Foreign companies opening in Israel
Before beginning any form of Israeli operations. foreign companies opening in Israel face the dilemma of how to structure their business:
– to establish an Israeli registered subsidiary, or
– to open an Israeli resident “branch” of their foreign company
In this short article, we will briefly review the range of considerations and differences that should be considered by a foreign company opening in Israel.
Legal Considerations Branch
In general, a branch is a business representation of the foreign company, through which the foreign company can operate and conduct its business in Israel.
The branch does not have any separate legal personality from the foreign entity which owns it. Therefore, a foreign company operating in Israel through a branch may find itself, as a defendant in respect of the branch’s debts (arising from operations in Israel). As a rule, the foreign company will be directly liable for all the debts of the branch in Israel (to creditors / tax authorities, etc.). This is because there is no legal separation between the Israeli activities and the foreign entity.
Subsidiary
On the other hand, a subsidiary constitutes a separate legal entity whose shareholder is the foreign company. So, as a rule, the risk borne by the foreign company is limited to the amount of its investment in the subsidiary.
This rule is withdrawn, when actions are taken between the subsidiary and the parent company that may cause the court in Israel to ignore such separation. Asa result, they would “lift” the veil of incorporation of the subsidiary, thereby allowing its creditors to approach the parent company . However, Israeli courts rarely override the veil of incorporation and to do so, would require significant justification.
Additionally, incorporating as a subsidiary in Israel, i.e. creating a separate entity, also allows for greater flexibility. For example, with changes of ownership, when bringing in a new partner exclusively for the Israeli activities, or in the event of selling the Israeli business (the shares of the subsidiary can be sold)
What’s better from a legal perspective?
In summary, in terms of the legal implications alone – it is usually more beneficial to incorporate in Israel as a local subsidiary than to operate as a branch.
Note
There may be situations in which the Israeli activity is only a “marketing representative” or “storage facility”. In some cases the foreign company may not be required to register in Israel. Only activities which would constitute a “permanent establishment” would require a company to register in Israel.
Tax Considerations
Subsidiary
An Israeli subsidiary of a foreign entity is liable to Israeli Corporation Tax at the standard rates (unless investing in an approved investment scheme).
In addition, if the subsidiary decides to distribute a dividend, it will generally be liable to pay dividend tax (usually deducted at source), at the following rates depending on the recipient:
– Individual: 25% (30% for controlling shareholders – 10% or more)
– Israeli Company: 0% (subject to conditions)
– Foreign company (in a jurisdiction with a tax treaty): in accordance with the relevant treaty (for example – Russia – 10%, USA – 12.5 % Under certain conditions, etc.).
– Foreign Company (in a jurisdiction with no treaty): 25% (30% for controlling shareholders – 10% or more)
Branch
On the other hand, an Israeli branch of a foreign company is only liable to tax in Israel on its Israeli profits at the corporate tax rate (i.e. 23%). However, distribution of those profits to the parent company are not subject to Israeli taxation as they aren’t treated as a dividends.
Getting set-up in Israel
Registrar of Companies
Section 346 of the Companies Law requires every foreign corporation whose business activity is in Israel to register with the Registrar of Companies as a foreign corporation operating in Israel.
In addition, business activity in Israel requires the opening of files and registration with the tax authorities in Israel (VAT, income tax, social security, and income tax deductions), even before the commencement of such business activity.
In general, establishing an Israeli company is a simple and quick procedure in Israel, while registering a branch of a foreign company in Israel may be slower and more complex.
Banking
The procedure for opening a bank account in Israel for a branch of foreign companies opening in Israel, can be more complex than opening a bank account for a local Israeli company and the choices of banking may be restricted.
Note
It should be emphasized that it is difficult to register and open files with the tax authorities before the company opens a bank account in Israel.
Appointment of a “representative” for tax purposes
VAT -Section 60 of the Value Added Tax Law, 5736-1975 deals with the appointment of a local representative by non-residents conducting business in Israel, through foreign corporations. Pursuant to section 60, a foreign dealer is obliged to notify the Israeli VAT Office, within 30 days of the commencement of his business activity in Israel and of the name of his local representative.
Section 60 stipulates that a representative who has been appointed – is fully liable for all matters relating VAT for the foreign resident. It is important to recognize the scope of this responsibility placed on a representative.
Other Taxes -Section 68B of the Income Tax Ordinance stipulates that a foreign resident is also required to appoint a representative for tax purposes. The representative will have the power of attorney to submit the tax reports, to receive funds for the foreign resident, and to handle any matter required by law, in Israel.
In conclusion
In terms of tax considerations, it will likely be more tax efficient for foreign companies opening in Israel to operate through a branch rather than a subsidiary. On the other hand, in terms of efficiency, simplicity and legal protection, operating through the establishment of a subsidiary would be a better choice.
The above should not be construed as a recommendation and / or opinion. It is recommended to obtain personalized professional advice. We will be happy to be at your disposal for any questions and / or clarifications in this matter and in general.