Nevis trusts are commonly used for asset protection, providing a strong legal barrier against creditors and lawsuits, making them ideal for safeguarding wealth. They are also popular for estate and succession planning, allowing for the private and orderly transfer of assets across generations without being subject to forced heirship laws. Many individuals use Nevis trusts to preserve family wealth from risks like divorce or mismanagement, while benefiting from the jurisdiction’s high level of confidentiality. Additionally, these trusts are often employed in pre-migration planning to protect assets from future tax exposure or political risks. They can also serve philanthropic purposes or act as holding structures for business interests and investments, offering flexibility and control within a secure legal framework.
$10,000
Nevis is a leading trust jurisdiction known for its strong anti-creditor legislation, including a requirement for creditors to post a USD 100,000 bond before initiating legal action against international trusts - an effective deterrent against frivolous claims.
- Registered and operational Asset Protection Trust
- Complete application process handled on your behalf
- Due diligence checks conducted as part of the service
- Drafting of all required country compliant trust documents such as the trust deed
- Coverage of all third-party (Trust related) costs, including first-year trustee and registration fees with the appropriate government body
- Add an offshore bank account for $1000
Nevis prioritizes confidentiality and privacy for beneficial owners, making it a highly attractive jurisdiction for international trust structuring. Similar to the Cook Islands, the Nevis International Exempt Trust provides a compelling solution for asset protection and jurisdictional diversification.
The trust benefits from strong protective legislation, including barriers to creditor claims and limited public disclosure.
Establishing a Nevis trust involves meeting certain compliance requirements, such as providing professional and banking reference letters, which reinforce the integrity and due diligence standards of the jurisdiction.
The Benefits of a Nevis Trust
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Comprehensive Asset Protection: Assets transferred into a Nevis trust are protected from the date of settlement, whether before or after a creditor’s claim arises. This ensures long-term security and peace of mind for the settlor.
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Creditor Deterrence: Creditors must deposit a USD 100,000 bond with the Nevis High Court before initiating any legal action, significantly reducing the likelihood of frivolous or opportunistic claims.
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Strict Fraudulent Transfer Standard: To challenge a transfer into the trust, a creditor must prove beyond reasonable doubt that the settlor specifically intended to defraud them. This high burden of proof provides a strong legal shield.
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Non-Recognition of Foreign Judgments: Nevis courts do not recognize or enforce foreign judgments that conflict with local trust laws. Any claims must be re-litigated within Nevis, under its own legal framework.
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Freedom from Forced Heirship Rules: Nevis trusts are not subject to forced heirship laws from other jurisdictions. The settlor maintains full control over how assets are distributed, regardless of their or the beneficiaries’ country of residence.
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Unlimited Duration: Nevis trusts can exist indefinitely, making them suitable for dynastic planning, multigenerational wealth preservation, and long-term succession strategies.
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Strong Confidentiality Protections: Trust information is protected under Nevis law and cannot be disclosed to third parties without proper legal authority or consent, preserving privacy for all parties involved.
- Enhanced Control Through LLC Integration: A Nevis trust can own an LLC, with the settlor appointed as manager of the LLC. This structure allows the settlor to retain day-to-day control over assets held through the LLC, without compromising the legal protections or asset separation provided by the trust.
Common Uses
About Nevis
Nevis is a small island in the Eastern Caribbean, forming part of the Federation of Saint Kitts and Nevis. It is known for its political independence, stable government, and adherence to English common law. Despite its size, Nevis operates with a high degree of autonomy and has developed a sophisticated financial services sector that caters to international clients. The local economy benefits from a combination of tourism, agriculture, and offshore services, with the financial sector playing a key role in foreign investment and government revenue. Nevis has a reputation for being cooperative but firm on matters of compliance, maintaining a balance between client privacy and international regulatory standards. Its legal infrastructure is well-established, and the island has positioned itself as a reliable, business-friendly jurisdiction with a straightforward administrative process and an efficient, modern corporate registry.
What is a Nevis Trust?
