A waterfront scene in Saint Lucia featuring a red-roofed building surrounded by lush greenery and palm trees. Boats are docked in the clear blue water. The image is labeled with "BIZLATIN HUB", highlighting opportunities for company formation in Saint Lucia.

How does company formation in Saint Lucia work?

A world map highlights a close-up of Saint Lucia within a blue circle, perfect for businesses interested in company formation in Saint Lucia. It marks Castries (Capital), Gros Islet (Town), Soufriere (Town), and Vieux Fort (Port City). The Biz Latin Hub logo and website URL are in the lower right corner.

St. Lucia is a beautiful Caribbean Island famous for its beaches, tropical climate and welcoming people, and is not only attractive as a tourist destination, but also as a business-friendly jurisdiction. Entrepreneurs seeking business development opportunities here may consider company formation in Saint Lucia a wise strategic decision.

The island nation offers a number of attractive tax incentives for businesses, such as tax vacations, exemptions and low corporate tax rates, all of which enhance the profitability and improve the competitiveness of investors wishing to establish a presence in St. Lucia. Opting for company formation in Saint Lucia not only takes advantage of the island’s natural beauty and favorable business climate, but also unlocks a number of financial advantages.

This article provides some useful information for foreign investors and companies who are considering company formation in Saint Lucia. At Biz Latin Hub we are experts in the Caribbean and Latin America, which means we can help you get your business off the ground smoothly and quickly.

SEE ALSO: Company Formation in Guyana: a 7 Step Guide

Company formation St. Lucia: What is an IBC? 

All foreign companies that incorporate in Saint Lucia must comply with the International Business Company (IBC) Act and are thereafter known as IBCs. Foreign businesses domiciled in Saint Lucia used to enjoy tax exemptions, but that all changed in 2019. Company formation in Saint Lucia, including IBCs, are now taxed at 30 percent on income from locally-sourced business, however, income generated by IBCs abroad is exempt from local taxes. Companies that incorporated before the 2019 amendment to the IBC Act continue to enjoy tax exemptions on Saint Lucia-generated income.

An infographic titled "St. Lucia: Market Snapshot" features key information about the country, including its 181,000 population, $2 billion GDP, and a GDP per capita (PPP) of $18,972. It highlights Castries as the capital and major exports like beer and paper containers. The background shows part of the St. Lucia flag with data based on the 2022 World
The economy makes many consider company formation in Saint Lucia

What are the minimum requirements to incorporate a Limited Company in Saint Lucia?

Incorporating a Limited Company (Ltd.) in Saint Lucia involves meeting several minimum requirements:

  • Directors and Shareholders: A minimum of one director and one shareholder are required, who can be individuals or corporations. Directors and shareholders can be of any nationality and residency.
  • Registered Office: A local registered office address in Saint Lucia is mandatory for the company.
  • Company Secretary: Appointment of a company secretary is required, who can be an individual or a corporation. The company secretary can be of any nationality and residency.
  • Minimum Share Capital: There is no specific minimum share capital requirement.
  • Company Name: Choose a unique name for the company, which must not resemble or be identical to any existing company name in Saint Lucia.
  • Articles of Incorporation: Prepare the Articles of Incorporation, which outline the company’s regulations, objectives, share structure, and internal governance.
  • Memorandum of Association: Draft a Memorandum of Association, which specifies the company’s constitution and objects.
  • Legal Agent: Appoint a legal agent who must be a licensed attorney or law firm in Saint Lucia.
  • Government Fees and Taxes: Pay the requisite government fees and taxes associated with the incorporation process.
  • Submission of Documents: Submit all necessary incorporation documents, including the Articles of Incorporation and Memorandum of Association, to the Saint Lucia Companies Registry.

Company Formation in Saint Lucia: What are the perks?

In recent years, Saint Lucia has become an attractive Caribbean destination for foreign investment thanks to the multiple benefits offered by the government to encourage IBCs to set up shop on the island. Here are some of the benefits the come from company formation in Saint Lucia:

  • No minimum capital or up-front capital is required.
  • No restrictions on resident foreign companies to conduct international business.
  • Shareholders and directors are not included in public records, allowing for greater privacy.
  • IBCs are only required to file annual unaudited financial statements.
  • Income made outside of Saint Lucia is tax free; only local income is subject to income taxes. 
  • Saint Lucia has a reputation as a well-regulated, transparent jurisdiction, and is not considered a “tax haven” by international financial regulators. 
  • There are several financial incentives in place to encourage domestic and foreign investment. For example, foreign investors in Saint Lucia can repatriate all profits, dividends, and import capital to their countries of origin.
  • There is no limit on the amount of foreign ownership or control in the establishment of a business in Saint Lucia.  The government allows 100 percent foreign ownership of companies in any sector.
An informational graphic titled "5 Steps to company formation in Saint Lucia." The steps are: 1. Name Search. 2. Registration with the Commercial Registry Agency. 3. Make company seal. 4. Obtain taxpayer identification number. 5. Register with the social security institute.

