6 Best Countries to Open a Business with Zero Local Presence in 2026
Here's something surprising - you can register a UK company for just £12 and be up and running within 24 hours. This isn't some wild claim. It shows how much starting a business has changed in 2026.
The search for the best countries to open a business remotely is more significant than ever. This applies to both new entrepreneurs and business owners with 2-3 years of experience. Take Estonia - they've revolutionized the process with their 2-hour registration system.
Good news if you want to start a company without a physical office. We've done the homework and analyzed the most business-friendly countries that welcome foreign entrepreneurs without local presence requirements. Our research covers everything from setup costs to tax advantages. Let this piece guide you through picking the perfect jurisdiction for your remote venture.
Estonia: The Pioneer of Digital Business Residency
Estonia has been a trailblazer in borderless digital business with its e-Residency program since 2014. The country leads the world as the first to offer digital residency that lets entrepreneurs around the globe set up and run EU-based companies online.
Estonia's E-Residency Program Explained
The e-Residency program gives entrepreneurs a government-issued digital identity and access to the country's strong digital infrastructure. As of 2026, more than 130,000 e-residents have joined the program and created over 37,000 companies. Estonia’s digital ID is legally equivalent to handwritten signatures across the EU under eIDAS regulation, allowing founders to manage their company entirely online with full legal validity.
This lets you:
Prove your identity online securely
Sign documents digitally
Access Estonian public e-services
Run your business in the EU market
Setting Up an Estonian Company Remotely
The company formation process is quick and straightforward. Company registration costs €290 and is completed online in 15–30 minutes, without a notary or physical presence – a level of speed unmatched by most EU jurisdictions.
The country also helps businesses grow through its unique corporate structure. You won't pay any corporate tax when you put profits back into your company. This works great for startups that need to scale quickly.
Banking Options for Estonian E-Residents
Estonian e-resident companies can choose from three main banking options:
Fintech Providers in EEA: Recent surveys show 70% of e-resident companies use fintech solutions. These services include:
Online account opening
International payments
Multi-currency support
Payment gateway integration
Traditional Estonian Banks: About 25% of e-resident companies bank with Estonian institutions. All the same, these banks have tightened their requirements since 2017:
SEB and Swedbank charge due diligence fees between €300-€750
Companies with non-EU/EEA beneficial owners pay monthly fees from €50
You must show strong connections to Estonia
Banks in Other EEA Countries: Around 5% of e-resident companies choose banking services in other EEA countries. This became possible after 2019 when Estonia changed its commercial code to accept share capital contributions through any EEA credit institution.
While traditional banks apply stricter onboarding, Estonia does not require a local bank account, and most e-resident companies successfully operate using regulated EU fintech institutions.
Tax Implications for Zero-Presence Estonian Companies
Estonia's tax system for e-resident companies follows simple rules based on business location and activity. Companies that operate only outside Estonia pay taxes on foreign profits in those countries.
Here's what else you should know:
Companies pay tax only when distributing dividends
Estonia has double taxation agreements with more than 60 countries
Profits reinvested back into the business aren't taxed
You must file monthly VAT reports and annual compliance documents
Estonia operates a unique cash-flow corporate tax system: companies pay 0% corporate tax on retained and reinvested profits. Tax is triggered only when profits are distributed, making Estonia especially attractive for startups, SaaS companies, and holding structures focused on growth.
Your personal tax status doesn't change with e-Residency. Running your company from another country might create a permanent establishment there, which could mean extra tax obligations.
Estonia's digital infrastructure lets you handle all tax matters online, including:
VAT registration and reporting
Monthly salary tax declarations
Annual reports
Statistical reporting
Unlike offshore jurisdictions, Estonia offers a fully compliant EU company structure with 0% tax on retained earnings, legally binding digital signatures, and end-to-end online administration – without mandatory local directors, offices, or bank accounts.
Estonia has built an adaptable ecosystem for remote business through its e-Residency program. All compliance – VAT, payroll, annual reports – is handled fully online thanks to service providers like Enty. Entrepreneurs looking to set up a zero-presence company find Estonia appealing because of its digital accessibility, clear tax rules, and EU market access.
Singapore: Global Business Hub with Remote Options
Singapore has become a global business hub that lets entrepreneurs worldwide set up and run companies remotely. You can build a professional presence without visiting the country by using Grade-A business addresses and detailed virtual office solutions. Note that company can be incorporated remotely, but banking and pass renewals may require in-person steps.
Singapore's EntrePass and Remote Business Setup
The EntrePass program helps foreign entrepreneurs start venture-backed or innovative tech businesses in Singapore. Your business must meet at least one of these criteria to qualify:
Get funding of at least SGD 100,000 from qualified investors
Work with government-recognized incubators or accelerators
Own registered intellectual property
Work with Singapore's research institutes
You'll get a one-year pass to start. The pass can be renewed based on how well your business performs. This program also connects you to Singapore's buzzing tech startup community and gives you chances to network and raise funds.
