Forex license in the Comoros Islands
Last Update: 27.12.2025
A Forex license in the Comoros Islands gives businesses the opportunity to take advantage of competitive tax rates, a simplified application process, and the potential of a growing financial services sector. Gofaizen & Sherle will help you expand your business and gain the trust of new clients by successfully obtaining a Forex license.
The Comoros Islands are a union of several self-governing islands: Mohéli, Anjouan, and Grande Comore. All financial structures, currency transactions, asset management, and investment services are subject to the control of the Ministry of Finance and Economy of the Comoros Islands and the Central Bank, with audits conducted by the Internal Control and Audit Service (SICAF). Obtaining a license allows you to offer services for trading currencies, futures, stocks, and precious metals around the world.
This jurisdiction has already been chosen by a number of well-known companies, such as Sardis Global, Forexix, Alpari, and Off Capital Trading Ltd.
Why Choose the Comoros Islands for Forex Licensing?
Among the many jurisdictions, the Comoros Islands stand out for their specific requirements and licensing process.
A Forex broker license in the Comoros offers the following advantages:
Cost-effective and fast registration.
For companies with limited capital, obtaining a license takes a minimum amount of time (2-4 weeks) thanks to simplified procedures and optimal requirements.
Privacy of business owners’ data.
Data confidentiality and the possibility of using nominee directors help to ensure business privacy.
No restrictions on capital movement.
There is no currency control here, which greatly facilitates interaction with business partners from other jurisdictions.
Tax incentives.
Forex companies are exempt from corporate tax, VAT, and capital gains tax, which significantly reduces business expenses.
Regulatory Environment in Comoros
The Comoros Islands consist of several autonomous islands with their own regulatory bodies, such as:
- On the island of Mohéli, the International Services Authority (MISA) is responsible for the operation of forex companies.
- In Anjouan, the Offshore Financial Authority (AOFA) regulates the activities of financial companies and protects the rights of clients.
The overall regulation of the entire Comoros financial services license system is carried out by:
- The Ministry of Finance and Economy of the Comoros is the main regulator of the country’s economy.
- The Central Bank conducts monetary policy.
- The Internal Control and Audit Service (SICAF) is responsible for auditing the activities of forex companies.
Key legislative acts of the jurisdiction:
- Law No. 21-004 on Combating Terrorism and Money Laundering requires companies to implement the necessary measures to identify customers and monitor transactions.
- Law No.20-005 AU on payment services and payment service providers defines the conditions for making payments.
- Banking Law 13-003-AU is necessary for regulating financial companies.
What Criteria Must be Met to Obtain a Forex License in Comoros?
Obtaining a Forex business license requires compliance with certain standards designed to guarantee the legitimacy of the business and ensure financial transparency.
The main conditions and rules that the applicant must comply with are:
Application submitted by a legal entity.
Only IBCs registered on the islands can apply for a license to operate in the currency market, provided they also have an office.
Proof of financial soundness.
Depending on the organizational and legal form, the type of license, companies must provide proof of initial capital contribution (from €50,000).
Preparation of a business plan.
In the description of future business activities, it is necessary to clarify the development strategy for the Regulator, describe the services offered and the market of potential customers, and form a financial forecast for the next 3 years.
Detailed management information.
Key managers must confirm their experience and reputation to the Regulator.
Risk minimization.
AML/CFT procedures, constant monitoring of transactions, assessment of the risk level of operations, mandatory KYC, preparation of reports and submission to the authorized state body, segregation of client funds – these are key requirements for financial intermediaries.
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Steps to Obtain a Forex License in Comoros
Despite the simplicity and speed of the Comoros financial licensing process, each company should carefully prepare and go through all the stages of registration, such as:
Step 1: Entering data about the legal entity in the state register.
IBC registration in the islands can take up to one week, with no restrictions on the place of residence for managers and shareholders.
Step 2: Provide a complete set of documents.
When applying to the Regulator, the licensee also includes the following with the application:
- Basic company documents (Articles of Association, Memorandum, contracts, etc.)
- Description of business activities.
- Confirmation of the required capital contribution.
- Personal documents of managers and shareholders confirming their experience in the financial sector and positive business reputation.
- Developed AML/CFT policies.
Step 3: Submission of the application to the regulator.
The regulator needs up to 4 weeks to analyze the submitted business plan, assess the reliability, and verify the source of funding and the competence of the management.
Step 4: License approval and commencement of operations.
The basic post-licensing requirements include:
- Maintaining financial records.
- Compliance with AML/CFT procedures.
- Notification of changes in the business structure.
Types of forex licenses in the Comoros
Designed for companies targeting international clients and planning to provide services outside the Union of the Comoros. This license is primarily aimed at clients from other countries, making it an ideal choice for companies seeking international reach. The regulatory requirements for obtaining it are minimal compared to a license for onshore business, which simplifies the application process and reduces the administrative burden.
The offshore license is cost-effective and provides the opportunity to:
- offer a wide range of services, including forex brokerage,
- futures and contracts for difference (CFD) trading,
- adapt their business models to the requirements of the international market, providing their clients with freedom of choice in strategies and products.
The offshore license is most often issued by MISA in Mohéli and is recognized by international banks, ensuring ease of financial transactions and good banking relations.
Designed for companies targeting clients from the Union of the Comoros or a specific island. The license allows you to serve local and regional clients, creating a solid base in the local market. To obtain it, you must meet more stringent regulatory requirements, including additional checks and strict compliance with local regulations.
An onshore license allows you to:
- strengthen your presence in the local market,
- focus on serving customers residing in the Comoros, which helps build long-term and trusting relationships.
This license is often issued by the AOFA in Anjouan and includes the right to provide clearing and settlement services. It allows companies not only to conduct transactions but also to make final settlements and transfer assets.
The choice of license depends on the goals and strategy of your business. An offshore license is suitable for international presence and cost reduction, while an onshore license is suitable for strengthening your position in the local market. Consultations with Gofaizen & Sherle experts will help you choose the best option that meets the unique needs of your business.
Tax Advantages
Forex regulation in the Comoros Islands involves not only compliance with the requirements, but also the possibility of using an attractive tax regime:
- There is no income tax for IBCs.
- VAT is 10%, but financial services provided to international clients are not taxed.
- Investors and company owners are exempt from dividend tax, and there is no capital gains tax on share sale.
The Comoros Islands have not signed any double taxation agreements (DTAs), which is worth considering when working with other countries.
Conclusion
Investors and entrepreneurs are increasingly viewing the Comoros Islands as one of the most promising jurisdictions for a quick entry into Forex. Local authorities offer a relatively quick registration process, minimal costs, and a favorable tax system. It should be noted that there are no double taxation agreements, and regulatory oversight remains weak compared to jurisdictions such as the UK or the US.
FAQ about Forex license in the Comoros islands
Is a Forex license in the Comoros available to international companies?
Yes, there are no restrictions on international companies (IBCs) in this jurisdiction, nor are there any requirements regarding the citizenship of managers and shareholders.
How long does it take to review an application for a Forex license?
The regulator needs 2-4 weeks to make a decision, but if any deficiencies are found, the review period may be extended.
What taxes do brokerage companies have to pay?
There are no taxes for financial companies involved in forex activities. It is worth remembering that there are no DTA agreements.
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