Home > Offshore Company > How to open an offshore bank account

How to open an Offshore Bank Account

In This Article hide

Undoubtedly, opening an offshore bank account isn’t a walk in the park; it comes with high financial sophistication. You’ll have to research the different requirements for each offshore bank and the specifics applicable to your situation.

Yet, some people have managed to open these accounts with ease. The key is having the correct information from the onset or working with an expert in the field. After collecting the necessary documents and funds, you can remotely open an offshore account in either of the two. Only in rare cases do some private banks request a face-to-face Skype call.

Cost of Opening An Offshore Bank Account

The cost of opening an offshore bank account in can vary depending on several factors, such as the bank you choose, the type of account you want to open, and any additional services or features you require.

For instance, in Mauritius, some banks require an initial deposit of around USD 5,000 to USD 10,000 for a personal account, while others may have higher minimum deposit requirements. For instance, Bank One in Port Louis requires a minimum monthly balance of USD 25,000.

Some banks may also charge an account opening fee ranging from USD 100 to USD 500. Additionally, ongoing maintenance and transaction fees may be associated with the account. For instance, in Bank One, you’ll pay USD 25 monthly fees if your account balance is less than the minimum amount.

In Seychelles, the requirements and fees for opening an offshore bank account can also vary depending on the bank. Some banks may require an initial deposit of around USD 1,000 to USD 10,000 for a personal account, while others may have higher minimum deposit requirements.

Some banks may also charge an account opening fee, which can range from USD 100 to USD 500, and there may be ongoing maintenance fees and transaction fees associated with the account.

The requirements for opening a Seychelles bank account closely mirror Mauritius’ requirements. For instance, you’ll be required to make a minimum deposit of $10,000, completed within four weeks of setting up your bank account. However, some banks may require a minimum deposit of up to $100,000.

For corporate bank accounts, your minimum balance is set at $10,000. You’re also required to pay periodic or monthly fees as well as minor fees associated with transfers and money transactions.

Withdrawing Funds from an Offshore Bank Account

After opening a bank account, you’ll be given a debit card just as your domestic banks do. This should allow you to access your money anywhere debit cards are accepted. Nevertheless, debit card transactions may come at a higher price than expected because of commissions.

As with deposits, a bank wire transfer is the quickest and most convenient option. Thus, you can always go with the online banking option.

Alternatively, you could use an offshore and a domestic bank account. This allows for the transfer of larger sums of money from an offshore account to a domestic bank account remotely.

Electronic wire transfers from offshore to domestic accounts are currently some of the safest and most secure means of transfer, considering the technological innovations and advancements witnessed in the banking sector of the two countries.

Starting an Offshore Bank

While this isn’t necessary, opening a bank account overseas is easiest in person at the financial institution in the country of destination. In fact, a sizable portion of offshore financial institutions in Asia, Europe, and Central America won’t open new accounts for clients who can’t physically be present.

Being physically present develops confidence and gives the client and the bank greater insight and assurance.

Nonetheless, with the current technological developments, you can open offshore accounts remotely. Besides, most domestic banks in these countries allow customers to open offshore bank accounts in major currencies (such as the USD, GBP, and EUR).

Thus, you have the option of opening an account:

In person at a bank in the nation of your choice;
Through account-opening services; or
Entrusting this responsibility to an offshore service provider (OSP).

It is worth noting that when working with an OSP, opening an offshore bank account in a foreign country is much less of a hassle. The OSP will perform the initial round of Due Diligence and collect the necessary paperwork the bank needs to verify your identity before opening an offshore bank account.

However, if you choose to do it alone, you’ll follow the following steps:

Choosing the Right Bank

Choosing the right bank is essential, especially if you’re looking to run an offshore company. In such cases, your business operations should dictate the type of bank account you open; that’s why working with a consultant is essential when establishing an offshore company.

Regardless of the end goal for which you are incorporating and creating an account, you must be aware of several essential elements before submitting your application.