Corporate Service Providers for Zero Presence
Singapore has boosted regulations for corporate service providers (CSPs) in 2024 and fully enforced in 2025–2026 to improve transparency and security. The new Corporate Service Providers Bill requires all CSPs to:
Register with the Accounting and Corporate Regulatory Authority (ACRA)
Follow anti-money laundering rules
Keep proper records for nominee directors
Report detailed information about beneficial ownership
CSPs help non-resident business owners with:
Mail handling and forwarding
Virtual office solutions in premium locations
Professional call management
Meeting rooms and coworking spaces
These services cost as little as USD 64 per month, making Singapore a great choice for remote business setup.
Singapore's Tax Advantages for International Businesses
Singapore's tax system gives great benefits to international companies. The main advantages are:
No tax on specific foreign-sourced income that meets the "subject to tax" rule in foreign jurisdictions
Tax agreements with more than 60 countries
Tax breaks for qualifying projects and activities
Companies doing high-value work can get:
Pioneer tax breaks with no tax for 5-15 years
Development and Expansion benefits with rates starting at 5%
Investment allowances up to 100% on qualifying capital spending
Wyoming, USA: America's Remote Business Haven
Wyoming, known as the "Equality State," has become a top choice for entrepreneurs who want to start a business without being physically present. The state's business-friendly climate and strong legal protections make it appealing to both U.S. and international business owners.
Wyoming LLC Benefits for Foreign Entrepreneurs
Wyoming's Limited Liability Company (LLC) structure gives foreign entrepreneurs several key advantages. The state doesn't require citizenship or residency to own a business. You can run your Wyoming LLC from anywhere in the world without traveling to the state.
Starting an LLC is quick and affordable. The cost to file a Wyoming LLC is $100, which covers the Articles of Organization filing fee. The Wyoming LLC Annual Report has a minimum fee of $60, calculated as $0.0002 per dollar of assets located in Wyoming. Reserving a business name in Wyoming costs $50 if you choose to do so prior to forming the LLC. These comparatively low costs help entrepreneurs start their business on a tight budget.
Wyoming stands out with its strong asset protection laws. The state's rules strengthen corporate veils that protect against creditors. Your personal assets stay protected from business debts as long as you follow the law.
Zero Physical Presence Requirements
Wyoming supports remote business operations through its flexible rules. You can run your company from anywhere without ever visiting the state. Your directors and shareholders can hold meetings anywhere globally.
Wyoming's virtual office solutions give you a professional business presence without a physical office. These services include:
Mail handling and forwarding
A prestigious business address
Professional call management
Access to meeting rooms and coworking spaces when needed
Virtual office packages start at $64 monthly depending on provider, making it easy to maintain a Wyoming presence.
Tax Advantages of Wyoming Incorporation
Wyoming's tax structure attracts many business owners. The state ranks #1 in business tax climate indices. Here's what makes it special:
No corporate income tax
No personal income tax
No inventory taxes
No franchise taxes
No occupation taxes
No value-added taxes
The state has a lower sales tax rate of 5.34%, while states like Ohio (7.17%), Alabama (9.24%), Arkansas (9.47%), and California (8.66%) charge more.
Corporations pay an annual fee based on their assets in the state. Most businesses pay only $62 yearly. These low fees and no state income taxes let companies put more money into growth.
Wyoming helps businesses grow through tax exemption programs:
Manufacturing Sales Tax Exemption: No sales and use tax on manufacturing machinery or equipment.
Sales Tax Exemption on Electricity Consumption in Manufacturing: Wyoming has the country's second-lowest electric rates, and manufacturing electricity use is tax-free.
Remote Banking and Payment Processing Options
Setting up banking for a remote LLC needs careful planning. Here are your main options:
Traditional U.S. Banks: Big banks like Bank of America and Wells Fargo work with Wyoming LLCs. They might have strict identity verification rules for non-residents.
Online-Only Banks: Small Business Bank and similar institutions let you open accounts remotely. They often provide free business checking and Visa debit cards. Note that availability depends on residency, ITIN/SSN, and compliance checks.
Fintech Solutions: Many LLC owners choose fintech providers that offer:
Fully online account opening
International payments
Multi-currency support
Integration with payment gateways
Payment processing options for Wyoming businesses include:
All major payment methods (cash, check, credit, debit, gift cards, chip cards, and digital wallets)
Processing on various devices (mobile phones, tablets, laptops, terminals, and point-of-sale systems)
Next-day deposits for most transactions
Remember that federal tax rules still apply. Your Wyoming LLC might need to file informational returns with the IRS, even without U.S. income.
