Cayman exempted company cost.
The Cayman exempted company is the institutional default for VC/PE-backed holding companies and fund vehicles. It is more expensive than BVI but expected by global LPs. Here is the complete 2026 Cayman exempted-company cost.
What you actually pay, line by line.
| Item | Amount | Note |
|---|---|---|
| Cayman government registration | USD 854 | One-time + annual |
| Registered office & agent | USD 1,200 | Per year |
| Legal & corporate-services fees | USD 2,500 – 4,000 | Year 1 |
| ArxSetup professional fee | USD 7,500 | Structuring, KYC, apostille pack |
| 20-year tax-exemption undertaking (optional) | USD 1,800 – 2,500 | One-time |
| Year-1 all-in | from USD 10,500 | |
| Year-2 onwards | from USD 7,500 | Scales with authorised share capital |
Government fees are pass-through and may be revised by the regulator without notice. AED/USD conversions are indicative. ArxSetup professional fees are fixed and quoted in writing before engagement. Figures current May 2026.
Reviewed by qualified counsel within ArxSetup and our affiliated practices, Neo Legal (UAE) and Cornwalls (Australia). Figures verified against primary regulator sources. Last reviewed: May 2026. Est. 2021 · DDA Licence 107229 · direct registry filing partner. How we review →
Common questions.
The questions clients ask most before committing. Current to 2026, reviewed by counsel.
How much does a Cayman exempted company cost in 2026?
From USD 10,500 all-in for year one — government registration (USD 854), registered office and agent (USD 1,200), legal fees, plus the ArxSetup professional fee. Annual renewals are from USD 7,500 depending on authorised share capital.
Why is Cayman more expensive than BVI?
Higher government fees (scaled to share capital), mandatory annual return filings, premium service-provider rates, and the CIMA-regulated fund ecosystem make Cayman 50–70% more expensive than BVI over five years.
Is a Cayman exempted company tax-free?
Yes — zero corporate, income, capital-gains and withholding tax. An exempted company can apply for a 20-year written tax-exemption undertaking for a one-time USD 1,800–2,500.
How long does Cayman incorporation take?
3–5 business days standard; CIMA express registers in 1–2 business days for an additional government fee of about USD 988.
Why do VCs require Cayman?
Mature case law, Delaware-style flexibility, no participation thresholds for preferred stock, CIMA fund regime, and universal LP familiarity make it the default for Series A and above.
This page is general information, reviewed May 2026 — not legal, tax or immigration advice, and it does not create a client relationship. Advice specific to your circumstances is provided only under a signed engagement letter. Government fees are set by the relevant authority and may change without notice. Where local registered agents are required, we coordinate with licensed partners and disclose their role in writing.