Anjouan
Company Formation
Anjouan, part of the Union of the Comoros, is an emerging international business hub offering a stable political environment, competitive tax advantages and a growing infrastructure designed to support global business operations.
With its strategic location in the Indian Ocean, Anjouan provides an attractive jurisdiction for companies across various industries, including finance, technology and trade. The jurisdiction benefits from a business-friendly regulatory framework, coupled with low corporate taxes making it an appealing choice for businesses seeking to expand into Africa, the Middle East and beyond.
Anjouan’s flexible legal system and access to international markets offer businesses an ideal platform to grow while benefiting from its favourable tax policies and competitive operational costs.
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Should you incorporate in Anjouan?
- Anjouan is a cost-effective, tax-efficient jurisdiction ideal for offshore financial services.
- With no corporate taxes on offshore activities, it offers significant tax savings.
- The minimal regulatory framework allows for easy incorporation and low-cost licences support banks, insurance companies and investment funds.
- Anjouan provides high confidentiality and low operational costs, making it an ideal choice for international businesses.
- Start-ups in financial services benefit from a flexible and supportive environment, making Anjouan a strong choice for growth.
Key Contacts
Alexia Panzavecchia
Claire Marie Calleja Zammit
Downloads
Useful Links
Key Information Overview
 | Types of Companies | International Business Company (IBC), Limited Liability Company (LLC), Branch |
 | Minimum Share Capital | IBC: No minimum share capital required |
 | Registered Office | Must have a registered office in Anjouan |
 | Shareholders & Directors | At least 1 shareholder, 1 director |
 | Bank Account | Either a local or international bank account, depending on the business operations and type of company |
 | Tax Regime | 0% corporate tax for IBCs |
 | Time to Complete Incorporation | 1-2 weeks |
 | Annual Maintenance Costs | Low annual fees; includes registration and compliance |
 | Audit Requirements | Audits typically not required for IBCs |
 | Market Access | Global access with flexible regulatory requirements |
 | Key Benefits | 0% tax for IBCs, confidentiality, low operating costs |
 | Legal Framework | Based on French civil law and Comorian law |
 | Physical Presence Requirements | Registered office required |
 | Corporate Governance Requirements | At least 1 director and 1 shareholder |
 | Language Requirements | French, but English is widely used for business |
 | Tax Residency Rules | Managed and controlled from Anjouan |
 | Required Documents | Memorandum & Articles of Association, ID proof, registered office address |
 | Compliance & Reporting | Minimal compliance requirements, annual returns |
 | Employee and Payroll Requirements | No local payroll obligations for IBCs |
Types of Companies
Anjouan provides several corporate structures designed to meet the needs of businesses from various industries, with an emphasis on simplicity and flexibility.
01
International Business Company (IBC)
- The most common company type in Anjouan, suitable for international trading, asset management and investment.
- Provides limited liability and flexible corporate governance structures.
02
Offshore Bank
Anjouan is known for issuing offshore banking licences, providing an attractive platform for international banking operations.
03
Offshore Insurance Company
Designed for international insurance companies, providing a framework for underwriting risks outside of the jurisdiction.
04
Branch of a Foreign Company
Foreign companies can establish a branch in Anjouan to conduct business without the need for full incorporation.
05
Special Purpose Vehicles (SPVs)
Anjouan’s flexible regulatory environment makes it an attractive jurisdiction for SPVs, often used for asset management, banking and other international financial activities. SPVs in Anjouan benefit from minimal regulations and low operational costs.
Offshore Holding Company
Used to hold shares in other companies or manage international investments. Anjouan’s offshore regime offers tax advantages and confidentiality for holding companies.
Securitisation Vehicle
SPVs are frequently used in the financial sector to manage securitisation projects, providing legal and tax-efficient solutions for international investors.
Asset Management Companies
Anjouan allows the formation of SPVs for asset management, providing flexible governance and tax optimisation for high-net-worth individuals and corporations.
Investment Funds
Anjouan is emerging as a hub for offshore investment funds, providing a regulatory environment that supports international investors and fund managers.
Start-Ups
Anjouan is an attractive jurisdiction for start-ups looking to operate internationally, especially in the financial services, asset management and e-commerce sectors. The low cost of incorporation, minimal tax obligations and simplified regulatory framework make it an appealing choice for new businesses.
Tax Incentives:
No Corporate Taxes: Anjouan does not impose corporate taxes on offshore companies, providing significant tax savings for start-ups.
Government Support:
Licensing for Financial Services: Anjouan offers low-cost licensing for offshore banks, insurance companies and investment funds, making it ideal for financial start-ups.
Business Support:
Simple Regulatory Requirements: Anjouan’s offshore financial centre provides a straightforward and minimal regulatory environment, reducing the burden on start-ups.
