How Consultrio Can assist
Regulatory licensing and FSRA liaison
We handle end-to-end coordination with the FSRA to ensure smooth approval of your ADGM CAT 4 license application.
Drafting compliance manuals and policies
Our team prepares tailored AML/CFT compliance manuals and internal policies that meet FSRA regulatory standards.
Company formation and office setup
We assist with company incorporation in ADGM, including securing your office space or flexi-desk as per licensing needs.
Bank Account Opening Assistance
Our team facilitates corporate and personal bank account openings with leading UAE banks, ensuring compliance and faster approvals.
Visa and Relocation Assistance
We manage the entire visa application process and support your relocation to Abu Dhabi, including Emirates ID registration, medicals, and family sponsorship.
Ongoing compliance support
Stay fully compliant with ADGM regulations through our continuous compliance monitoring and reporting services.
Setting Up an ADGM CAT 4 License: A Complete Guide
Unlock Financial Opportunities with an ADGM Category 4 License in Abu Dhabi
Are you considering setting up an ADGM CAT 4 license? The Abu Dhabi Global Market (ADGM) offers one of the most prestigious and flexible regulatory frameworks in the Middle East for financial services firms. A Category 4 license is specifically designed for firms providing non-discretionary financial services, such as advising on investments and arranging credit or deals in investments.
In this comprehensive guide, we’ll walk you through the process, requirements, benefits, and costs involved in setting up an ADGM CAT 4 license.
Access to Institutional-Grade Regulatory Infrastructure
ADGM’s FSRA provides a robust yet business-friendly regulatory framework based on English Common Law, eliminating the legal ambiguities found in other offshore jurisdictions. The Category 4 license is tailored for firms offering advisory and intermediation services—allowing you to operate in a regulatory environment that balances investor protection with operational flexibility.
Streamlined Market Entry for Fintech & Advisory Firms
ADGM offers a Category 4 license specifically tailored to non-custodial financial firms—those that provide advisory and arranging services without holding or managing client funds. This includes independent financial advisors, fintech platforms offering investment intermediation, wealth structuring consultants, and boutique corporate finance or M&A advisory firms.
Global Recognition + Passporting Opportunities
Operating within ADGM significantly enhances your firm’s international credibility. It opens up access to cross-border opportunities through MoUs and passporting arrangements with key regulators including the UK’s FCA, the Monetary Authority of Singapore (MAS), and the Securities and Futures Commission (SFC) in Hong Kong. This is particularly valuable if your strategy includes servicing HNWIs or institutional clients across the GCC, Europe, and Asia.
Low Regulatory Capital + Predictable Compliance Burden
With a minimum capital requirement starting at just USD 10,000, and no requirement to hold client assets, the ADGM CAT 4 license offers a low-barrier regulatory path to enter the UAE market. Additionally:
1. You can appoint outsourced compliance officers and MLROs
2. FSRA accepts shared workspace models, reducing operational overhead
3. The compliance burden is lighter compared to CAT 3 or CAT 2 license holders
Advantages of ADGM CAT 4 License
ADGM CAT 4 License Requirements
Setting up an ADGM CAT 4 license involves meeting specific regulatory, operational, and documentation standards as defined by the Financial Services Regulatory Authority (FSRA) of the Abu Dhabi Global Market (ADGM)
1. Regulatory Capital Requirement
Licensed entities are generally not subject to corporate income tax in Anjouan, allowing you to retain more of your revenue and reinvest in growth. This makes it highly attractive for startups, established operators, and international gaming companies.
2. Fit and Proper Personnel
The FSRA mandates that all regulated firms appoint individuals who meet the “fit and proper” criteria—assessing integrity, competence, financial soundness, and relevant experience. At a minimum, the firm must designate:
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A Licensed Director, responsible for governance and high-level oversight.
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A Compliance Officer (CO) to ensure alignment with ADGM regulations.
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A Money Laundering Reporting Officer (MLRO) who will monitor and report suspicious transactions in line with UAE AML/CFT obligations.