Wyoming's business-friendly laws, tax benefits, and remote operation options help entrepreneurs build a strong U.S. presence without moving there. These features make Wyoming one of the best places to start a business with zero local presence in 2026.
United Kingdom: Remote-Friendly European Business Center
The UK attracts entrepreneurs worldwide with its simplified company formation process. Business owners can get a prestigious address starting from £10 monthly. This affordable solution and the country's resilient digital infrastructure make the UK perfect for remote business operations.
UK Limited Company Remote Formation Process
You can set up a UK company remotely in just 24 hours with minimal paperwork. The process includes:
Selecting a unique company name
Preparing the Memorandum and Articles of Association
Registering with Companies House for £12 online or £71 by post
Getting a certificate of incorporation
Non-residents can own and direct companies without restrictions. You need a UK registered office address, but virtual office services easily meet this requirement.
Virtual Office Services in the UK
UK virtual office solutions do more than provide an address. Premium providers start their complete packages at £29 annually. Services include:
A prestigious business address in prime locations
Mail handling and forwarding worldwide
Professional call answering services
Access to meeting rooms and workspace facilities
These services help you maintain a professional presence without physical infrastructure. Service providers handle phone calls, sort mail, and manage parcels from 9:00 a.m. to 5:00 p.m., Monday through Friday.
Banking Solutions for Non-Resident Directors
Non-resident directors need to think carefully about banking services. The UK offers several options:
Digital Banking Platforms
Wise Business: Multi-currency support with minimal fees
Revolut Business: Compatible with accounting software
Starling Bank: Immediate transaction notifications
Traditional Banks
HSBC: Complete banking solutions with global reach
Requires extensive documentation
Mandates in-person verification
Non-resident directors prefer fintech solutions because of easy onboarding and competitive features. These platforms typically offer:
Multi-currency accounts
Real exchange rates
No monthly fees for basic usage
Remote account opening capabilities
Annual Compliance for Remote UK Companies
UK companies must meet specific compliance requirements. Essential tasks include:
Filing annual financial reports with Companies House
Submitting confirmation statements to verify company information
Managing VAT registration and reporting when applicable
Maintaining proper financial records
Companies must register for Corporation Tax within three months of starting business activities. The corporate tax system works in tiers:
19% rate for profits under £50,000
25% rate for profits exceeding £50,000 (you may be entitled to ‘Marginal Relief’ if your profits were up to £250,000)
Running your company entirely from abroad might trigger tax obligations in your country of residence. This happens when you manage operations consistently from a specific foreign location, potentially creating a permanent establishment.
Many remote businesses use cloud-based accounting software that works with Making Tax Digital requirements. These platforms automate financial reporting, tax filing, and compliance procedures. This reduces errors and ensures timely submissions.
Dubai, UAE: Tax-Free Remote Business Jurisdiction
Dubai's free zones have transformed remote business operations and give entrepreneurs a tax-efficient gateway to global markets. The emirate features more than 40 multidisciplinary free zones that offer exceptional opportunities for digital commerce and international trade.
Dubai Free Zones for Digital Businesses
Dubai CommerCity stands as the first dedicated digital commerce free zone in the Middle East, Africa, and South Asia region. This purpose-built development spans 2.1 million square feet with a USD 1 billion investment and delivers:
Complete business setup and customs support
End-to-end logistics solutions with warehousing
Digital marketing services
Photo studios and call centers
E-commerce platform solutions
The free zone's strategic location near Dubai International Airport will give a quick delivery time for regional shipments. Dubai's free zones specialize in specific industry sectors and provide tailored services based on business needs.
Zero Corporate Tax Advantages
Companies in Dubai's free zones enjoy exceptional tax incentives. Free zone entities that meet qualifying criteria maintain a 0% corporate tax rate when they:
Maintain adequate substance in the free zone
Generate qualifying income
Comply with transfer pricing rules
Prepare audited IFRS financial statements
Qualifying free zone companies keep their first AED 375,000 (approximately 87,000 euros) tax-exempt. Income above this threshold faces a modest 9% tax rate. Dividend distributions stay free from withholding tax, which allows completely tax-free income under specific conditions.
Remote Company Management in Dubai
Dubai free zone companies have simplified their remote management processes. Virtual company licenses let entrepreneurs:
Operate in 13 economic sectors without physical presence
Own 100% of their business
Access the UAE market remotely
The original setup cost stays competitive at AED 850, while federal fees depend on activity and legal structure. Free zone companies don't require owners to live in the UAE. All the same, some free zones may require a local manager or signatory.