Access to Markets:
Strategic Location: Anjouan’s location between Africa and the Middle East makes it a convenient jurisdiction for businesses looking to operate across multiple regions.
Digital-Friendly Environment:
Emerging Hub for Financial Services: Anjouan is becoming recognised as an offshore hub for financial services, particularly for start-ups in banking, insurance and asset management.
B
Grade B: Start-Up Friendly
Anjouan is an attractive destination for start-ups in the offshore financial services industry, with minimal taxation, low incorporation costs and simplified regulatory processes. However, the support infrastructure for tech start-ups is less developed compared to other jurisdictions.
Benefits
Anjouan provides several advantages for international businesses, particularly those in financial services and asset management, thanks to its flexible and low-cost regulatory framework.
No Corporate Taxes
Anjouan does not impose corporate taxes on offshore companies, making it an attractive jurisdiction for international businesses seeking tax efficiency.
Low-Cost Incorporation
The cost of incorporation in Anjouan is relatively low compared to other offshore jurisdictions, providing a cost-effective option for businesses.
Financial Services Licences
Anjouan is known for offering affordable and accessible offshore licences for banks, insurance companies and investment funds.
Simple Regulatory Environment
Anjouan offers a straightforward regulatory framework, allowing businesses to operate with minimal compliance requirements.
Confidentiality
The jurisdiction provides a high level of confidentiality for businesses, particularly for financial services companies and SPVs.
Requirements
Incorporating a company in Anjouan involves fulfilling several basic legal and administrative requirements, although the process is simpler and more cost-effective than in many other jurisdictions.
01
Shareholders
A minimum of one shareholder is required for IBCs and other offshore entities. Shareholders can be individuals or legal entities, with no restrictions on nationality or residency.
02
Directors
At least one director is required, with no residency requirements. Directors can be individuals or corporate entities.
03
Company Secretary
There is no requirement to appoint a company secretary, although some businesses choose to do so for administrative purposes.
04
Registered Office
Every company must have a registered office in Anjouan, which will serve as its official address for legal matters.
05
Minimum Share Capital
There is no minimum share capital requirement for most companies in Anjouan, allowing flexibility for start-ups and small businesses.
06
Bank Account
While not mandatory, it is advisable for companies to open a corporate bank account, either in Anjouan or internationally, for operational purposes.
Mergers & Acquisitions
TAILORED SUPPORT to fast-track your market entry
Our Mergers & Acquisitions services are designed to assist clients in acquiring existing companies with pre-established licenses, streamlining the process of entering or expanding in key markets. These services are particularly relevant for investors seeking to fast-track their market entry while ensuring efficient and compliant solutions.
Identifying Suitable Businesses
We help clients locate companies that meet their specific goals, focusing on entities with strong operational histories and the required licenses.
Legal and Regulatory Assistance
Our experts guide clients through the unique legal and compliance frameworks of each market, ensuring a smooth acquisition process with minimal risk.
Valuation & Due Diligence
We conduct in-depth assessments of the target company’s financial and operational status, providing transparency and confidence in the acquisition.
Post-Acquisition Support
For clients who decide to divest, we offer comprehensive services to facilitate the sale of the company and transfer of licenses.
Frequently Asked Questions
What is the corporate tax rate in Anjouan?
Anjouan offers a very low or even 0% corporate tax rate for international businesses, making it highly attractive for offshore companies.
Are there withholding taxes on dividends or interest in Anjouan?
No, Anjouan does not impose withholding taxes on dividends, interest, or royalties, which is beneficial for international investors.
What legal structures are available for businesses in Anjouan?
Common structures include International Business Companies (IBCs), which are particularly attractive for international trade and investment.
Are audited financial statements required in Anjouan?
Companies are generally required to maintain financial records, and audits may be required based on the size and nature of the business.
Is VAT applicable in Anjouan?
No, Anjouan does not impose VAT, making it an appealing jurisdiction for businesses looking to minimise indirect taxes.
Does Anjouan have double taxation treaties?
Anjouan does not have a significant network of double taxation treaties, but businesses operating through holding structures can still achieve tax efficiency.
Are there residency requirements for directors in Anjouan?
No, Anjouan does not require directors to be residents, providing flexibility for international business owners.
What is the process for incorporating a company in Anjouan?
Incorporation involves registering with the local authorities, drafting the Articles of Association and completing the necessary documentation.
How long does it take to incorporate a company in Anjouan?
The incorporation process typically takes 2 to 4 weeks, depending on the speed at which the necessary documents are prepared and submitted.
Need assistance?
Whether you have queries, need further assistance or would like to request a quote for any of our services, please don’t hesitate to contact us.
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