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Ajman Offshore Company Formation
Ajman Offshore companies are registered with the Ajman Free Zone (AFZ) in the Emirate of Ajman, United Arab Emirates. The AFZ, established in 1988, was granted autonomous status under Emiri Decree No. 3 of 1996 by the Ruler of Ajman, H.H. Sheikh Humaid Bin Rashid Al Nuami. As a modern registry, AFZ follows international standards and best practices adopted by other offshore jurisdictions worldwide
Key Features of Ajman Offshore Registry
Legal Structure
Ajman offshore companies are referred to as International Business Companies or offshore companies under applicable regulations They are designed specifically for international business activities and asset protection
Confidentiality
AFZ prioritizes the confidentiality of shareholders, keeping their identities strictly confidential in accordance with the law Information about shareholders and directors remains private, ensuring a high level of confidentiality for all parties involved
Ownership and Management
100% foreign ownership is permitted Requires at least one director and one shareholder, with a maximum of five directors allowed Corporate entities cannot serve as directors An individual can be both a shareholder and a director
Registration Process:
- The registration process is swift and cost-effective, typically taking 2 to 3 working days
- Physical presence of shareholders is not required for incorporation
Registered Agent and Office:
- Offshore companies must be set up through registered agents licensed by the Ajman Free Zone Authority
- A registered office address in the UAE is required, which can be the address of the registered agent
Benefits of Ajman Offshore Registry
- Tax Benefits:Ajman offshore companies enjoy a zero-tax environment, with no corporate taxes, income taxes, or VAT
- Asset Protection:Offers a structure for asset protection and estate planning
- Global Banking Access:Companies can open bank accounts both within the UAE and internationally
- Flexibility:Allows for various business activities, including international trade, brokerage, intellectual property holding, and consultancy
- No Minimum Capital:There is no minimum paid-up capital requirement
- Repatriation of Profits:100% repatriation of capital and profits is permitted
Restrictions and Considerations
- Ajman offshore companies cannot conduct business with onshore companies in the UAE or establish a branch in the UAE
- Certain activities are not permitted, including financial services, insurance, media, and aviation
- Companies must appoint a secretary to oversee administrative duties
- A maximum of three properties can be owned by the offshore company
The process of setting up an Ajman Offshore company involves several key steps:
Choose a Company Name
Select a unique business name that complies with Ajman Free Zone Authority (AFZA) regulations. The name must end with “Limited”
Prepare Required Documents
Gather the following documents:
- Passport copies of all shareholders
- Valid UAE visa or entry stamp page copies
- Proof of residence for each shareholder
- Personal profiles (CVs) of shareholders
- Original bank reference letters for shareholders
Appointing a Registered Agent
An official registered agent must be appointed, whose office address will serve as the Ajman Offshore Company’s address
Submit Application
The registered agent will submit the application form along with all required documents to AFZA
Sign Documents
Shareholders or authorized attorneys must be physically present to sign documents before AFZA executives
Company Registration
Once documents are signed and submitted, AFZA will process the application. Registration typically takes 1-2 working days
Receive Incorporation Documents
Upon approval, you will receive:
- Certificate of Incorporation
- Share Certificate
- Company Stamp
Opening a Bank Account
- After incorporation, you can proceed to open a corporate bank account with assistance from your registered agent
Additional Requirements
- Appoint at least two directors (corporate directors not allowed)
- Appointing a company secretary (can be one of the directors)
- Determine the capital structure (decided by shareholders)
It’s important to note that Ajman Offshore companies cannot conduct business within the UAE, and UAE residence visas cannot be obtained based on these companies. The entire process, from application to incorporation, typically takes about 3 working days if all documents are in order
Cost Estimate for JAFZA offshore company without a visa is approximately AED 8,500 (USD 2,350)
Alpha Equity MC team will support and assist you in registering a Ajman Offshore company in Ajman Free Zone quickly and efficiently.