Banking for Non-Resident UAE Business Owners
Emirates NBD leads the banking sector for non-resident business owners with specialized startup accounts. Their services include:
Remote account management capabilities
Flexible financing solutions
International money transfer services
Online banking platforms
Corporate wallets offer non-resident entrepreneurs an alternative to traditional banking. These digital solutions provide:
International Bank Account Numbers (IBAN)
Global payment capabilities
Simplified invoice processing
Belize: Affordable Remote Business Jurisdiction
Belize has become a go-to spot for entrepreneurs who want an affordable place to run their remote business. This Central American nation gives you quick company setup, strong privacy protection, and modern digital banking. You'll find a perfect mix of budget-friendly options and business flexibility here.
Belize IBC Formation Process
The International Business Company (IBC) structure in Belize stands out because it's quick and easy to set up. You can start your Belize IBC in just one or two days, making it one of the fastest options worldwide. Business owners who need to launch quickly will find this speed particularly helpful.
Starting your IBC requires three simple steps:
Choose a unique company name
Prepare and submit required documents
Pay the registration fees
The fees in Belize are much lower than what you'd pay in places like the Cayman Islands or Guernsey. These savings apply to everything from reserving your company name to getting your Tax Identification Number (TIN).
A Belize IBC gives you lots of freedom in how you run your company. You only need one director and one shareholder - and yes, this can be the same person. The rules don't care where these people come from or live, so you can truly run your business from anywhere.
Budget-Friendly Remote Business Maintenance
Running a Belize IBC won't break the bank. The yearly costs are much lower than other offshore spots. You'll pay about USD 139.00 each year, which covers:
Government fees
Registered agent services
Local registered address provision
Belize IBCs can enjoy low tax liability, but this may depend on meeting economic substance requirements under international tax standards. Companies must maintain real economic activity (e.g., decision-making, offices, staff) to benefit from preferential tax treatment.
Starting capital requirements don't exist here. While it's smart to have some money to begin with, there's no mandatory minimum. This flexibility helps new businesses and small startups get going.
Privacy Benefits for International Entrepreneurs
Privacy protection is a big reason why international entrepreneurs choose Belize. The country's strict confidentiality laws keep your business details and financial activities safe.
Your privacy is protected through:
No public access to director and shareholder information
Private registers that keep information confidential
Nominee services available for extra privacy
Belize has historically maintained confidentiality, but companies must comply with modern international AML/KYC rules, non-compliance carries legal penalties; and beneficial ownership information may be available to authorities under international transparency standards.
Digital Banking Solutions for Belize Companies
The banking system in Belize has evolved to serve remote businesses better. While traditional banks still operate, digital options have become popular with international entrepreneurs.
Belize IBC owners can choose from:
Local Belizean Banks: These offer reliable offshore banking in major currencies. They might ask more from non-resident account holders.
International Banks: Some IBCs use banks in other countries, thanks to Belize's flexible rules.
Fintech Solutions: Modern banking providers offer:
Online account opening
International payments
Multiple currency support
Payment gateway connections
These digital options solve common offshore banking headaches. Some fintech platforms let you open accounts with less money upfront than traditional banks.
Think about these points when picking your bank:
Account opening rules
Transaction costs
Currency exchange rates
Business operation fit
Belize offers good banking choices, but you need to be careful. Make sure your bank follows both Belizean and international rules to keep your business safe. Also, remote account opening may be restricted and typically requires robust KYC verification or local presence.
In a nutshell, Belize gives entrepreneurs an affordable, private, and digital-friendly offshore option. Quick IBC setup, low maintenance costs, strong privacy protection, and modern banking make it perfect for remote businesses. Just remember to check with legal and financial experts to stay compliant with all regulations.
Conclusion
Different jurisdictions give entrepreneurs unique benefits when they want to run businesses without a physical office. Estonia leads the pack with its innovative e-Residency program that offers zero tax on reinvested profits. Singapore's virtual office solutions and prime location make it an attractive choice. Wyoming gives strong asset protection and low taxes, while UK businesses can start for just £12.
Dubai's free zones create tax advantages through special digital commerce areas. The Cayman Islands shine with their advanced e-KYC systems and tax neutrality. Belize draws entrepreneurs with its low setup costs and privacy protection laws.
The best choice for your business depends on several key factors:
Setup and maintenance costs
Tax implications
Banking accessibility
Digital infrastructure
Compliance requirements
These regions keep updating their systems to help remote businesses grow, and 2026 looks perfect for digital entrepreneurs. You can start your Estonian company quickly with Enty! The optimized and fully digitalized legal processes in Estonia let you build and run successful businesses from any location in the world. Outside of starting a company, Enty can handle the accounting and help you manage a company with ease, allowing you to focus on your business growth.