Other essentials for offshore bank accounts

To open an offshore account in a foreign bank, you must meet the same criteria as you would with a domestic financial institution; both the bare minimum and your full name and address before you can open an account. Paperwork needed to establish an offshore bank account includes:

Certified identification document (Passport or ID)
An initial deposit
Certified evidence of physical address
Income verification

The legitimacy of documents is very important in offshore banking. So, before sending the above documents, it is best to ask for them to be apostilled. This type of paperwork is typically available in government offices.

It is important to note that while offshore banking has become increasingly common, it has also been linked to illegal activities, including evading taxes and money laundering. Although creating an offshore account in a foreign bank is identical to opening one in your native country, offshore banks must follow processes, legal requirements, or risk liability.

Offshore Business Bank Account

Most people ask that “can I open an offshore bank account without having to travel to the destination country?” The answer is yes. Most overseas companies and people in business have access to the banking services offered in foreign countries. Nonetheless, it is vital to consider the constraints imposed by the countries’ financial institutions. This was done primarily to limit the risk of being pulled into unlawful activities, including money laundering or the funding of terrorist groups.

When opening a company banking account, you must identify the nature of your business activity. For instance, your application to open an offshore account in Mauritius will be denied if your company deals in firearms, tobacco, pharmaceuticals, woodworking, business for adults, mining, chemicals, diamonds, furs, online dating, bitcoins, virtual currency, gambling, online casino, internet service providers, buying and selling derivatives/options/hedging/FOREX, or online trading.

Opening Conditions and Service Arrangements

The minimum opening deposit for a corporate account in Mauritius is US$5,000 (or its foreign currency equivalent), while in Seychelles, it is around US$10,000. You can make a deposit in at least either of your accounts if you have multiple accounts. If you make the deposit within the allotted time, your account will be open without further notification.

In contrast to Seychelles, the bank in Mauritius has implemented video communication to protect the safety and convenience of its customers. As a result, the following scenarios will necessitate a video conference between you and a bank employee:

Prior to creating the account;
When it receives your order for both internal and external money transfers:
Upon the initial transaction;
For payments in excess of $50,000;
For obtaining clarification on business operations or document confirmation in unusual circumstances; for any suspicious amount or random confirmation of any transaction, irrespective of amount.
Changes or additions to the contact details;
Activation of debit card functionality;
The first debit card activity with an invalid PIN; and
Activation of Internet banking services;

Required Documents for Opening a Business Bank Account

Apart from the account opening forms, all documents forwarded to the bank (such as electronic copies) must be appropriately certified as authentic copies of the originals. Certification must be completed in English or French, or be supported by an English or French version validated by an independent, licensed translator.

The following documents are necessary to open a corporate account:

Certificate of Incorporation;
Certificate of Current Status if the business was formed more than one year ago;
Memorandum and Articles of Association;
Registration of directors and founders (with a share of 20% or more); Passport/identity badge of all authorized signatories, executive officers, shareholders (with a share of 20% or more), and UBO;
Proof of residence not more than six months old for all authorized signatories, executives, shareholders (with a share of 20% or more), and UBO;
Company’s organogram (if any);
Certified business plan for a company;
Global enterprise license 1 or 2 (if appropriate);
Comprehensive information (a curriculum vitae) on the beneficial owners owner/shareholder, which includes business information.

Corporate Account Opening Process

While opening a corporate account in some foreign countries varies from bank to bank, you may expect the following when working with an OSP.

To open a business bank account, the OSP will send your request to the bank of your choice.
After that, you will be required to pay a fee which starts at $5,000 for the bank account opening service. The following payment options are available: bank transfer, WebMoney, PayPal, and Western Union.
The bank will begin processing the required paperwork for creating an account as soon as the bank receives your money.
Note that the bank will only review applications submitted by the applicant’s authorized representatives. After applying, the agent will be informed of the account opening request’s progress. In addition, a list of additional documents will be transmitted via the representative. After submitting copies of the required documents, you must return the originals within two weeks after account establishment.
If a foreign corporation applies to creating a corporate account, the bank can open the account using scanned certified/notarized copies delivered through email. You must courier back the original documents to the bank.