In smaller firms, the same individual can sometimes act as both CO and MLRO, subject to FSRA approval. These individuals may be outsourced to an FSRA-approved third-party compliance service provider if internal resources are limited.
3. Physical Office within ADGM
To proceed with the application, firms are required to secure a physical presence within ADGM. This can be satisfied by leasing a dedicated office space or operating from an approved serviced business center within the ADGM jurisdiction. The space must be fit for regulatory audits, staff operations, and maintaining statutory records. It also reinforces the firm’s commitment to ADGM’s ecosystem and its operational substance.
4. Comprehensive Business Plan
Applicants must submit a detailed business plan that outlines the firm's strategic intent, target markets, financial projections, service offerings, and operational structure. The FSRA typically expects:
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A breakdown of regulated activities the firm intends to carry out
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Description of the target client base (retail, professional, or market counterparties)
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Anticipated revenue model and 3-year financial forecasts
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Organizational chart and outsourcing arrangements
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Risk assessment and mitigation plans
This plan forms the backbone of the FSRA’s risk assessment during the application review process.
5. Robust Internal Policies and Procedures
As part of setting up an ADGM CAT 4 license, firms must submit a suite of internal governance documents that demonstrate regulatory readiness and operational integrity. These include:
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Compliance Manual: outlining the framework for ongoing regulatory compliance
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AML & CFT Policies: demonstrating how the firm will detect and report suspicious activities
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Data Protection Policy: especially important given ADGM’s alignment with international data privacy norms
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Risk Management Framework: identifying operational, financial, and strategic risks
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Business Continuity Plan (BCP): showing how the firm will manage disruptions
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Client Onboarding and KYC Policies: customized to suit target client types and jurisdictions
These documents must be tailored, not templated, and reflect the unique nature of your business model and operations.
Tax Considerations of ADGM CAT 4 License
One of the key advantages of setting up an ADGM CAT 4 license is the favorable and transparent tax environment offered by the Abu Dhabi Global Market (ADGM), making it highly attractive for financial advisory firms, fintech startups, and wealth management entities targeting regional and international clients.
1. Zero Corporate Tax in ADGM Free Zone (Subject to Conditions)
Companies licensed under the ADGM CAT 4 license are potentially eligible for 0% corporate tax on qualifying income earned within the ADGM Free Zone. This tax exemption is granted to firms that qualify as Qualifying Free Zone Persons (QFZP) under the UAE Corporate Tax Law (Federal Decree-Law No. 47 of 2022).
To benefit from the 0% tax rate, your ADGM-licensed Category 4 firm must:
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Be a legal entity established in ADGM, such as a private company limited by shares (Ltd.)
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Conduct core income-generating activities (CIGA) such as financial advisory or arranging deals entirely within the ADGM ecosystem
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Maintain adequate substance in ADGM, including physical premises, full-time employees, and active local management
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Not be used merely as a conduit for mainland UAE or foreign business without substantial activity inside ADGM
Failure to meet these conditions may lead to disqualification from the zero-tax regime, triggering the standard UAE corporate tax.
2. 9% UAE Corporate Tax for Non-Qualifying Income
While ADGM CAT 4 licensed firms enjoy favorable tax treatment, income that falls outside the definition of “qualifying income”—such as services rendered to UAE mainland clients—may be subject to the standard 9% UAE corporate tax.
For example, if your firm under the ADGM CAT 4 license advises mainland clients or provides certain non-financial services, you must:
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Segregate income streams between qualifying and non-qualifying sources
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Maintain separate accounting records for each line of business
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Consider setting up a dual-structure model (e.g., ADGM entity + mainland branch) if mainland exposure is significant
3. No Withholding Tax and Full Profit Repatriation
Firms operating under an ADGM Category 4 license also benefit from the absence of withholding taxes on dividends, interest, or royalties. This makes ADGM an ideal jurisdiction for international financial services companies seeking to repatriate profits or pay cross-border fees without tax leakage.
In addition, ADGM imposes no restrictions on capital or profit repatriation, ensuring seamless movement of funds to shareholders or parent companies abroad.
