Marshall Islands — Tax Guide, Residency & Cost of Living for Expats
Oceania
Tax Score
70/100TerritorialTax Data
Residency & Visas
Cost of Living & Quality of Life
Tax Overview
Marshall Islands combines a territorial system with low rates, creating a highly favorable tax environment where foreign income is exempt and local rates are minimal.
Personal Income Tax
Personal income tax in Marshall Islands ranges from 8% – 12% progressively. Even the top rate is moderate by international standards.
Corporate & Capital Gains
The corporate tax rate is 3%, highly competitive globally. There is no capital gains tax — ideal for investors.
Indirect Taxes & Wealth
VAT/GST is 0%, low by international standards.
Crypto & Digital Assets
Marshall Islands takes a standard approach to crypto taxation (score 3/5). Gains are generally treated as capital gains or ordinary income.
Residency Guide
Relocating to Marshall Islands is possible but with limited options. Visa options are more limited, but residency is achievable through standard pathways.
Visa Options
Marshall Islands does not currently offer a digital nomad visa or golden visa. Foreigners can explore work, investment, or family reunification visas.
Practical Considerations
As a non-LATAM destination, applicants should consider potential language barriers and cultural differences. Working with a local immigration attorney and verifying apostille/legalization requirements for documents is recommended.
Also consider: Vanuatu, United Arab Emirates, Cayman Islands
Lifestyle
Marshall Islands offers a low cost of living, enabling a comfortable lifestyle on a moderate budget.
Cost of Living
With an index of 38 (reference: 100 = New York City), Marshall Islands is significantly cheaper than major world cities. An expat can live comfortably at a fraction of what it would cost in the US or Western Europe.
Safety & Infrastructure
A safety score of 6/10 indicates a generally safe environment, with normal precautions recommended. Internet speed of 5 Mbps — may be limiting for video calls and intensive remote work.
Healthcare
A healthcare score of 3/10 indicates significant healthcare system challenges. Comprehensive private insurance is essential.
Pros & Cons
Pros
- Territorial tax system — foreign income exempt
- No capital gains tax
- Very low cost of living (index 38)
- Excellent value: affordable and safe
Cons
- Limited healthcare system (3/10)
- Slow internet (5 Mbps)
Frequently Asked Questions
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About this guide
Researched and maintained by the TuLugar team, based in Asunción, Paraguay.
Data sourced from PwC, Numbeo, UNDP, and Ookla.
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