Seychelles Yacht Registration

Registering a yacht under the Seychelles flag offers a wide range of advantages, making it a highly attractive option for both private owners and commercial operators. One of the most significant benefits is full tax exemption, as Seychelles imposes no corporate, income, or withholding taxes on registered vessels. Dividends paid by an International Business Company (IBC) that owns a yacht are also tax-free. This tax-friendly framework allows owners to maximize operational efficiency while keeping ownership structures private, since the identities of principals are not publicly disclosed.

Seychelles-flagged vessels enjoy global recognition and protection, benefiting from the country’s membership in both the United Nations and the Commonwealth. The registry is flexible, permitting vessels under 15 years of age to register, with some exceptions extending up to 25 years. Seychelles also recognizes major international classification societies, including those in France, the UK, Japan, the USA, Germany, and Canada, further strengthening its credibility on the global maritime stage.

Yacht registration is open to Seychelles citizens and locally registered companies, including International Business Companies (IBCs) and onshore entities. An IBC is often the preferred vehicle for yacht ownership, as it allows 100% foreign ownership, exemption from all business taxes on vessel operations, and freedom from work permit or social security obligations for non-resident personnel. Beyond yachts, an IBC can hold multiple assets, making it a flexible structure that can be set up quickly, often within just a few days.

The registration process itself is straightforward: it begins with the submission of an application, followed by the issuance of a Certificate of Registration and other statutory certificates once the vessel is formally registered. Certificates are renewed every five years, subject to compliance with international safety and security standards. Seychelles also provides ongoing support through vessel inspections, certification, and crew training, ensuring that registered yachts remain compliant with global regulations.

Choosing Seychelles as your flag state means more than just tax efficiency and confidentiality—it also grants access to international ports, recognition in global waters, and the backing of an internationally respected maritime jurisdiction. Whether you are a private yacht owner, commercial vessel operator, or investor, Seychelles provides the ideal framework for secure and efficient yacht ownership through an IBC.

Contact us today to learn more about setting up your IBC and registering your yacht under the Seychelles flag. Our specialists ensure a smooth, compliant, and confidential process, so you can enjoy your vessel with complete peace of mind.