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Cook Islands entities
A self-governing state in free association with New Zealand, best known for international trusts used in asset protection planning.
In shortCCYFX onboards Cook Islands international trusts, international companies and foundations. Cook Islands international trusts have a licensed trustee company, and CCYFX documents the settlor, the source of the settled assets and the beneficiaries.
An early home of the asset protection trust
The Cook Islands introduced its International Trusts Act in 1984 and is widely regarded as a leading jurisdiction for asset protection trusts.
A Cook Islands international trust must have a licensed trustee company. We work with these trustees to document the settlor, the source of the settled assets and the beneficiaries.
Common entities we onboard
International trust
A trust administered by a licensed Cook Islands trustee company.
International company
Often used to hold trust assets.
Foundation
A foundation vehicle for wealth structures.
Limited liability company
Sometimes used alongside an international trust.
What we ask Cook Islands entities to provide
These are in addition to identification for directors and beneficial owners. Certificates should generally have been issued within the last three to six months.
Trust
- Trust deed and any amendments
- Certificate of registration of the international trust
- Licensed trustee company details
- Letter of wishes, if available
Parties
- Settlor, with the source of the settled assets
- Protector, where appointed
- Beneficiaries or class of beneficiaries
- Trustee’s authorised signatories
Underlying companies
- Certificate of incorporation
- Registers of directors and members
- Ownership chart
- Purpose of the structure
This page is general information to help you prepare for onboarding. It is not legal or tax advice. Laws and registry practice in Cook Islands change, so please confirm current requirements with your corporate service provider or legal adviser.
Onboard your Cook Islands entity
Apply online in about ten minutes. We will reply with the documents your structure requires and an indicative timeline for onboarding.