4. 100% Foreign Ownership & Global Tax Treaty Access
One of the key advantages of setting up an ADGM CAT 4 license is the ability to enjoy 100% foreign ownership, with no requirement for a local Emirati partner. This makes ADGM a strategic choice for global investment firms, asset managers, and fintech founders who wish to retain full control of their business.
Moreover, the UAE has signed over 140 Double Taxation Avoidance Agreements (DTAAs) with countries worldwide. These treaties help reduce or eliminate withholding tax in the investor’s home jurisdiction, further enhancing ADGM’s attractiveness as a global financial hub.
5. VAT Implications for ADGM CAT 4 Licensed Firms
While most financial services activities under an ADGM CAT 4 license are exempt from UAE Value Added Tax (VAT), certain advisory or ancillary services provided to UAE-based clients may trigger VAT obligations. If your firm's taxable supplies exceed AED 375,000 annually, VAT registration becomes mandatory.
Firms must evaluate:
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Whether their services are VAT-exempt or zero-rated
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If reverse charge mechanisms apply for foreign clients
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Their obligations around VAT invoicing, filing, and compliance
It is advisable to conduct a VAT impact assessment during the early setup phase to avoid penalties and ensure smooth operations post-licensing.
ADGM CAT 4 License Registration Process
Step 1: Define Your Regulated Activities and Business Model
Start by clearly outlining the nature of your financial services. The ADGM CAT 4 license is suitable for firms engaged in non-discretionary financial activities such as investment advisory, arranging deals in investments, or introducing clients to fund managers. Ensure that your business model aligns with the permissions granted under Category 4 and prepare a high-level overview of your services, target clients, and projected AUM (Assets Under Management), if applicable.
Step 2: Engage with the Financial Services Regulatory Authority (FSRA)
Before submitting a formal application, it is mandatory to conduct a pre-application meeting with the FSRA, the financial regulator of ADGM. This is your opportunity to present your proposed business activities, ownership structure, compliance framework, and get initial feedback on your licensing pathway. This step helps reduce approval time by addressing regulatory expectations early on.
Step 3: Submit Your ADGM CAT 4 License Application
Following the pre-engagement, you will prepare and submit the full application via the FSRA’s online portal. Your submission must include:
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Detailed business plan
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3-year financial projections
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Organizational structure & governance model
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AML/CFT compliance policies
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Fit-and-proper documentation for key individuals and shareholders
Engaging legal or compliance consultants with ADGM experience can significantly improve your application’s success rate.
Step 4: Regulatory Review, Licensing & Incorporation
The FSRA will thoroughly review your application, request clarifications if needed, and conduct interviews with key personnel. Once your ADGM CAT 4 license is approved, you will proceed to:
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Incorporate your legal entity within ADGM (e.g., a private company limited by shares)
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Receive your commercial license and regulatory approval
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Activate office space within ADGM (physical or Regus/Flexi-desk options available)
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Finalize banking setup and operational launch
ADGM CAT 4 License Cost
CAT 4 License Application Fees
CAT 4 License fees (Annually)
Office Rent (Annual)
Preparation of AML and Compliance Policies
Project management fees
Bank Account Opening
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Does the license include residency visas for owners or employees?Yes, once the company is incorporated in ADGM, you can apply for UAE residency visas for shareholders, employees, and their dependents.
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What are the key requirements for obtaining the license?Applicants must submit a detailed business plan, compliance policies, financial projections, fit-and-proper documentation for key personnel, and engage in pre-application meetings with the FSRA.
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What are the capital requirements for an ADGM CAT 4 license?Firms must maintain a minimum base capital of USD 10,000, but this may vary depending on the business model and associated risks.
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Who needs an ADGM CAT 4 license?The ADGM CAT 4 license is ideal for financial advisory firms, fund marketing entities, placement agents, and introducers who want to operate in a regulated environment without discretionary fund management.
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Can I operate remotely with an ADGM CAT 4 license?While remote operations are possible, firms must have a registered presence in ADGM, which includes maintaining a physical or flexi-desk office within the jurisdiction.
