Running a Seychelles IBC- What is The Cost Breakdown of Setting Up?

Learn about Seychelles IBC formation Cost Breakdown
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SCR Admin
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September 4, 2025
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Category :
Offshore

Running a Seychelles IBC- What is The Cost Breakdown of Setting Up?

Seychelles has become a go-to destination for setting up an International Business Company. Investors and entrepreneurs love it, not just for its stunning beaches. They love it because it offers powerful advantages to businesses worldwide. 

What was once a tropical paradise is now a thriving offshore financial hub. It has a smart and business friendly regulatory system. Seychelles makes it easy for international companies to operate smoothly and efficiently. 

The allure of a Seychelles IBC is undeniable. But, understanding the full spectrum of Seychelles IBC pricing is essential for effective planning and budgeting. This guide will walk you through every expense you can expect in 2025. Continue reading to know more about the offshore setup cost- 

What are the initial formation expenses?

The first step in establishing a Seychelles IBC is covering the initial formation costs. These typically include- government registration fees, registered agent services and the preparation of essential documents. 

1. Government registration fees 

Seychelles charges a modest $150 government fee for registering an IBC. This is regardless of your company’s authorised capital, paid-up capital or the number of shares. This rate is highly competitive compared to other offshore jurisdictions. 

 

2. Registered agent services 

You must appoint a local registered agent. This is a legal requirement for every Seychelles IBC. Agent fees vary depending on the provider and the level of service.

3. Document preparation and certification 

There are many agents that offer packages. These include notarisation and apostille of company documents for international use. Expect to pay extra for certified copies and legalisation. But these are often bundled in standard packages.

How to get a Seychelles IBC account up and running? 

The normal incorporation Seychelles IBC charge does not include opening a offshore bank account. There are further steps involved.

1. Bank account introduction fee

Many service providers charge a separate fee for introducing clients to banks. This fee starts at $900. It depends on the complexity of your structure and the bank’s requirements.

2. Minimum deposit 

Seychelles banks usually require a minimum deposit of $10,000 to open a corporate account. 

3. Account maintenance 

There will be a maintenance cost of about $15/account per year. Outgoing transfers are usually charged at $10 per transaction. There are extra costs that may be involved in the case of higher-value transfers.

4. Due diligence 

Banks will conduct thorough due diligence checks. You must provide- certified proof of identity, proof of address and sometimes a reference letter. 

What are the annual renewing government and agent fees? 

After the first year, your Seychelles IBC will incur annual renewal costs. 

1. Government renewal fee 

The government charges a flat $150 renewal fee per year. This is regardless of your company’s structure. 

2. Registered agent renewal 

Agent renewal fees start at $600- $900 per year for basic packages. It covers- agent services, custody of accounting records and compliance (KYC) reviews.

3. Premium package renewal 

Did you opt for a premium package with added services (corporate directorship, business administration, shareholder service)? Then, annual fees can rise to $799- $1,999 or more. 

What are the compliance-related Seychelles IBC pricing? 

Seychelles IBC must comply with international standards. This includes economic substance requirements for certain activities. 

1. Economic substance compliance

Is your IBC engaged in “relevant activities” (e.g., banking, insurance, fund management, intellectual property)? You must demonstrate economic substance in Seychelles. This means maintaining adequate staff/premises and expenditure in the jurisdiction. 

2. Cost for economic substance 

There is no official government fee for economic substance. But you must budget for local office space/staff or outsource these functions to a service provider. Expect to pay $2,000–$10,000+ annually. This depends on your business activities and the level of substance required. 

3. Compliance and KYC updates 

Most agents include basic compliance and KYC updates in their annual fees. However, complex cases or additional directors/shareholders may incur extra charges.

What are optional enhancements and their costs? 

Service providers offer a range of optional extras to tailor your Seychelles IBC to your needs.

1. Corporate directorship and shareholder services 

These services add an extra layer of compliance and privacy. Fees start at $500–$1,000 per year for basic packages. But can be higher if bundled with other services.

2. Business administration 

This includes local office address/handling correspondence and basic consulting. Expect to pay $500–$1,000+ per year.

3. Document preparation 

Custom drafting of- articles, minutes, powers of attorney, and notarisation/apostille services are available for additional fees. 

4. Bank account management 

Some providers offer full bank account management for an extra fee. 

What are the hidden and unforeseen costs to watch out for? 

The headline costs are clear. But there are many other costs that may be unknown to you.

1. Penalties for late filing 

If you miss your renewal of your IBC, it may attract penalties. This causes late charges and possible deregistering.

2. Reactivation of a bank account 

There can be reactivation fees if your account is not active. 

3. Compliance flags 

Unresolved compliance issues can lead to extra due diligence fees. Or it may even cause the account to be closed.

4. Change of agent or change of director fees 

Changing your registered agent or director incurs additional charges. 

How to budget wisely? 

Setting up a Seychelles IBC does not need to empty the wallet. Smart work and the right attitude can help you keep expenses to a minimum. The below are tested and tried ways that will make you spend less money and have good value for your money investment-

Tip How It Helps
Bundle Services Save by combining company formation/annual renewals and add-ons (e.g., nominee services) with a single provider.
Plan for Economic Substance Early Avoid the expense of rush compliance by pre-budgeting for reporting/operational requirements in advance if your IBC has related activities.
Negotiate Multi-Year Contracts Lock in lower fees with 2–3-year contracts with registered agents or corporate service providers.
Compare Banking Partners Optimize fees by researching- minimum deposits, transaction costs and remote account-opening ease before choosing a bank.

To conclude 

Creating and sustaining a Seychelles IBC in 2025 is easy and hassle-free. But it is accompanied by a set of Seychelles IBC pricing. You should know every cost and prepare yourself. This way, you can maximise your budget and be prepared for nothing.

Frequently asked questions

About how much does it cost to establish a Seychelles IBC in 2025?
How much are the annual renewal fees for a standard Seychelles IBC?
Are there any accounting fees or audits that are mandatory on a Seychelles IBC?
How much should I budget for economic substance compliance if my IBC is engaged in fund management?
Can I reduce costs by using a minimal registered-agent package without add-ons?