Frequently asked questions

What is an offshore company?

An offshore company is a corporation, LLC or IBC incorporated in a jurisdiction other than where its owner lives or operates. Offshore structures are used for international trade, asset holding, investment and, in some jurisdictions, formal tax planning — always within the applicable laws of each country.

How long does incorporation usually take?

Most Caribbean and Pacific IBCs are ready in one to five working days. US LLCs, Hong Kong limited companies and UAE free-zone companies typically take one to two weeks. We always confirm a realistic timeline for your exact jurisdiction before you pay.

How much does an offshore company cost?

Government-fee-inclusive packages start from around US$ 1,490 (Seychelles) to US$ 3,900 and beyond for premium jurisdictions such as Cayman, Cook Islands or Dubai. We publish transparent, all-in pricing and quote a fixed figure for your requirements.

Do I need a local director or nominee?

By default we incorporate with your own directors and shareholders, which is fully legal in most jurisdictions. Where privacy or residency requirements apply, we can arrange regulated nominee directors and shareholders under documented control frameworks.

Are offshore companies legal?

Yes. Offshore incorporation is a legitimate business practice used by millions of businesses globally. The legality of any related tax arrangement depends on your country's tax law — we always advise you to confirm the position with your own tax advisor.

Can I open a company without travelling anywhere?

Yes. Our entire onboarding process is remote — a secure digital application, virtual identity verification and electronic signing. Physical presence is not required in any of the jurisdictions we administer.

Can the company registration include a bank account?

For selected jurisdictions and bank relationships, yes — our "formation plus account" packages bundle incorporation with a corporate account opening, subject to the bank's own due diligence on your business.

Which banks do you work with?

We maintain relationships with traditional international banks, private banks and licensed digital/EMI providers across Europe, the Caribbean, the Middle East and Asia. We match your activity profile to the most bankable option.

What documents are required to open an account?

Typically a certified passport, proof of address, company incorporation documents, a business description, and statements identifying the beneficial owner. Requirements vary by bank — we provide an exact checklist before you apply.

Is remote account opening really possible?

Yes. Nearly all relationships we arrange are opened fully remotely through video calls and secure document upload. A small number of premium private banks still request an in-person visit, which we will flag to you in advance.

What is the difference between an offshore trust and a company?

A company is owned by shareholders; a trust is a legal arrangement where a trustee legally holds assets for beneficiaries. Trusts are the classic vehicle for succession, privacy and asset protection; companies are the classic vehicle for trading. We combine both where appropriate.

How long does it take to establish a trust?

A standard discretionary trust can be drafted and settled in one to three weeks. International trust structures with foundations and multi-layer planning typically take six to ten weeks from initial consultation to fully funded implementation.

Are trusts subject to reporting?

This depends on your country of tax residence. Many jurisdictions have beneficial-ownership registries and automatic exchange of information regimes. We build your structure tax-transparent and compliant by design, and always recommend independent legal advice on reporting obligations.

Which licences can you obtain?

We handle banking licences (Class A and Class B), Electronic Money Institution and PSP licences, forex and broker licences, crypto/fintech licences, gaming and gambling licences, and fund manager registrations across eight core jurisdictions.

How long does a licence typically take?

Simple financial services licences can be issued in two to six months. Banking licences and EU EMI licences typically take six to twelve months depending on the jurisdiction and the readiness of your business plan and capital.

Do I need to travel for a licence interview?

In most modern regimes, interviews are conducted by video conference. For certain EU licences a meeting with the regulator may be required, which we prepare you for and attend alongside you.

What capital is required?

Capital requirements vary widely — from around US$ 500,000 for offshore banking licences, to EUR 350,000 for an EU EMI, to modest amounts for some gaming and broker licences. We give you the exact, current minimum for your target licence.

Do you offer citizenship by investment programmes?

Yes — we advise on and manage citizenship-by-investment and residency-by-investment programmes in over fifty countries, including the Caribbean CIPs, European golden-visa-style programmes and UAE Golden Visas.

Can I work remotely while holding a residency permit?

Many jurisdictions now offer digital-nomad and remote-worker visas. We assess your nationality, income source and mobility goals and recommend the programme with the best fit.

Is Offshore Mercantile a bank?

No. Offshore Mercantile is a professional advisory and corporate services firm. We are not a bank, financial institution or payment card issuer. We arrange introductions and manage the application process on your behalf with licensed institutions.

How do we keep our conversations confidential?

Your privacy is a contractual priority. We operate under non-disclosure obligations, use end-to-end encrypted communication channels and never share your information with third parties without your written consent.

How do I pay for your services?

We issue invoices in USD or EUR and accept bank transfer, card and, for many product lines, cryptocurrency settlement. All government and third-party fees are disclosed up front, transparently.

What happens after my company or account is established?

We remain your long-term partner — handling annual renewals, registered agent services, compliance, changes to directors or shareholders, banking support and restructuring whenever your circumstances evolve.