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How long does it take to get an ADGM CAT 4 license?The licensing process typically takes 2 to 4 months, depending on the completeness of the application, FSRA response times, and applicant readiness for regulatory engagement.
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Will I receive support with opening a UAE bank account?Yes, we provide complete assistance with corporate and personal bank account openings through our network of partner banks in the UAE.
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What is an ADGM CAT 4 license?An ADGM Category 4 license allows firms to conduct non-discretionary financial services such as advising on investments, arranging deals, and marketing financial products without managing client assets directly.
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What is an Anjouan gaming license?An Anjouan gaming license is a government-issued authorization from the island of Anjouan, part of the Union of the Comoros. It allows online gaming companies to legally operate casinos, sportsbooks, lotteries, and other iGaming services. It’s one of the most affordable offshore gaming licenses with global appeal.
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Can I operate internationally with an Anjouan license?Yes, the Anjouan gaming license allows operators to serve players in most global markets, except for a few restricted jurisdictions like the U.S., U.K., and France. It is especially popular among platforms targeting Latin America, Asia, Africa, and crypto-friendly regions. Always check compliance for each target country.
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Is the Anjouan license recognized by payment processors and game providers?Yes. The Anjouan license has gained increasing international credibility and is recognized by many payment gateways, banks, and software providers. It offers a strong foundation for launching or expanding your gaming brand with legitimate regulatory backing.
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Do I need to open a company in Anjouan?No. One of the key advantages is that you can apply using your existing company without having to form a new entity in Anjouan. This significantly reduces setup time and costs, making the license ideal for startups and scaling platforms.
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What types of licenses are available in Anjouan?Anjouan offers two main license categories: B2C License – for operators running online casinos, sportsbooks, or gaming platforms B2B License – for companies offering white-label services, software, or game aggregation to other operators
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How long does it take to get an Anjouan gaming license?The registration process typically takes 3 to 5 weeks from the date of full document submission. This makes Anjouan one of the fastest jurisdictions for obtaining an online gambling license. The process is fully remote and streamlined for international applicants.
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What is an Anjouan gaming license?An Anjouan gaming license is a government-issued authorization from the island of Anjouan, part of the Union of the Comoros. It allows online gaming companies to legally operate casinos, sportsbooks, lotteries, and other iGaming services. It’s one of the most affordable offshore gaming licenses with global appeal.
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Can a foreigner register a company in Sri Lanka?Yes, foreigners can fully own and register a company in Sri Lanka in most sectors. There are no citizenship or residency requirements for directors or shareholders, except in a few restricted industries such as travel agencies and freight forwarding.
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What are the requirements to register a company in Sri Lanka?Key requirements include: A unique company name At least one director and one shareholder (can be the same person) A local registered address in Sri Lanka A qualified company secretary Submission of the required incorporation forms and documents
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Can I open a corporate bank account in Sri Lanka remotely?Some banks allow remote account opening with proper notarized or certified documentation, especially through local representatives or company secretaries. However, certain banks may require the physical presence of directors or authorized signatories, especially for foreign-owned businesses.
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What is the tax rate for companies in Sri Lanka?The standard corporate tax rate in Sri Lanka is 30%, with reduced rates of 14% for SMEs and exporters, and 18% for manufacturing companies. VAT is charged at 18%, and businesses must also apply for a Taxpayer Identification Number (TIN) post-incorporation.
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What is the minimum deposit required to open a business bank account in Sri Lanka?There is no fixed government-mandated minimum deposit, but most banks require an initial deposit. The amount typically depends on the type of company: Local-owned company: Usually LKR 10,000–50,000 (approx. USD 30–150) Foreign-owned company: Often USD 500–2,000 depending on the bank Some international banks may require higher initial deposits for foreign companies as part of their compliance and due diligence procedures.
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Which banks in Sri Lanka are most business-friendly?Popular and business-friendly banks for local and foreign investors include: Commercial Bank of Ceylon Bank of Ceylon (BOC) Sampath Bank Hatton National Bank (HNB) National Development Bank (NDB) Each offers different packages and features tailored to business needs, including internet banking, multi-currency accounts, and international transfers.
