and team of qualified professionals
  • Provision of a local registered agent and address for one year
  • Offers premium bank support up to 5 applications
  • Helps secure TIN registration and municipal licensing (if applicable)
  • Provides professional guidance on ROC filings and reporting
  • Offers transparent pricing with no hidden costs
  • Provides regular updates on legal and regulatory changes in Samoa

Foreign Company Setup in Samoa with Enterslice

Hey smart entrepreneur! Do you wish to set up your business in Samoa at the best price? Go for a foreign company setup in Samoa with Enterslice!

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Understanding Company Registration in Samoa

Samoa is one of the fastest- emerging Pacific-island nations, offering international business incorporation in a tax friendly and investor-friendly jurisdiction. The global entrepreneurs who are seeking company registration in Samoa benefit from attractive tax incentives, flexible company structures, low setup costs, and a supportive offshore regime under the Samoa International Companies Act, 1987.

Company registration in Samoa is ideal for those seeking a high level of confidentiality, asset protection, and a simplified global expansion in the politically stable environment that supports long-term business growth. Additionally, the country’s stable political and economic environment further enhances its appeal as a business destination.

Samoa, located in the heart of the Pacific Ocean, offers access to a wide range of international financial solutions throughout the company registration process. With Enterslice, you get expert assistance from name reservation to filing with Samoa’s Ministry of Commerce, Industry and Labour (MCIL).

Fast company setup with 5 to 7 working days

100% foreign ownership allowed

No local director or shareholder required

No exchange control restrictions

Tax exempted for offshore corporations

No annual reporting requirements

Stable government and economy for many years

Confidentiality and asset protection

Compliance with simple & practical accounting

Legally recognized offshore business structures

Low annual government fees

Types of Companies in Samoa

The different types of companies in Samoa best suited to the needs of foreign investors and companies of all sizes are as discussed below:

ibc

International Business Company (IBC)

An international business company, i.e., IBC, is specifically structured for international trade, investment, and asset protection, making it a preferred choice for global entrepreneurs and investors. Looking for a business license in Samoa? You can proceed with Enterslice and go for this form of business structure.

sole proprietorship

Sole Proprietorship

A sole proprietorship, also known as a sole trader, is a simple business structure owned and operated by a single individual. It offers complete control and flexibility with the owner solely responsible for all aspects of the business, including liabilities and profits.

llc

Limited Liability Company (LLC)

A limited liability company, i.e., an LLC, is a business structure that provides limited liability protection to its members, meaning their personal assets are protected from business debts.

partnership

Partnership Company

A partnership is a type of business structure, where two or more individuals share ownership and jointly manage the responsibilities of the business. It is one of the substantial types of companies in Samoa

clg

Company Limited by Guarantee

A company limited by guarantee is a type of legal entity that is often used for non-profit organizations, charities, or associations, where members agree to contribute a nominal amount if the company is wound up.

Asset Protection Company

Asset Protection Company

An asset protection company is a type of structure for foreign company setup in Samoa designed to safeguard an individual’s or entity’s assets against creditors or legal judgments.

Investment Holding Company

Investment Holding Company

An investment holding company is a legal entity set up to own shares or assets in other companies rather than engage in direct business activities.

Foreign Company

Foreign Company (Overseas Company)

A Foreign company setup in Samoa, also known as an overseas company is a type of legal entity owned, controlled, and formed by people, having a legal or economic interest in the business.

How to Register a Company in Samoa?

The procedure to register a company in Samoa involves several key steps, ensuring full compliance with local regulations. Here’s a step-by-step guide for company registration in Samoa as discussed below:

Choose Company Type

The entrepreneurs must initially choose an appropriate company type based on their needs and business goals, operating within Samoa.

Reserve a Company Name

Next, the entrepreneurs must reserve a unique company name and obtain approval from the Samoa International Finance Authority (SIFA) or the Samoa Registrar of Companies.

Appoint a Registered Agent

The international investors seeking company registration in Samoa must appoint a local registered agent to handle the incorporation and ongoing compliance process.

Prepare Documentation

In the next step, the entrepreneurs must prepare due diligence documentation such as passport copies, address proof, source of fund declaration, etc.

Submit Application to MCIL

The next step requires the entrepreneurs to submit an application to the MCIL or SIFA, along with the government fees and trustee service charges.

Receive Certificate of Incorporation

Once the application is approved, the applicants receive a certificate of incorporation, which enables official registration of their business entity in Samoa.

