How to Register a Sole Proprietorship in Nauru

Nauru is an island country located in the Pacific Ocean, and it is the third smallest country in the world. It has a relatively small market, but Nauru is considered a tax haven. It is more and more popular among foreign investors because there is no income tax for permanent residents.

English is the official language in Nauru and the currency used is the Australian dollar. It is the only country in the world that does not have a capital city.

Sole Proprietorship in Nauru

If you're looking to open your own business rather than work in a company, a sole proprietorship might be the right fit. A sole proprietorship (sometimes referred to as sole trader) is a business formed and owned by an individual. This business form is easy to establish and run, unlike other forms. The law does not distinguish the business from its owner. Being run by only one person, this form is flexible to the changing business environment. You can make decisions easier and take action instantly. The liability of a sole proprietor is unlimited, which means that you are responsible for all the assets and debts of your business, and you're operating it with all your fortune. 

Before you start operating, first, you need to register your sole proprietorship with the authorities. We have gathered the information you'll need in order to register your business easily and properly. 

Registration process

To register a Sole Proprietorship in Nauru, you will have to visit the Department of Justice & Border Control. It is located in the Parliament House, in Yaren district. Go to the front desk and ask for the Application Form - Registration of Business Name (Individuals). Notice that you need to attach a passport-size photo to the application. Fill out the form and submit it, along with the following documents:

• Passport biodata
• TIN (Taxpayer Identification Number)
• Birth Certificate

The TIN is obtained at the Nauru Revenue Office (NRO) by filling out the application form.

Upon submitting the application, you will be given the Invoice for the business name and business license. Take this document to the Department of Finance, located in Civic Centre, Aiwo District, to pay the fee and finish the procedure. The name reservation fee costs $20, and the annual business license fee costs $300. After the payment, your business is registered, and you are ready to start operating.

Taxes in Nauru

Non-resident individuals are subject to small business tax instead of business profits tax if the following conditions are met:

• The individual conducts the business solely in Nauru
• The individual was not subject to business profits tax for the previous tax year
• The total gross revenue of the individual for the previous tax year did not exceed AUD 250,000.

The SBT rate is 2.5%, and it is paid quarterly. If your gross revenue exceeds $250,000, the tax is calculated at 20%.

Resident individuals whose gross revenue does not exceed $250,000, are not subject to the Business Profit Tax (BPT). BPT is paid annually if turnover exceeds $250,000 at a rate of 20%.

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