Account Verification Processes

Phase 1: You’ll need to fill out a form detailing your company and the type of transactions the bank will handle if you want this to go through. A video conference will be scheduled after prior approval.

Phase 2: Video call (through Skype, WhatsApp, Viber, Zoom, WeChat, or Botim). After confirming your identity, the bank will request that you deliver the required documents through courier.

Phase 3: If the request is granted, the next step is to transfer the account opening cost to the bank. The amount is around USD 100. Your OSP will supply you with the necessary bank information for this transfer. Once the bank accepts your payment, you will be given your account information.

Selecting the Top Offshore Bank through Research, Fact Checking, and Verification

To safeguard the safety and security of your funds, it is essential to undertake exhaustive research, fact-checking, and confirmation before selecting an offshore bank. You should evaluate the offshore reputation, services and products, fees and commissions, security and confidentiality, and accessibility.

Reputation

Choosing an offshore bank with an excellent reputation for dependability, security, and customer service is essential. Hence, it would help if you investigated the bank’s past and current events and customer feedback. We advise concentrating on its financial health, stability, and regulatory conformity. Check if a recognized government body insures the institution and has a strong existence in your preferred country.

Offerings & Services

Before applying to open an offshore account, you should investigate the bank’s products and services. This will assist you in making sure the financial institution fulfils your particular requirements. Certain offshore banks specialize in particular areas, such as capital or wealth management, while others provide a broader selection of financial services and products.

Remember to carefully read and comprehend the bank’s accounts and services’ terms and conditions. In addition, confirming the offshore bank’s qualifications, such as its registration and license, with the necessary regulatory agencies is crucial.

Fees and Commissions

It is essential to examine fees and commissions levied by various banks for offshore banking services, as they might be costly. Seek more competitive and straightforward pricing with no possibility of hidden fees.

Security and Privacy

Use the service of an offshore financial institution that cares about your security and privacy. Choose offshore bank accounts that give additional safety client and asset information while adhering to all applicable laws and regulations.

Accessibility

You must ensure access to the account and other financial services around-the-clock when applying. Offshore bank workers who speak your language may improve your customer experience.

Ultimately, selecting the best offshore bank demands extensive research, due diligence, and a comprehensive grasp of your financial needs and objectives.

It Is Legal to Set up an Account Offshore

It is very accurate that some people use offshore banking services to evade tax, launder money, or carry out illegal businesses, among other things. These are criminals. Do they make the entire offshore banking system illegal — the answer is no — it is perfectly legal. Unfortunately, a lot of individuals, including some global organizations, are totally against the system — they want it scrapped from the business world altogether.

For instance, in the year 2016/2017, anti-corruption institutions started the Open Ownership campaign, which was aimed at revealing the secrets of the offshore business world. They called for total scrutiny of everyone involved. Such moves could lead to too much openness, which means that the government might take over control of your money or wealth, and it is not a good idea.

To avoid such complications, make sure that you have set your offshore banking in the right way. If you do not understand the terms of the process itself, avoid DIY — a reputable International corporation services provider can help you, and everything will be completed seamlessly. It will definitely cost you some money to enjoy these services, but if you think about the benefits you get, and it will be all worth it.

Can You Open an Offshore Bank Account Online?

If it were a must for everyone to travel to another country to open a bank account, then only a few would ever open these accounts, especially the rich. Therefore, if you are wondering whether you can open a foreign bank account online, the answer is yes. However, you need to understand all the requirements as detailed above for both personal and corporate accounts.

Once you get hold of all the documents required, you will also need to fill different application forms as directed by your offshore bank of choice. You will either fill them directly from the online portal on their website or download the form, fill-in the details, and send them through an email. How you submit the forms will be specified by your offshore bank.

As for other documents such as notarized passports, references, proof of income, and company documents, you will need to use a courier for safe delivery to the bank. Once the bank is satisfied and the account is opened, you will receive your ATM card through a courier to the physical address you provided. From there, you can continue with your online banking transactions, which include wiring deposits and withdrawals.