Gibraltar, a British Overseas Territory located at the southern tip of the Iberian Peninsula, is a hub for international business and financial services. Its strategic location, robust regulatory framework, and attractive tax regime make Gibraltar an ideal destination for company registration and company redomiciliation. Let us explain, how to register a company in Gibraltar.
Why choose Gibraltar?
Gibraltar offers a range of features and benefits that make it an attractive location for company registration. Here are some reasons why you might consider Gibraltar:
Favorable Tax Regime
Gibraltar has one of the lowest corporate tax rates in Europe, enticing foreign investors to set up a company there. All incorporated companies impose a corporate tax rate of 10%, except for utility, energy, and fuel supply companies where a corporate tax rate of 20% is imposed.
If the business carries out its profit-making operations outside of Gibraltar, such as a holding company, it will not be subjected to corporate tax.
In addition, there are no capital gains tax, wealth tax, sales tax, value-added tax, and withholding tax on dividends levied in Gibraltar.
Ease of Incorporation Process
Gibraltar companies offer swift incorporation, full UK compatibility, and tax benefits. The Gibraltar Companies Act is based on English legislation and the Gibraltar Companies Registry is now fully automated.
Stable and Resilient Economy
Gibraltar’s economy has been widely diversified for the past four decades. Its economy now mainly consists of four sectors namely financial services, online gaming, shipping, and tourism.
There is a low unemployment rate of around 1% in Gibraltar which is an indicator of a healthy economy.
Credibility
Gibraltar is located in Europe and hardly differs from other modern European countries in terms of welfare, security standards, and the way of life.
International Compliance
Gibraltar has given consent to 27 information exchange agreements set forth by the European Union and Organisation for Economic Cooperation and Development.
This provides provisions on taxes, loans, or transfer of assets to avoid double taxation of income generated in Gibraltar by foreign companies.
Free Enterprise
Gibraltar has created an environment that affords excellent ‘ease of doing business’, a favorable tax environment, a common law legal system, competitive operating costs, a productive, flexible, and highly trained workforce, and a well-developed infrastructure with world-class support services.
These factors make Gibraltar an ideal location for setting up a company or for company redomiciliation.
However, it’s always advisable to seek professional advice from trusted corporates as Octopus International Business Services to ensure that you meet all legal requirements and make the most of the opportunities available.
How does Gibraltar compare to other European financial centers?
Gibraltar, as a European financial center, has several unique advantages that distinguish it from other financial centers in Europe. Here’s how:
Fintech and Blockchain Leadership
Gibraltar was the first jurisdiction in the world to implement a purpose-built legislative framework for fintech businesses that use ‘blockchain’ or distributed ledger technology (DLT).
This has led to a significant increase in applications for DLT Provider Licences. Gibraltar is also working on introducing the world’s first regulations for initial coin offerings with dedicated rules for the cryptocurrency sector.
Post-Brexit Market Access
The UK and Gibraltar governments have agreed on proposals for the continuation of a common market between the UK and Gibraltar following the UK’s exit from both the EU and the European Economic Area. This ensures Gibraltar’s access to the UK market post-Brexit.
Insurance Business
Over 90% of Gibraltar’s insurance business is with the UK. With passporting rights from Gibraltar into the UK secure post-Brexit, Gibraltar remains a unique alternative domicile for insurance businesses that are focused on the UK market.
Ease of Doing Business
Gibraltar continues its status as a safe and stable global financial centre, and it is easy to see why many people want to incorporate Gibraltar companies. It enjoys easy access to the EU, UK and other international markets.
When compared to other European financial centers, London continues to lead in Europe. Geneva is the only other European city to join London in the top 10. Frankfurt, home of the European Central Bank, has snagged the third top European spot from Paris. Other European cities in the top 20 are Luxembourg, Zurich, and Amsterdam.
Step-by-step guide on how to register a company in Gibraltar:
Step 1: Decide on the Type of Company
The first step in the company registration process in Gibraltar is deciding on the type of company you want to establish. Gibraltar offers several types of companies, including private limited companies, public limited companies, and limited liability partnerships.
Each type has its own set of requirements and benefits, so it’s important to choose the one that best suits your business needs.
Step 2: Choose a Company Name
The next step is to choose a unique name for your company. The name must not be identical or too similar to an existing company’s name. It should also not be misleading or offensive.
You can check the availability of a company name through the Gibraltar Companies Registry.
Step 3: Prepare the Necessary Documents
To register a company in Gibraltar, you will need to prepare several documents. These include the Memorandum and Articles of Association, which outline the company’s purpose and internal rules, and a statement of compliance confirming that the company meets all legal requirements. You will also need to provide details of the company’s directors and shareholders.
Step 4: Submit the Registration Application
Once you have prepared all the necessary documents, you can submit your registration application to the Gibraltar Companies Registry. The application can be submitted online or in person. You will also need to pay the registration fee at this stage.
Step 5: Open a Bank Account
After your company has been registered, you will need to open a bank account in Gibraltar. This will allow you to manage your company’s finances and conduct business transactions.
Gibraltar’s banks offer a range of financial services tailored to the needs of international businesses that register under the jurisdiction of the gibraltar financial services commission.
Step 6: Apply for a Business License
Finally, you will need to apply for a business license to legally operate your company in Gibraltar. The type of license you need will depend on the nature of your business. Some businesses may also require additional licenses or permits.
Company Redomiciliation in Gibraltar
In addition to company registration, Gibraltar also offers company redomiciliation services. This allows a company registered in another jurisdiction to move its domicile to Gibraltar while retaining its legal identity.
The process involves submitting an application to the Gibraltar Companies Registry, along with the necessary documents and fees.
Conclusion
Registering a company in Gibraltar offers numerous benefits for international businesses, including access to a wide range of financial services, a favorable tax regime, and a robust regulatory framework.
Whether you’re starting a new company or looking to redomicile an existing one, Gibraltar provides a welcoming and supportive environment for businesses of all sizes and sectors.
Remember, while this guide provides a general overview of the company registration process in Gibraltar, it’s always advisable to seek professional advice to ensure that you meet all legal requirements and make the most of the opportunities available.
