You can open a company in the Cook Islands by registering with the Financial Supervisory Commission, meeting director requirements, and fulfilling local compliance rules.
A company in Cook Islands offers advantages such as favorable tax rates, privacy protections, and strategic access to Pacific markets.
This guide covers:
- Cook Islands offshore company setup process
- Cook Islands company setup costs and fees
- Pros and cons of Cook Islands company
- Can I open a bank account in the Cook Islands for my company?
My contact details are hello@adamfayed.com and WhatsApp +44-7393-450-837 if you have any questions.
The information in this article is for general guidance only. It does not constitute financial, legal, or tax advice, and is not a recommendation or solicitation to invest. Some facts may have changed since the time of writing.
What are the major industries in the Cook Islands?
While the Cook Islands is known for tourism, the economy also benefits from other sectors, including:
- Tourism and hospitality – Hotels, resorts, and related services.
- Financial services – Offshore banking, trusts, and foundations.
- Pearl farming and fisheries – Export-driven marine industries.
- Agriculture – Root crops, fruits, and niche exports.
- Crafts and cultural products – Artisan goods for tourism markets.
Foreign entrepreneurs often focus on tourism, financial services, and niche export industries.
Setting up a company in the Cook Islands
To set up a company in the Cook Islands, you must first choose your business structure. Most foreign investors opt for an International Company (IC) under the International Companies Act, which offers tax exemptions for offshore income.
The process generally includes:
- Choosing a company name and checking its availability with the Registrar of International and Foreign Companies.
- Preparing incorporation documents, including the Memorandum and Articles of Association.
- Appointing directors (at least one; can be a non-resident).
- Registering the company and paying the relevant government fees.
- Opening a local or offshore bank account to manage company finances.
The entire process can be completed within a few days if all documentation is in order.
How much do you need to set up a company in Cook Islands?
Incorporating a company in the Cook Islands generally requires an initial outlay ranging from approximately USD 1,700 to USD 2,750. These figures include government registration fee, a registered agent, and a registered office for the first year.
Ongoing annual costs (renewal fees), including registered agent and office services, generally range between USD 1,700 to USD 2,600, depending on the provider.
Can I open a bank account for my company?
Yes. To open a bank account in the Cook Islands for your company, you must provide the company’s registration documents, proof of identity and address for all directors and shareholders, and meet anti-money laundering (AML) and know-your-customer (KYC) requirements.
The process typically involves both a compliance review by the bank and, in some cases, an in-person or video interview.
The Cook Islands banking sector is well-regarded for its strong confidentiality protections, which are backed by local laws that limit the disclosure of financial information to foreign authorities except under specific legal requests.
While banks here are open to working with offshore companies, they also apply rigorous due diligence to ensure regulatory compliance, particularly for businesses involved in cross-border transactions or asset protection structures.
Can a foreigner work in Cook Islands?
Yes, foreigners can work in the Cook Islands, but they need a valid work permit issued by the Ministry of Internal Affairs.
This is particularly relevant if you plan to hire overseas talent for the company you are establishing in the Cook Islands or if you intend to work for your own registered business there.
The key requirements include:
- A job offer from a Cook Islands-registered business.
- Proof that no local citizen is available for the role.
- Payment of applicable fees.
Work permits are typically valid for up to two years and may be renewed, making it feasible to maintain skilled foreign employees long term.
Who can own land in Cook Islands?
Only Cook Islands nationals can own land, as ownership is reserved for those with ancestral ties.
A company in the Cook Islands cannot directly own freehold land, but it can operate on leased land.
- Locals own land under customary tenure passed through families.
- Foreigners may only lease land for up to 60 years, with government approval.
- Leasehold agreements are the main option for foreign-owned companies needing property for business operations.
What is the corporate income tax rate in the Cook Islands?
For domestic companies operating within the Cook Islands, the corporate income tax rate is 20% on net profits.
However, International Companies that earn income outside the Cook Islands may qualify for full tax exemptions, making it attractive for offshore business operations.
Benefits and Challenges When Starting a Business in Cook Islands
Benefits
- Strong asset protection and privacy laws – The Cook Islands is known for its robust trust legislation that shields assets from foreign judgments.
- Political and economic stability – The jurisdiction enjoys a stable government and consistent economic policies, creating a predictable business environment.
- Attractive tax benefits for offshore operations – Offshore companies may be exempt from local taxes on income earned outside the Cook Islands.
- Access to international markets – The country’s favorable legal framework allows businesses to operate globally without heavy restrictions.
Challenges
- Limited direct ownership of land – Foreigners can generally only lease land, not own it outright, which may limit property-related ventures.
- Small domestic market size – Local demand is limited, so most businesses must focus on international operations.
- Regulatory compliance requirements – Offshore entities must meet due diligence, reporting, and registration rules to remain compliant.
Conclusion
Opening a company in the Cook Islands can offer strong asset protection, favorable tax treatment, and access to global markets.
While regulatory compliance and land ownership restrictions require careful planning, the jurisdiction’s stability, privacy laws, and offshore advantages make it an attractive option for international entrepreneurs seeking a secure and strategic business base.
FAQs
Is the Cook Islands a tax haven?
Yes. The Cook Islands is considered a low-tax jurisdiction, offering no capital gains tax, inheritance tax, or tax on offshore income.
Do I need to visit the Cook Islands to open a company?
No. You can usually open a company remotely in the Cook Islands through a registered local agent.
Can I hire foreign staff for my Cook Islands company?
Yes, but you must obtain work permits and prove no suitable local candidates are available.
How long does it take to register a company in Cook Islands?
The typical time frame is 1 to 3 weeks, depending on how quickly documentation is prepared and approvals are secured.
Pained by financial indecision?
Adam is an internationally recognised author on financial matters with over 830million answer views on Quora, a widely sold book on Amazon, and a contributor on Forbes.
