Tuvalu
Key entity, tax, banking, visa, and compliance guidance for foreign founders incorporating in Tuvalu.
Foreign Ownership Eligibility
Tuvalu welcomes 100% foreign-owned companies
Fully remote formation — you never need to set foot in the country.
- 100% foreign ownership permitted in most sectors
- Legal system: Common Law (English tradition)
- Primary registration authority: Tuvalu Registrar of Companies
- Registry website: https://www.tuvalugov.tv
- Tax authority: Tuvalu Revenue Office
- Corporate income tax (CIT): 30% - Source: CIT: 30% (Tuvalu). No GST.
- VAT / sales tax: 0%
- Estimated formation timeline: 14-30 days - Via Tuvalu Registry. Source: Tuvalu Government
- Annual compliance and renewal obligations apply
Ownership
100% Foreign OK
Formation
100% Remote
Tax at a glance
Tuvalu Tax Overview
30%
Corporate Income Tax (CIT)
CIT: 30% (Tuvalu). No GST.
0%
VAT / Sales Tax
CIT: 30% (Tuvalu). No GST.
Tuvalu Revenue Office
Tax Authority
https://www.tuvalugov.tv
Pros & cons
Advantages & Considerations
Key Advantages
100% foreign ownership permitted in most sectors
Legal framework: Common Law (English tradition)
Primary registry: Tuvalu Registrar of Companies
Tax rate: 30% CIT
Incorporated company has access to Tuvalu market
Considerations
Local professional guidance recommended for regulatory compliance
Banking KYC requirements can be extensive - allow time for account opening
Professional services market may be limited compared to major financial centres
Verify sector-specific restrictions before investing
Currency risk: AUD fluctuations may affect USD-denominated investments
Incorporation Process
The process is strictly digital. Each stage builds on the previous one.
Name reservation
Prepare incorporation documents
Submit registration application
Tax registration
Open corporate bank account
What you'll pay
Cost Architecture
Government Fees
Annual Ongoing
Professional Services
Government fees change frequently. Always verify current fee schedule at https://www.tuvalugov.tv before committing.
Still unsure about costs?
These are estimates — your actual cost depends on your structure
Every Tuvalu setup is different. A 15-minute call with one of our specialists will give you a personalised cost breakdown — completely free.
Fintech & Banking
Can non-residents open accounts without visiting? NO.
Banking options for non-resident founders in Tuvalu. Remote account opening availability varies by institution.
| Institution | Type | Ease for Non-Residents | Notes |
|---|---|---|---|
| National Bank of Tuvalu (NBT) | Traditional bank | Low (Visit Required) |
Regulatory requirements
Annual Compliance Matrix
| Requirement | Deadline | Details |
|---|---|---|
Annual company filing | Ongoing | File annual returns with Tuvalu Registrar of Companies to maintain good standing. |
Corporate income tax return | Ongoing | Submit annual CIT return to Tuvalu Revenue Office. Rate: 30%. |
VAT filing | Ongoing | VAT-registered businesses file periodically. Rate: 0%. Verify threshold with Tuvalu Revenue Office. |
Accounting records | Ongoing | Maintain statutory books per Common Law (English tradition) requirements. |
Beneficial ownership disclosure | Ongoing | Verify current UBO requirements in Tuvalu. |
Frequently Asked
Speak with a Tuvalu specialist
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