BVI Implementing Beneficial Ownership Search Platform

The BVI government completed legislative requirements to implement the Beneficial Ownership Secure Search system - an innovative technology-enabled searchable portal changing the way how beneficial ownership information on BVI companies is held and accessed, and also shared with competent authorities in the BVI and the United Kingdom. The new platform was developed following the exchange of notes with the UK in April 2016.

Corporate service providers are required to upload the beneficial ownership of their clients to the new system, where the BVI competent authorities may find information available within 24 hours. By words of BVI Premier and minister of finance, Dr Orlando Smith, “Through its use of technology BOSSs perfectly blends the principles of privacy and security and is entirely fit for purpose. Working with BDO, we have developed a world class platform that will benefit all stakeholders, including corporate service providers, company owners and law enforcement agencies.

Other jurisdictions are acting similarly to further improve standards for holding and making beneficial ownership information accessible to competent authorities.