# Can I Buy a Readymade Offshore Company and Change Its Name? URL: https://www.businesssetup.com/blog/can-i-buy-ready-made-offshore-company-and-change-its-name Description: Learn how to buy a ready-made offshore company and rename it to suit your business needs. This step-by-step guide will streamline your setup! Published: 01 February 2026 Updated: 03 March 2026 --- The short answer is 'Yes.” Buying a readymade offshore company is a strategic decision. But moving from merely buying to actively operating involves multiple steps. It includes overcoming legal and administrative challenges and selecting the ideal jurisdiction. You can follow our special guide for more details on jurisdictions, process, and how to change the company's name. ## What is a Readymade Offshore Company?  A readymade offshore company, an aged corporation, a shelf company, or a vintage company is a pre-registered business entity that has been legally formed but has not conducted any business activity. ## Why are Offshore Readymade Companies Popular? Offshore readymade companies are popular because of the following reasons: * They avoid lengthy setup times.  * They appear more stable and trustworthy, which helps build customer and partner confidence, making them vital for international business.  * Like any corporation, it provides liability protection that distinguishes between personal and business assets.  ## How to Buy a Readymade Company? The process of buying an offshore shelf company varies depending on the jurisdiction you choose. However, we’ve created a list of general steps to help you understand better. ### Step 1: Connect with a Business Expert Buying an offshore readymade company starts by picking a company from a list provided by the relevant authorities. You can choose your shelf company based on its age and your requirements. They will also help you appoint a registered agent to act as a bridge between the authorities and your venture.   ### Step 2: Undergo KYC Check Once you've made your choice, you'll need to provide some basic ID, such as a passport and a utility bill. This is a standard safety check called ‘Know Your Customer’ (KYC) compliance that happens in every location. Your agent will be responsible for liaising with the authorities and submitting your details.  ### Step 3: Transfer of Ownership After the check, the agent prepares transfer paperwork, including signing documents that officially transfer ownership and appoint you as the new director. Once signed, the agent updates the official government records to reflect your new position.  ### Step 4: Name Change If your company name does not align with your business goals, you can ask the agent to submit a name change form to the relevant authority. ### Step 5: Receive Your Updated Documents Upon completing the above-mentioned steps, it's time to receive your updated documents. ## What are the Steps to Rename your Offshore Shelf Company? Renaming a shelf company involves multiple steps that may vary jurisdiction-wise. Here are some generic steps you can consider: 1. ### Check the Availability of The Name Your registered agent checks the registry to ensure the name you have chosen isn’t taken or restricted. 2. ### Pass a Resolution You, as the new owner or director, must sign a formal document stating that the company's name is changing from the old name to the new name. 3. ### File with the Registrar Your registered agent submits the resolution and the "Notice of Change of Name" form to the respective authority. 4. ### Receive New Certificate The government issues a Certificate of Name Change. Also, note that the ID number of your company stays the same; only the name on the certificate changes. 5. ### Update Your Records You must notify the bank and update the company seal, letterheads, and website to reflect the company’s new identity. ## Jurisdictions that Support Shelf Company Name Change and the List of Documents Required Do you know which jurisdictions support shelf company formation and name changes? If not, we've listed the top 5 offshore locations where you can easily proceed with the same. Jurisdiction Business Structures  Documents Required for Name Change Approval Authority Seychelles [International Business Company](https://www.businesssetup.com/services/international-business-company) (IBC) Amended Memorandum & Articles of Association (MoA &AoA) Filed with the Financial Services Authority Seychelles via a Registered Agent. Belize Business Company (BC) Form 6 (Amendment) + Amended MoA &AoA via Online Business Registry System(OBRS) Must be filed via the OBRS portal by a licensed agent. [Limited Liability Company](https://www.businesssetup.com/services/limited-liability-company) (LLC) Articles of Amendment to the Articles of Organization Cayman Islands [Exempted Company](https://www.businesssetup.com/blog/a-guide-to-exempted-company-in-the-cayman-islands) Certified copy of Special Resolution + Amended MoA & AoA Filed with the General Registry Nevis IBC (NBCO) Articles of Amendment Filed with the Financial Services Regulatory Commission (FSRC) LLC Articles of Amendment to the Articles of Organization ## Why Choose BSW for Assisting with Obtaining a Readymade Offshore Company? BSW has been offering [shelf company services](https://www.businesssetup.com/services/shelf-companies) for over 8 years in more than 30 offshore locations. We assist clients by providing registered agents in their preferred regions, enabling them to acquire ready-made companies. We also help with name change procedures for offshore readymade companies. [Contact us](https://www.businesssetup.com/contact-us) for more information.