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Can I register a Sri Lankan company remotely?Yes, you can register a Sri Lankan company remotely. The entire process can be completed online via the eROC system, and many professional service providers offer full remote support, including for foreign investors.
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How long does it take to register a company in Sri Lanka?Typically, the company registration process in Sri Lanka takes around 3–5 working days, assuming all documents are in order. Name reservation can take an additional 1–2 days if submitted online.
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Is there a minimum capital requirement for company formation in Sri Lanka?No, there is no official minimum capital requirement to register a private limited company in Sri Lanka. However, a reasonable declared share capital is generally recommended based on your business activity.
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What type of company is best for doing business in Sri Lanka?A Private Limited Company (Pvt Ltd) is the most popular and flexible structure. It allows for limited liability, 100% foreign ownership, and is ideal for startups, trading businesses, and international entrepreneurs looking to register a business in Sri Lanka.
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Can a foreigner register a company in Sri Lanka?Yes, foreigners can fully own and register a company in Sri Lanka in most sectors. There are no citizenship or residency requirements for directors or shareholders, except in a few restricted industries such as travel agencies and freight forwarding.
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What types of companies can be registered in Bermuda?Bermuda offers several corporate structures under the Bermuda company register, including: Exempted Company – Ideal for international business with tax advantages Limited Liability Company (LLC) – Suited for joint ventures and private funds Local Company – For businesses serving the Bermuda market Segregated Accounts Company (SAC) – Common in insurance and asset management sectors
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How much does it cost to register a company in Bermuda?The cost to register a company in Bermuda varies based on the company type and share capital. For most exempted companies, government fees typically range from $5,900 to $8,900
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Can I register a Bermuda company remotely?Yes, you can register a company in Bermuda remotely without needing to travel to the island. This makes Bermuda a highly convenient option for entrepreneurs and investors worldwide who are looking into how to register a company in Bermuda from abroad.
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What is the best company type for international business?For most foreign investors, the Exempted Company is the best choice. It allows full foreign ownership, offers strong asset protection, and benefits from Bermuda’s zero-tax environment. If you're asking how to register a company in Bermuda for international operations, this is the go-to structure.
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Are Bermuda companies subject to taxes?No, Bermuda does not levy corporate income tax, capital gains tax, or withholding tax on exempted companies. This tax-neutral system is one of the key benefits of registering in Bermuda. However, certain companies may be subject to economic substance requirements, and government fees still apply.
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Can foreigners own 100% of a Bermuda company?Yes. Foreigners can own 100% of an exempted company in Bermuda. These companies are designed specifically for non-residents conducting business internationally. They are not permitted to trade locally in Bermuda unless special permission is granted.
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Is Belize a tax haven for offshore companies?Yes, Belize is considered a tax-efficient jurisdiction. International Business Companies (IBCs) are exempt from local income tax, capital gains tax, and stamp duty on offshore income, making it ideal to open a company in Belize for international operations
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Is Belize a good place for financial privacy?Absolutely. Belize ranks high on the Financial Secrecy Index and provides strong confidentiality laws. When you register a company in Belize, your personal and financial data is kept private and is not publicly disclosed.
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Do I need to visit Belize to open a company?No, you can register a company in Belize completely remotely. The entire process, including documentation and payment, can be handled online through Consultrio
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What type of company is best to open in Belize?The most common structure is the Belize International Business Company (IBC). It’s perfect for trading, holding assets, e-commerce, or consultancy services. Belize LLCs are also available and suited for asset protection.
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Do Belize companies need to file taxes or financial statements?Belize IBCs do not need to file annual tax returns or audited financial statements if operating exclusively offshore. However, they must maintain internal accounting records for regulatory compliance.
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Can a foreigner start a business in Belize?Yes, Belize allows 100% foreign ownership, meaning any non-resident can start a business in Belize without needing a local partner. This makes it attractive to international entrepreneurs and investors.
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Can I open a bank account for my Belize company?Yes, you can open international or offshore bank accounts for your Belize company. While some banks may require enhanced due diligence, we offer assistance with account opening as part of our company formation packages.
