Tax on Investment Income in Marshall Islands
Investment income in the Marshall Islands benefits from a favorable tax regime with low rates and no withholding tax on most investment returns.
Dividend Income
Individual Taxation
Dividends received by individual residents are subject to 0% withholding tax. Dividends are included in the individual's total taxable income and taxed at progressive PIT rates (0–12%). Non-residents also benefit from 0% withholding tax on dividends from Marshall Islands sources.
Corporate Taxation
Dividends received by a resident company from another resident company are generally exempt from corporate income tax. Foreign-source dividends are taxable at the standard CIT rate of 22%.
Interest Income
Individual Taxation
Interest income earned by individuals is subject to 0% withholding tax. The interest income is included in the individual's total taxable income and taxed at progressive PIT rates.
Corporate Taxation
Interest income received by corporations is included in taxable income and taxed at the standard CIT rate of 22%. Interest expense is generally deductible.
Rental Income
Rental income from immovable property is taxed as follows:
- Individuals: Net rental income (after deducting expenses) is subject to progressive PIT rates (0–12%)
- Corporations: Rental income is included in business income and taxed at 22%
- Withholding Tax: 0% on rental payments to non-residents
Landlords may deduct expenses including maintenance, property management fees, insurance, interest on mortgages, and depreciation.
Capital Gains
Capital gains on investments are generally taxed as ordinary income. For individuals, gains are taxed at progressive PIT rates (0–12%). For corporations, gains are taxed at the standard CIT rate of 22%.
Foreign Investment Income
The Marshall Islands taxes residents on their worldwide income. Foreign investment income is generally taxable in the Marshall Islands, with a foreign tax credit available for taxes paid abroad.
Tax-Efficient Investment Vehicles
- IBCs: International Business Corporations are exempt from domestic tax
- Trusts: Can be used for tax-efficient investment holding
- Retirement Savings: Contributions to approved pension plans may be tax-deductible
Reporting Requirements
Investment income is included in the annual tax return. Given the 0% withholding tax rates, there is no final withholding tax system; all income must be declared in the taxpayer's annual return.