VFSC Terms of Service and Conditions
Effective Date: 07th of August 2025
- Introduction
By accessing or using the Vanuatu Financial Services Commission (VFSC) website and its online services, you agree to comply with these Terms and Conditions. These terms govern the use of VFSC systems, services, and regulatory processes.
- Scope of Services
VFSC provides regulatory and public services to support business and financial activities in Vanuatu. These services include the registration of companies, business names, community companies, and charitable associations, as well as licensing services such as Financial Dealers Licensing (FDL) and Company and Trust Service Providers (CTSP). Users are also able to submit regulatory filings, annual returns, and compliance reports, and access public registry information and official records. All services are delivered in accordance with applicable laws and VFSC regulatory requirements.
- Conditions of Use
Users are required to use VFSC systems responsibly and strictly for lawful purposes. Any attempt to gain unauthorized access to VFSC systems, interfere with system operations, or introduce harmful, misleading, or false information is strictly prohibited. VFSC reserves the right to restrict, suspend, or terminate access where misuse, security risks, or suspicious activity is identified.
- User Responsibilities
Users are responsible for ensuring that all information submitted to VFSC is accurate, complete, and kept up to date. They must comply with all applicable legal and regulatory obligations when using VFSC services. Submission of any application, filing, or document does not guarantee approval, as all submissions are subject to VFSC review and assessment.
- Payments and Fees
All applicable fees must be paid before any service or application is processed by VFSC. Fees are generally non-refundable, reflecting the regulatory work undertaken in processing, assessment, and compliance review. Any exceptions to this principle are governed by the VFSC Cancellation and Refund Policy.
- Regulatory and Processing Conditions
All applications and submissions made through VFSC systems are subject to review and verification. VFSC may request additional information or documentation where necessary to complete its assessment. Depending on the completeness, accuracy, and compliance of the submission, applications may be approved, rejected, or delayed.
- Core Service Conditions
7.1 Company and Entity Registration
Applicants seeking to register companies or other entities must provide accurate and complete information relating to directors, shareholders, beneficial owners, and contact details. All applications are subject to approval by the Registrar. Once approved, the entity is formally recorded in the official register and relevant certificates are issued as evidence of registration.
7.2 Annual Return Obligations
Registered entities are required to submit annual returns within the prescribed statutory timeframes. Failure to comply with these obligations may result in penalties, enforcement actions, or removal of the entity from the register. Restoration may be possible but will require compliance with outstanding obligations and payment of applicable fees.
7.3 Business Name Registration
Any individual or entity operating under a name different from its legal name must register that business name with VFSC. Business names must not be misleading, identical, or otherwise unacceptable under regulatory standards. Registered businesses are required to maintain valid registration, display certificates where required, and comply with renewal obligations.
7.4 Charitable Associations
Charitable associations must operate strictly within their approved purposes, such as religious, educational, cultural, or social welfare activities. They are required to maintain proper records and submit periodic reports. Failure to comply with these obligations may result in penalties or dissolution.
7.5 Community Companies
Community companies must operate for defined community benefit purposes and comply with structural and governance requirements. They must not distribute profits to members and must maintain proper reporting and compliance obligations, including annual reporting to VFSC.
7.6 Financial Dealers Licensing (FDL)
No individual or entity may conduct securities or financial dealing activities without a valid VFSC license. Applicants must meet regulatory requirements, including demonstrating that they are fit and proper, disclosing ownership structures, and complying with AML/CFT obligations. Licensed entities are required to maintain records, notify VFSC of material changes, and comply with ongoing supervision, including inspections and enforcement actions where necessary.
7.7 Company and Trust Service Providers (CTSP)
Entities providing company or trust services must hold a valid VFSC license. License holders are required to maintain proper records, ensure adequate capital, comply with AML/CFT obligations, and adhere to all regulatory requirements. VFSC may conduct inspections and take enforcement action, including suspension or cancellation of licenses where non-compliance is identified.
- Registry Access and Data Management
Only authorized users are permitted to access and update registry information within VFSC systems. Users are responsible for maintaining accurate and up-to-date records for all registered entities. VFSC may verify user identity and supporting documentation to ensure data integrity and compliance.
- Third-Party Services
VFSC may rely on external systems and service providers to support the delivery of its services. VFSC is not responsible for the performance, availability, or security of such third-party systems.
- Intellectual Property
All content available on the VFSC website, including documents, data, and system outputs, remains the property of VFSC. Users are not permitted to reproduce, distribute, or use such content without prior written consent.
- Disclaimer
VFSC provides its services on an “as is” basis and does not guarantee that services will be uninterrupted, error-free, or fully accurate at all times.
- Limitation of Liability
VFSC shall not be held liable for any direct or indirect loss, damage, or disruption arising from the use of its systems, services, or information.
- Changes to Terms and Conditions
VFSC reserves the right to update or modify these Terms and Conditions at any time. Continued use of VFSC services constitutes acceptance of any changes.
- Acknowledgment
By using VFSC services and completing transactions, you confirm that you have read, understood, and agreed to these Terms and Conditions and the VFSC Cancellation and Refund Policy.