06. What are the business registration considerations in the Maldives?

Foreigners can conduct business in the Maldives in the form of a company or partnership.

Business registration can be either by (a) re-registration in the Maldives, effectively operating as a local branch in the Maldives, (b) incorporating a subsidiary entity in the Maldives or (c) acquiring shares of a locally incorporated company. 

A private limited company incorporated in the Maldives must have:

  • minimum one shareholder – subject to sector specific shareholding requirements under the Foreign Investment Laws;
  • at least one board director who is resident in the Maldives (i.e. a Resident Director); 
  • a tax responsible person; and
  • a local registered address.
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