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1. How long does it take to register a company in UAE?Most UAE company register processes take between 3 to 10 working days, depending on the jurisdiction and business activity.
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2. Can I register a company in UAE without a local partner?Yes, in most free zones and many mainland activities, 100% foreign ownership is allowed.
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3. Do I need to be in the UAE to register a company?No, the process can often be completed remotely. Consultrio offers full remote registration support.
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4. Can I open a bank account after registering my company?Yes. Once your company license is issued, Consultrio assists with bank introductions and document preparation.
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Why should I register a Cayman company?Registering a Cayman company offers numerous benefits, including tax neutrality, no corporate income tax, flexible business laws, and global recognition as a reputable offshore jurisdiction. It's ideal for international business owners, investment funds, and asset protection.
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How long does it take to register a company in the Cayman Islands?On average, it takes 3 to 5 business days to complete the Cayman Islands company formation process, assuming all documentation is in order. However, for an additional fee we can register a company in only 1 day.
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Can I open a bank account for my Cayman company?Yes, once your Cayman company is registered, you can open an offshore bank account in a different jurisdiction. We assist with account opening through reputable international banks that accept Cayman entities.
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What types of companies can be registered in the Cayman Islands?The most popular type is the Exempted Company, designed for international business activities. Other types include: Ordinary Non-Resident Company Segregated Portfolio Company (SPC) Limited Liability Company (LLC) We help you choose the most suitable structure based on your goals.
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Can I run an online business with a Cayman company?Absolutely. A Cayman Islands company is perfect for e-commerce, SaaS, consulting, crypto projects, and other global online businesses. There are no restrictions on conducting international transactions.
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Is it mandatory to have a physical office in the Cayman Islands to register a company?No, you do not need a physical office. However, a registered office address in the Cayman Islands is legally required, which we provide as part of our Cayman company setup service.
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What are the steps to register a Cayman company?To register a Cayman company, follow these steps: Choose a company name and structure (e.g., Exempted Company) Submit due diligence documents (passport, proof of address) File incorporation documents with the Cayman Islands Registrar Appoint a registered office and company secretary (if required) Pay the government and service provider fees We handle the entire Cayman company registration process for you.
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Can I register a Cayman company remotely?Absolutely. You do not need travel to register a company in Cayman Islands. The whole process is completed 100% remotely.
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Can I open an offshore bank account for my Saint Vincent and the Grenadines company in another country?Yes, companies incorporated in Saint Vincent and the Grenadines can open offshore bank accounts in other countries.This approach allows businesses to leverage international banking facilities, diversify financial risk, and access a broader range of financial services.
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How do I register a company in Saint Vincent and the Grenadines?1. Choose a company type: Options include Limited Liability Company (LLC) or International Business Company (IBC). 2. Select a company name: Ensure it's unique and complies with local naming conventions. 3. Prepare necessary documents: This includes Articles of Incorporation and an Application for Company Registration. 4. Identify company officers and shareholders: At least one director and one shareholder are required. 5. Submit your application: File with the Commercial and Intellectual Property Office (CIPO) 7. Obtain necessary permits and licenses: Depending on your business activities, additional licenses may be required
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Can I open a company in Saint Vincent and Grenadines remotely?Yes, absolutely, you can register a company in SVG 100% remotely. All the necessary documents during company registration can be signed online.
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What documents are required to register a company in Saint Vincent and the Grenadines?You will need to need submit a notarized or certified copy of your valid passport and proof of address such as utility bill issued within last 3 months.
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Can non-residents open a corporate bank account in Saint Vincent and the Grenadines?Yes, non-residents can open corporate bank accounts in Saint Vincent and the Grenadines. You can register a company while being a resident of any country.
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Are there any tax obligations for IBCs in Saint Vincent and the Grenadines?IBCs in Saint Vincent and the Grenadines benefit from significant tax advantages: Tax Exemption: No corporate income tax, capital gains tax, or withholding tax for 25 years post-incorporation. Stamp Duty Exemption: Exempt from stamp duties on share or property transactions. No Annual Filing Requirements: IBCs are not required to file annual tax returns or financial