Apply for TIN Registration

If your company intends to operate locally or employ staff, the entrepreneurs must apply for TIN registration with the Samoa Ministry of Revenue.

Open a Business Bank Account

Upon successful registration of the corporate entity in Samoa, the entrepreneurs must open a business bank account to manage financial transactions and support ongoing business operations.

Timeline for Samoa Business Incorporation

The timeline for Samoa business incorporation typically ranges between 5 and 10 working days, depending upon the type of entity and the responsiveness of local authorities, as discussed below:

Reserve Company Name: 1 to 2 Working Days

It takes around 1 to 2 working days for the reservation of a company name, through the Samoa Registrar of Companies under MCIL.

Preparation and Submission of Documents: 1 to 2 Working Days

It takes around 1 to 2 working days for the preparation and submission of documents such as the application form, MOA, AOA, consent form, etc.

Apply for Company Registration: 2 to 3 Working Days

It takes 2 to 3 working days to apply for company registration and obtain a certificate of incorporation from the MCIL.

Secure TIN Registration: 1 to 2 Working Days

The time taken to apply for TIN registration with the Samoa Ministry of Revenue takes around 1 to 2 working days.

Obtain Sectoral or Special Licenses: Timeline Varies

The time taken to obtain sectoral or special business licenses varies based on the requirements, delays, and other factors.

Documents Required for Company Formation in Samoa

Have a look at some of the documents required for company formation in Samoa, as discussed below:

Proposed Company Name

Passport Copies of all Shareholders

Passport Copies of all Directors

Business Description

Registered Office Address

Proof of Address

Shareholder/Beneficial Owner Details

Bank Reference Letter

Memorandum of Association

Articles of Association

Share Certificates

Register of Directors

Register of Shareholders

Minutes of First Meeting

Benefits of Online Company Registration in Samoa

The online company registration in Samoa attracts numerous benefits, making it an attractive jurisdiction for international business setup, as discussed below:

samoa Business Incorporation

No Corporate Income Tax

The entrepreneurs seeking online company registration in Samoa enjoy full exemption from corporate income tax, making it a highly attractive destination for offshore business operations.

Strong Asset Protection

The online company registration in Samoa offers a robust legal framework providing double-layered protection for business assets from creditors and lawsuits.

Friendly Business Tax Regime

The online company registration in Samoa offers significant business-friendly tax exemptions in corporate, income withholding, inheritance, and capital gains.

Access to Funding

Samoa’s business-friendly environment facilitates easy access to funding and a range of investment opportunities for both local and foreign entrepreneurs.

Strategic Location

The online company registration in Samoa offers access to a strategic location, offering easy access to developing markets of Asia and America.

100% Foreign Ownership

The online company registration in Samoa permits 100% foreign ownership of International Companies (ICs), giving overseas investors full control over their business operations.

High Level of Confidentiality

Samoa, which upholds a high level of confidentiality laws, especially for International Business Companies (IBCs/ ICs), ensures strong privacy and protection of ownership details for business owners.

Offshore and Wealth Management

Company registration in a well-recognized offshore jurisdiction enables setting up trusts, foundations, and holding companies, widely used for HNWIs and global investors.

Requirements for Company Registration in Samoa

The requirements for company registration in Samoa are as discussed below:

  • Company Name: A unique company name which is not already registered is required for company formation in Samoa.
  • Registered Agent: A licensed agent who is a resident of Samoa is required to manage the company incorporation process.
  • Directors and Shareholders: The entrepreneurs seeking company formation in Samoa need at least 1 director, 1 shareholder and a secretary, responsible for company’s management.
  • Registered Office: The entrepreneurs seeking company formation in Samoa must have a registered office address in Samoa.
  • Annual Return: An annual return and associated fees must be filed with the Samoa Registrar of Companies.
  • No Minimum Capital: No minimum paid-up capital is needed for company formation in Samoa.
  • Confidentiality: The information about the shareholders and directors must be protected and not publicly disclosed.