The graphic includes the Biz Latin Hub logo, website www.bizlatinhub.com, and contact email contact
Learn about Company Formation in Saint Lucia

5 Steps guide to company formation in St. Lucia:

Here are the 5 steps to form a company in St. Lucia:

  • Step 1 – Name Search.
  • Step 2 – Registration with the Commercial Registry Agency.
  • Step 3 – Make company seal.
  • Step 4 – Obtain taxpayer identification number.
  • Step 5 – Register as an employer with the social security institute.

Below we explore each of these points in more detail:

Company formation in Saint Lucia requires that a business name be registered. A local attorney can conduct a name search. Companies cannot have a name that’s similar to a business that’s already registered on the island. Businesses must have the words “corporation,” “limited,” “incorporated” or their abbreviations in their company name – depending on the type of company they register as. This process can be completed in two days.

Step 2 – Registration with the Commercial Registry Agency

Registering a company with the Commercial Registry of Saint Lucia must pay a fee of $850 Eastern Caribbean Dollars (XCD), or the equivalent of $314 USD. The Registry will issue a certification of incorporation to the new IBC when all relevant paperwork is submitted. The processing time typically takes one week. 

Step 3 – Create a company seal

The IBC Act does not require IBCs to have a company seal, but it’s a good idea to have one, as opening a business bank account on the island requires that a business has one. It’s also required to make certain kinds of account transactions. Many companies use a rubber stamp as an official signature, while others make a simple seal, which takes about two days.

Step 4 – Obtain taxpayer identification number

The managing director of the IBC must apply for a tax number in person from the Inland Revenue Department, or the business can hire the services of a local legal/administrative professional to do so on its behalf. The tax identification number (TIN) process takes about one business day.

Step 5 – Register as an employer with social security authorities

Finally, the business must be registered with the National Insurance Corporation so that the business is understood to be an employer in the social security system. This process takes one day to complete. 

Frequently asked questions when incorporating a company in St. Lucia

According to our experience, these are the most common questions and doubts of our clients when incorporating a company in St. Lucia.

Can a foreigner have a business in Saint Lucia?

Yes, foreigners can own and operate businesses in Saint Lucia. Saint Lucia welcomes foreign investment and offers a relatively open and business-friendly environment for foreign entrepreneurs and investors.

What is the St Lucia Company Tax ID (TIN)?

The St Lucia Company Tax ID is known as the Tax Identification Number (TIN), a unique identifier for tax purposes.

How long does it take to register a company in Saint Lucia?

Registering a company in Saint Lucia typically takes around 8-10 weeks, depending on the type of business entity and the completeness of the application.

What does IBC company name mean in Saint Lucia?

In Saint Lucia, IBC stands for International Business Company. An IBC is a type of offshore company designed for international business operations, offering various tax benefits and privacy advantages.

What types of entities offer Limited Liability in Saint Lucia?

Limited liability is commonly offered through companies, including International Business Companies (IBCs) and domestic companies such as private companies limited by shares.

What are the main characteristics of an IBC in Saint Lucia?

The main characteristics of an International Business Company (IBC) in Saint Lucia typically include:

  • Limited liability for its shareholders.
  • Exemption from local taxation.
  • Minimal reporting and disclosure requirements.
  • Ability to conduct international business activities.
  • Flexibility in ownership and management structures.
  • Strong confidentiality and privacy protections.

What are the tax benefits in Saint Lucia?

Legal entities are exempt from paying taxes on capital gains, dividends, and even value-added tax (VAT) in certain cases.

Biz Latin Hub can help you with company formation in St. Lucia

At Biz Latin Hub, our multilingual team of company formation specialists has extensive experience in assisting businesses domicile throughout Latin America and the Caribbean. 

We have offices in 17 countries in the region and trusted partners in many more. With our strong track record of providing comprehensive back-office services to foreign investors — including legal, accounting, and recruitment support — we are ready to help you achieve your business goals in Saint Lucia.

Reach out to us now for personalized assistance or a free quote or read more about market entry from our team and expert authors.

A BLH infogrpahic showing key services offered by the company
Biz Latin Hub can help you with Company Formation in Saint Lucia

The information provided here within should not be construed as formal guidance or advice. Please consult a professional for your specific situation. Information provided is for informative purposes only and may not capture all pertinent laws, standards, and best practices. The regulatory landscape is continually evolving; information mentioned may be outdated and/or could undergo changes. The interpretations presented are not official. Some sections are based on the interpretations or views of relevant authorities, but we cannot ensure that these perspectives will be supported in all professional settings.
Craig Dempsey
Craig Dempsey

Craig is a seasoned business professional in Latin America. He is the Managing Director and Co-Founder of the Biz Latin Hub Group that specializes in the provision market entry and back office services. Craig holds a degree in Mechanical Engineering, with honors and a Master's Degree in Project Management from the University of New South Wales. Craig is also an active board member on the Australian Colombian Business Council, and likewise also active with the Australian Latin American Business Council.

Craig is also a military veteran, having served in the Australian military on numerous overseas missions and also a former mining executive with experience in various overseas jurisdictions, including, Canada, Australia, Peru and Colombia.

Receive the latest news and advice about expanding your business globally
Subscribe to our newsletter to receive the latest business news and advice about entity formation, legal entity compliance, accounting, back office and fiscal requirements. Receive the latest news and advice about expanding your business globally.

This field is for validation purposes and should be left unchanged.