Many people are considering starting a business overseas or expanding their domestic operations to international shores. If this is the case, there are several reasons to consider incorporating in Anguilla.
In addition to offering temperate climes and a beautiful, tropical setting, this Caribbean island offers favorable tax incentives for businesses that incorporate there. However, perhaps Anguilla’s most attractive feature is the ACORN system that gives you access to these tax advantages within 24 hrs.
What is ACORN?
ACORN stands for Anguilla Commercial Online Registration Network. It is an online system designed to facilitate the process of incorporating in Anguilla, allowing for the formation of business entities around the clock and from anywhere in the world.
How Does it Work?
ACORN provides a fast and efficient means of incorporating in Anguilla. Although businesses should always proceed under the advice and supervision of trusted attorneys, a qualified offshore banking and trust establishment, and perhaps overseas agents familiar with the ins and outs of doing business in Anguilla, the ACORN platform is the most expedient way to create and/or form LLCs, limited partnerships, and other types of corporations.
Once you gain access to the system, all you have to do to form your business entity in Anguilla is sign up through the website, select your company type, and proceed to fill in all applicable information through online forms. Once you’re finished and you’ve paid any associated registration fees, you’ll be issued a certificate, articles of registration and your company will be entered instantaneously into the ACORN database. Afterwards, you can access ACORN resources including company name searches, certificates of Good Standing and information on legislation etc.
Who Can Use ACORN?
There are two ways to gain access to the ACORN system:
- As a licensed Company Manager or as a licensed Trust Company in Anguilla.
- As an Overseas Agent to one of the existing local Registered Agents.
How to Register As a Company Manager or Trust Company
The registration for Company Managers and Trust companies are guided by legislation see link to Financial Services legislation here.
Both Company Managers and Trusts require the submission of an application to the Director of Financial Services for approval. For additional information, interested persons and businesses should contact the Anguilla Financial Services Commission using this site.
How to Become an Overseas Agent
ACORN allows businesses located overseas to have a virtual presence in Anguilla. As an Overseas Agent you can serve your clients needs directly with the Registry.
To become and Overseas Agent:
You must first contact a licensed Company Manager or Trust Company and establish a commercial agency agreement, as this will satisfy the requirement for a registered office in Anguilla.
You will need to apply to the Anguilla Financial Services Commission (AFSC) for approval and authorization to use the ACORN system. This is done by means of a simple application which can be downloaded here. (*$250.00 USD)
Once you have completed all the initial documents First Anguilla Trust Company Limited can help progress the application on your behalf.
It is important to note that the application form should be submitted to the Financial Services Commission through the locally based Company Manager or Trust Company that you wish to work with. Once all application and registration fees are satisfied you will be granted access to a full range of company registry services 24 hours a day, 365 days a year.
For More Information
The ACORN system is merely a platform that makes it easier and more expedient for businesses like yours to benefit from advantageous tax incentives and reach your goals of operating in Anguilla faster than ever.
If you would like more information on the ACORN system, Company Managers or working with First Anguilla Trust Company Limited as an Overseas Agent we are more than happy to answer any questions you may have.