A Nevis Trust is a type of offshore asset protection trust established under the Nevis International Exempt Trust Ordinance, one of the most protective legal frameworks in the world. Designed for individuals looking to protect wealth, minimize risk, and plan for succession, a Nevis Trust separates legal ownership from beneficial interest, placing your assets under the care of a licensed trustee, outside the reach of foreign judgments or creditors.
Cook Islands Trust vs Nevis Trust
When choosing between a Cook Islands Trust and a Nevis Trust, it’s important to know that both jurisdictions offer world-class asset protection with several key differences.
Bond Requirement: Nevis requires a $100,000 USD bond before a creditor can bring a claim, whereas the Cook Islands does not have such a bond requirement.
Document Requirements: Nevis requires reference letters, the Cook Islands does not.
Proximity to the U.S.: Nevis is located in the Caribbean, offering closer and more convenient access for U.S. clients, while the Cook Islands, situated in the remote South Pacific, provides greater geographic insulation.
Creditor Time Limits: Nevis gives creditors two years from the date of asset transfer to file a claim, while the Cook Islands allows one to two years, whichever is later.
Shared Protections: Both trusts require claims to be proven beyond a reasonable doubt, do not recognize foreign judgments, and offer strong legal frameworks for long-term protection.
Ultimately, both trusts provide exceptional protection, and your choice will depend on your preferences for cost, convenience, and geographic strategy.
What Makes A Nevis Trust so Protective?
A Nevis Trust is reinforced by asset protection statutes specifically designed to shield your wealth from external threats like lawsuits, creditors, and foreign judgments.
- Two-Year Statute of Limitations: Creditors must file claims within two years of the trust’s creation or asset transfer—whichever is later—or they lose the right to challenge.
- High Legal Standard: Plaintiffs must prove fraudulent intent beyond a reasonable doubt, the highest standard in civil litigation worldwide.
- Bond Requirement: Foreign creditors must post a $100,000 cash bond with the Nevis High Court before bringing a case—effectively deterring weak or speculative claims.
- No Foreign Judgment Enforcement: Nevis does not recognize foreign court rulings; new legal action must be started locally under Nevis law.
- Strong Discretionary Terms: Trustees have full discretion over distributions, which means beneficiaries have no enforceable rights—making it nearly impossible for creditors to claim trust assets.
What Can a Nevis Trust Protect?
A Nevis Trust can protect a wide variety of assets, including investment portfolios, U.S. or international real estate, cash and brokerage accounts, intellectual property, business ownership, and digital assets like cryptocurrency. Importantly, your assets do not need to be located in Nevis to benefit from its strong legal framework.
You can hold cash in U.S. bank accounts, invest through platforms in Switzerland or Singapore, maintain U.S. real estate, or store crypto in digital wallets while still enjoying the legal protections provided by Nevis trust law. These laws act as a shield against foreign judgments, creditor claims, and legal threats.
With its geographic proximity to the United States, Nevis offers a convenient time zone and access window for U.S.-based clients, while still delivering powerful offshore protection. It is an ideal choice for those seeking asset security, legal insulation, and administrative convenience without the need to move assets offshore physically.
Financial Assets
- Cash and bank accounts
- Investment portfolios
- Retirement accounts (certain types)
- Securities and bonds
- Cryptocurrency holdings
- Foreign currency accounts
Business Interests
- Company shares
- Partnership interests
- Business assets
- Intellectual property
- Licensing rights
- Future income streams
Physical Assets
- Real estate (through holding structures)
- Precious metals
- Investment-grade collectibles
- High-value personal property
- Commercial equipment
- Rental properties
Investment Holdings
- Mutual funds
- Private equity investments
- Hedge fund positions
- International investments
- Trading accounts
- Managed portfolios
How to Set Up a Nevis Trust?
Setting up a Nevis Trust with us is straightforward and secure. Start by booking a consultation or sending us a message to discuss your protection goals. Once we determine the best structure for your needs, you’ll complete our secure onboarding form and submit the necessary documentation. Our team then coordinates with licensed Nevis trustees to complete due diligence, compliance checks, and trust registration. Once the trust is formally established, you’ll receive full documentation and ongoing access to your dedicated trustee team for support and administration.
