Incorporating in New Zealand

Incorporating in New Zealand is a straightforward process, with few pitfalls. However it is advisable to be fully aware of the various company law and accounting requirements. Some points to consider when incorporating in New Zealand include:
1.	In general, New Zealand's business environment is open and competitive. New Zealand's legal, regulatory and accounting systems are also transparent and fair.
2.	Barriers to foreign investment are minimal when incorporating in New Zealand. There are no restrictions on the right to establish, own and operate business enterprises, aside from the requirement for Overseas Investment Office approval of foreign investments over NZ$50 million (US$34.4 million).
3.	The process of incorporating in New Zealand is governed by the Companies Act 1993.
4.	A New Zealand limited liability company (LLC) requires only one shareholder and at least one director. Investors incorporating in New Zealand should note that there is a public register of directors and shareholders.
5.	When incorporating in New Zealand, there are no restrictions on the flow of capital from or into New Zealand.
	The New Zealand Commerce Commission has the right to block a merger or takeover that would result in the new company gaining a dominant position in the market.
6.	Having completed incorporating in New Zealand, company accounts are subject to an annual audit and return.
7.	New Zealand is a member of the World Intellectual Property Organization, the Paris Convention for the Protection of Industrial Property, and the Berne Convention.
8.	The Commerce Commission administers the Commerce Amendment Act 2001 and governs restrictive trade practices. In general, when incorporating in New Zealand note that price fixing and contracts, arrangements or understandings that have the purpose or effect of substantially lessening competition in a market are prohibited, unless authorised by the Commerce Commission.
9.	There are no minimum paid up capital requirement when incorporating in New Zealand.
10.	Having completed incorporating in New Zealand, a resident company is subject to a corporation tax of 33% on income sourced in New Zealand and globally, whether income is sourced in New Zealand or internationally (see the Inland Revenue Service website for further information).
Contact Us
For more information on incorporating in New Zealand, email or telephone us at (+65) 6735 0120.
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