Discover why Monaco is the world's leading tax haven for high net worth individuals and businesses.
Monaco, known for its luxurious lifestyle and breathtaking Mediterranean views, offers one of the world's most advantageous tax regimes for high-net-worth individuals and businesses.
As a sovereign city-state with a stable political environment and strong banking secrecy laws, Monaco has established itself as the premier destination for wealth preservation and tax optimization.
With zero income tax, zero wealth tax, zero capital gains tax, and zero inheritance tax for direct heirs, Monaco provides an unparalleled environment for protecting and growing your wealth.
No personal income tax since 1869 for all residents (except French nationals).
No wealth tax on assets or worldwide wealth for residents.
No capital gains tax on investment portfolios, equities, or other assets.
No inheritance tax for direct heirs (spouse, children, grandchildren).
| Country | Income Tax | Wealth Tax | Inheritance Tax | Capital Gains | VAT Rate | Key Highlights |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| Monaco | 0% | 0% | 0% for direct heirs | 0% | 20% (but many exemptions) |
|
| Switzerland | ~20-40% | 0.3-1% | 0-50% (canton dependent) | 0% on private assets | 7.7% |
|
| Singapore | Up to 22% | 0% | 0% | 0% | 8% |
|
| Dubai (UAE) | 0% | 0% | 0% | 0% | 5% |
|
While other jurisdictions offer competitive tax systems, Monaco stands out for its complete exemption from personal income tax, capital gains tax, and wealth tax, combined with its European location, safety, quality of life, and political stability.
Prerequisites for Monaco residency
Step-by-step residency application guide
Documents needed for your application
Monaco citizenship is highly exclusive and cannot be obtained through investment programs. The principality has a strict naturalization process that typically requires long-term residency.
Important Note: Unlike many countries, Monaco rarely grants citizenship through naturalization, with only a small number approved each year. Most residents maintain their original citizenship while enjoying Monaco's tax benefits as permanent residents.
Monaco's banking sector is renowned for its:
Monaco's real estate market is one of the most expensive and exclusive in the world, commanding average prices exceeding €48,000 per square meter. The principality's limited land area of just 2.02 km² creates extraordinary demand in this highly desirable location.
Prestigious central district with luxury apartments
Beachfront area with high-end residences
Newer district with marina views
Port area with charming historic buildings
Prestigious Monaco properties
Tour Odéon
Iconic 49-story luxury tower with panoramic views
Les Jardins d'Apolline
Elegant residential complex in Condamine district
One Monte Carlo
Ultra-luxury residences in the heart of Monte Carlo
Portier Cove
Ambitious land reclamation project with luxury eco-apartments
Setting up a company in Monaco offers numerous advantages, including favorable tax treatment, prestigious address, and proximity to wealthy clientele.
SARL (Société à Responsabilité Limitée)
Limited liability company, minimum capital of €15,000
SAM (Société Anonyme Monégasque)
Public limited company, minimum capital of €150,000
SCS (Société en Commandite Simple)
Limited partnership with both general and limited partners
SNC (Société en Nom Collectif)
General partnership where all partners have unlimited liability
Corporate Tax Rate: 25%
Only on profits generated within Monaco
Exemptions Available
Companies deriving less than 25% of turnover outside Monaco
No Withholding Tax
On dividends, interest, or royalties
VAT System
Follows French VAT rules (20% standard rate)
Business Authorization
Submit application to the Economic Expansion Department
Secure Office Space
Lease or purchase commercial property in Monaco
Prepare Articles of Association
With assistance from a Monegasque notary
Deposit Capital
In a Monaco bank account
Government Approval
Ministerial decree required for SAM companies
Registration
Register with the Trade and Industry Register (RCI)
Tax Registration
Register with the tax authorities
Social Security Registration
For company employees
Get expert guidance on Monaco residency, tax planning, and wealth preservation from our team of trusted professionals.