Establishing Your Offshore Trust
Essential Documentation: We begin by collecting key documents to satisfy Nevis compliance requirements. You’ll need to provide valid identification, proof of address, source of wealth, and an asset summary. Additionally, notarized and apostilled documents may be required depending on your structure.
Initial Consultation: Our experts conduct a personalized consultation to understand your goals and assess your risk profile. This helps us recommend an offshore trust structure that aligns with your asset protection, estate planning, and jurisdictional needs.
Building Your Trust: We oversee the legal drafting, thorough due diligence, and trustee approvals. Collaborating closely with licensed Nevis trustees, we ensure all details meet strict compliance standards and support your long-term objectives.
Implementation: After approval, we manage trust registration, assist with bank account setup if needed, and guide the transfer of assets—ensuring your trust is fully established, protected, and ready to secure your legacy.
Cook Islands Trust vs Nevis Trust
Most traditional providers charge between USD 15,000 and 30,000 to establish an offshore trust. At Offshore Companies Online, we offer a more cost-effective solution without compromising on quality, privacy, or compliance. Our all-inclusive pricing model ensures you receive top-tier service at a competitive price. For more complex, multi-layered structures—such as adding LLCs and bank accounts within a Total Protection Package, feel free to leave us a message or book a consultation to discuss your needs.
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Contact Us
Reach out to us by leaving a message or booking a consultation with a specialist. We will discuss your needs, answer your questions, and guide you through the next steps.
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Complete our form
Complete our confidential and secure onboarding process to begin your application, during which we may request supporting documents to meet jurisdictional requirements and ensure a smooth registration process.
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Finalize Requirements
Our registered agent in your chosen jurisdiction will conduct final compliance checks and confirm that all due diligence requirements are met. Once cleared, registration will proceed and the appropriate government and service fees will be paid.
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Registration
Your entity is registered. We will provide a formal introduction to your registered agent, who will be your point of contact for ongoing compliance, maintenance, and any jurisdictional matters.
The Structure
Nevis Trust
- Settlor(s):Â The settlor is the person who creates the trust by transferring assets (such as money, property, or investments) into the trust. The settlor establishes the terms and conditions of the trust and decides how the trust assets will be managed and distributed. After creating the trust, the settlor no longer owns the assets transferred into the trust; instead, they are held by the trustee for the benefit of the beneficiaries.
- Trustee:Â The trustee is responsible for managing the trust assets according to the instructions provided by the settlor in the trust deed or agreement. The trustee holds legal title to the trust assets and has a fiduciary duty to act in the best interests of the beneficiaries. This includes managing investments, distributing income or assets to beneficiaries as specified in the trust deed, and ensuring compliance with relevant laws and regulations.
- Protector: In some trusts a protector may be appointed. The protector’s role is to oversee the trustee’s activities and ensure that the trust is administered in accordance with the settlor’s wishes and the best interests of the beneficiaries. The protector may have powers to remove and appoint trustees or to approve certain decisions related to the trust.
- Beneficiary(ies):Â Beneficiaries are the individuals or entities who are entitled to benefit from the trust. Beneficiaries can include specific named individuals, such as family members or charitable organizations, or they may be defined by a class (e.g., all grandchildren of the settlor). Beneficiaries can receive income generated by the trust assets or may have the right to receive distributions of trust assets at specific times or under certain conditions, as outlined in the trust deed.
Offshore Bank Account
- If selected, the Nevis Trust will own and operate the offshore bank account. This account, held within the framework of the trust, serves as a secure vehicle for managing and safeguarding assets in accordance with the trust’s objectives and the interests of its beneficiaries.
FREQUENTLY ASKED QUESTIONS: NEVIS TRUST
What is The Nevis International Exempt Trust Ordinance?
Established in 1994, this legislation forms the foundation of Nevis’s respected asset protection framework. It provides exceptional protection through robust provisions like a two-year statute of limitations on claims against trusts. Potential creditors must also post a substantial $100,000 bond before initiating legal proceedings. This combination creates a formidable barrier against frivolous litigation while ensuring genuine cases can still proceed through proper channels.
