"Offshore" may be defined broadly as any jurisdiction overseas from the "local" or "domestic" client domicile. Thus, to some, England may be an "offshore" base. However the narrower definition in common use refers to (typically) a low or nil tax jurisdiction providing a legislative environment and financial services to facilitate personal, corporate and inter-Governmental international and (increasingly) global business. In plain words, an efficient global marketplace.

The content of this article is intended to provide a general guide to the subject matter. Specialist advice should be sought for your specific circumstances.