Belize, an English-speaking country in the heart of Central America, is a relative newcomer in the field of international financial services. Since attaining independence from Britain in 1981, Belize has been endeavouring to diversify its economy away from the agricultural sector.Belize, therefore, saw the international financial services sector as a window of opportunity where it could seek to achieve competitive advantage.

Belize Registration of International Trusts

Belize recently amended its Trusts Act to provide for compulsory registration of international (or offshore) trusts;

International Trusts in Belize Related legislation

Trusts (Amendment) Act 2007 (which came into force on 15th June 2007) and the International Trusts Regulations 2007.The law provides that all offshore trusts governed by Belize law must have a Trust Agent resident in Belize whose office would serve as the Office of the Trust.

Only limited information needs to be provided to the Trusts Registry, e.g., Name of the Trust, Date of Settlement of the Trust, Name of the Trustee and Name of the Trust Agent. All other information is kept by the Trust Agent. No confidential or private information needs to be disclosed to the Registry and it is not necessary that a copy of the Trust Deed be filed with the Registry.

The International Trusts Registry is not open to the public. It is a closed Registry.The confidentiality of a trust is fully protected.Further information on the registration of international trusts can be found in the Trusts (Amendment) Act 2007 (which came into force on 15th June 2007) and the International Trusts Regulations 2007.

Should you need to discuss your specific needs with one of our Consultants, to properly assist you, please CALL US NOW.To select one of our multilingual offices, click HERE for a list of our office contact details and request that a consultant calls you back.

Contact Us

Should you require additional information, request a quotation or clarify any related matter, please contact one of our Consultants who will be happy to assist with your enquiries.

Disclaimer

COI ´s services are subject to its Terms and Conditions.The information provided by COI is intended as informative material and should not be relied solely upon in decision-making, especially if it concerns international tax planning and financial structuring as these areas are subject to frequent changes, although its efforts to keep all information on its website regularly updated.

COI strongly recommends that each potential user of its services seek tax and legal advice before deciding on implementing a solution employing international financial structures. COI will not be liable for any damages, costs and expenses resulting from or incurred as a result of any action taken or omitted based upon any such information provided by COI.