Top Industries for Samoa Business Incorporation

The list of the top 10 industries for Samoa business incorporation is mentioned below-

Top 10 Industries Permitted for Investment in Samoa

  • Tourism and Hospitality Industry
  • Agriculture and Agro-Processing Industry
  • Fisheries and Aquaculture Industry
  • Renewable Energy Industry
  • Infrastructure Development Industry
  • Manufacturing and Light Industry
  • ICT and Business Process Outsourcing (BPO) Industry
  • Education and Training Services
  • Financial and Professional Services Industry
  • Real Estate Industry

Top 10 Businesses Permitted for Investment in Samoa

  • Eco-resorts and Tour Service Businesses
  • Call Centres, Data Processing, and Tech Businesses
  • International Trading Companies
  • Organic Farming or Agro-Export Businesses
  • Seafood Processing and Export Firms
  • Retail and Wholesale Trade Enterprises
  • Renewable Energy Installers or Consultants
  • Educational or Language Training Centres
  • Construction and Real Estate Development Firms
  • Financial Consultancy or Offshore Advisory Services

Post- Corporate Compliance for Company Formation in Samoa

The post-corporate compliance for company formation in Samoa is showcased below-

  • File Statutory Annual Returns with the Relevant Registry
  • Conduct Annual General Meeting (AGM) if all Members Agree in Writing
  • Maintain Financial Records Reflecting the Financial Position of the Company
  • Get Certain Industry Licenses Subject to Regulatory Requirements
  • Report Changes in Directors, Shareholders, Share Capital, or Company Address
  • Comply with Samoa’s AML Regulations and Other Applicable Laws
  • Maintain a Local Registered Office Address in Samoa
  • Obtain Business Licenses and Sectoral Approvals
  • Comply with the Labour and Employment Relations Act
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Why Trust Enterslice for Company Registration in Samoa?

Choosing Enterslice for company registration in Samoa ensures a smooth, reliable, and fully compliant business setup experience for entrepreneurs looking to expand into the Pacific region. Connect with us to simplify the legal and regulatory process, ensuring company registration in Samoa:

  • 10+ years of experience in global company incorporation
  • Trusted by 1000+ international clients for company registration in Samoa
  • Expert advisory on Samoa-specific corporate laws and tax structures
  • Custom solutions for startups, SMEs, and foreign investors
  • Provides comprehensive due diligence services for making informed decisions
  • End-to-end support from name reservation to post-incorporation compliance
  • Technology-enabled legal and compliance services
  • Support with visa applications, work permits, and payroll structuring
  • Strong local and global regulatory network
  • Dedicated team for labour laws, tax, and annual return filing
  • Committed client support and team of qualified professionals
  • Provision of a local registered agent and address for one year
  • Offers premium bank support up to 5 applications
  • Helps secure TIN registration and municipal licensing (if applicable)
  • Provides professional guidance on ROC filings and reporting
  • Offers transparent pricing with no hidden costs
  • Provides regular updates on legal and regulatory changes in Samoa

FAQs on Company Registration in Samoa

Have a look at the following answers to the most asked questions:

To search for a Samoa company, the entities must access information about companies operating in Samoa through the online Samoa Company Registry.

Yes, Samoa is considered a tax heaven for local residents and international offshore companies, free from all local taxation, including taxes on profits, capital gains, transactions, and contracts.

There is no minimum share capital required to invest for the setup of Samoa International Company (IC).

A sole trader in Samoa is a business setup having full control over and personal liability for all business debts and taxes.

No, a Samoa offshore company (IBC) is exempt from any form of tax liability, as long as the IBC does not conduct its business in Samoa.

The benefits of company formation in Samoa include 0% corporate income tax for international companies, no capital gains tax, and robust confidentiality protections for shareholders and directors.

An international company (IC) is a form of business structure ideal for international trade, investment activities, and asset protection.

The timeframe required to form a company in Samoa takes around 5 to 10 working days, provided that all required documentation is in order and there are no complications.

The list of services offered for company registration in Samoa includes the following as provided below:

  • Incorporation of International Companies (ICs)
  • Registered office and Registered Agents (Trustees) services
  • Corporate secretarial services
  • Corporate incorporation and structuring in ALL major jurisdictions
  • Assistance with the establishment of bank accounts outside the jurisdiction
  • Registration of branch offices of foreign companies
  • Virtual office services

The list of documents required for registering a company in Samoa includes Proposed Company Name, Passport Copies of all Directors, Passport Copies of all Shareholders, Business Description, Proof of Address, Registered Office Address, Bank Reference Letter, Shareholder/Beneficial Owner Details, Articles of Association, Memorandum of Association, Register of Directors, Share Certificates, Minutes of First Meeting, and Register of Shareholders.

Yes, Samoa, which is one of the few remaining jurisdictions, still permit bearer shares under strict regulatory conditions.

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