Month 1: Preparation Phase (Days 1–30)
✅ 1. Define your objectives
Clarify why you need an offshore company (tax planning, asset protection, business expansion).
✅ 2. Select the jurisdiction
Compare 2–3 options based on your needs (tax rates, substance rules, reputation, banking ease).
✅ 3. Choose company structure
Decide between IBC, LLC, holding company, trust, etc.
✅ 4. Find and vet a Registered Agent
Research agents carefully (look for 5+ years of experience, real offices, clear pricing).
✅ 5. Gather documentation
- Passport copies (certified)
- Proof of address (recent utility bill or bank statement)
- Bank reference or professional reference
- CV/resume
- Business description
✅ 6. Budget planning
Prepare initial setup costs ($3,000–$10,000 depending on jurisdiction).
Month 2: Incorporation Phase (Days 31–60)
✅ 1. Company name reservation
Choose 2–3 names in case your first choice is taken.
✅ 2. Submit incorporation documents
Your agent files incorporation with the local registrar.
✅ 3. Receive incorporation package
Includes:
- Certificate of Incorporation
- Memorandum & Articles of Association
- Share certificates
- Corporate register
✅ 4. Appoint directors/shareholders
Officially appoint yourself or nominees.
✅ 5. Apply for Tax ID (if required)
Some countries may issue you a company tax number automatically; others may require application.
Month 3: Banking & Launch Phase (Days 61–90)
✅ 1. Choose and apply to offshore banks
Provide full due diligence documents.
Be ready for interviews (sometimes banks request video calls).
✅ 2. Open business bank account
Once approved, deposit minimum balances if required.
✅ 3. Set up virtual office services (optional)
- Business address
- Phone answering service
- Local contact person
✅ 4. (Optional) Hire a local accountant or compliance officer
Helps maintain accounting and renewal obligations.
✅ 5. Start business operations
Now you can legally invoice clients, accept payments, hold assets, and operate internationally.
Visual Timeline Summary
Week | Tasks |
1–2 | Define goals, select jurisdiction, choose structure |
3–4 | Hire registered agent, prepare documents |
5–6 | Company incorporation and name reservation |
7–8 | Receive company documents, appoint directors/shareholders |
9–10 | Apply for bank accounts |
11–12 | Open account, set up virtual office, begin operations |
Additional Pro Tips for Success
🚀 Keep extra certified copies of all your documents — banks or regulators often ask for them unexpectedly.
🚀 Use multiple banks if possible — diversification reduces operational risks.
🚀 Stay 100% transparent with your home country tax authority if disclosure is legally required (e.g., U.S. FATCA laws).
🚀 Renew your company on time — missing renewals can trigger expensive fines or dissolution.