It also accommodates various asset types, from traditional investments to digital holdings, while maintaining strict privacy standards that make unauthorised disclosure of trust information a criminal offence. With ongoing evolution and updates, the Ordinance remains a premier jurisdiction for those seeking robust wealth protection.
How are Nevis trusts taxed?
Nevis trusts are tax-exempt in Nevis, but individuals setting them up must comply with the tax laws of their country of residence or nationality.
For US persons, these trusts are typically classified as ‘foreign grantor trusts’ for tax purposes. As the grantor, you must report the trust’s income on your personal tax return. The trust’s worldwide income remains taxable in the US, and specific reporting requirements apply.
Given the complexity of international tax law, we strongly recommend maintaining a relationship with a qualified tax professional who can provide specific advice for your situation.
Do I need to visit Nevis to set up my trust?
No. Through our streamlined formation process, we can establish your Nevis offshore trust remotely while maintaining the highest security and compliance standards.
We coordinate all necessary documentation, verify your identity through approved remote methods, and work with licensed Nevis trustees who are experienced in handling international client requirements.
For those who do wish to visit, Nevis is easily accessible from major US cities, and our team can arrange meetings with all relevant parties during your stay.
Where is Nevis?
Nevis is a Caribbean island situated in the West Indies. Positioned in the Lesser Antilles, it is located in close proximity to the eastern coast of Puerto Rico. Known for its natural beauty and tropical climate, Nevis is part of the Federation of Saint Kitts and Nevis. With its pristine beaches, lush landscapes, and a rich historical heritage, Nevis attracts those seeking a serene escape in the heart of the Caribbean.
Situated approximately 300 kilometers (186 miles) southeast of Puerto Rico, Nevis boasts a tranquil environment and is accessible by air and sea. The island is characterized by its picturesque landscapes, including the iconic Nevis Peak, a dormant volcano that adds to the island’s allure. Charlestown serves as the capital of Nevis, while Basseterre, located on the neighboring island of Saint Kitts, is the capital of the Federation.
In addition to its natural charm, Nevis has established itself as a reputable jurisdiction for offshore financial services. The island offers a range of financial solutions, including trusts and international business entities, making it an attractive destination for those seeking financial privacy, security, and strategic wealth management.
Who can set up a Nevis Trust?
Anyone, including individuals, families, and businesses, can establish a Nevis Trust. There are no residency requirements for settlors or beneficiaries, making Nevis Trusts accessible to international clients.
Why use Offshore Companies Online for my Nevis Trust?
Offshore Companies Online provides a significantly more cost-effective and efficient solution for establishing your Nevis Trust, offering significant savings compared to traditional methods that can cost between $15,000 to $30,000 USD. Our online platform simplifies the trust formation process while maintaining the highest standards of service. We partner with reputable registered agents and service providers who meet our stringent criteria, ensuring professionalism and reliability throughout the trust establishment process. With our services, you benefit from a streamlined and affordable approach to setting up your Nevis Trust without compromising on quality or expertise.
Why is the Nevis Trust so popular with American citizens?
Nevis Trusts are popular among Americans not only because of the asset protection advantages such a structure offers but because Nevis is geographically close to the USA. Its proximity allows for convenient travel and communication with service providers. This physical closeness facilitates easier oversight and coordination of the trust’s activities, providing a level of comfort and accessibility to American clients utilizing Nevis as an offshore jurisdiction for asset protection and wealth management.
Why should I choose a Nevis Trust over a domestic U.S. Trust?
Domestic trusts are generally established under the laws of the settlor’s home country. While they offer a familiar method for managing and distributing assets, they are more susceptible to domestic legal challenges, creditor claims, and specific tax considerations within that jurisdiction. Furthermore, domestic asset protection trusts may still be vulnerable to judgments and legal actions within their home jurisdiction. In contrast, choosing a Nevis Trust provides a stronger shield against these challenges, offering enhanced privacy, global recognition, and robust legal safeguards.
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