At least once in 3 years, and whenever the Commissioner determines it to be prudent, the Commissioner or the Commissioner's examiner shall personally visit each captive insurance company and thoroughly inspect and examine its affairs to ascertain its financial condition, its ability to fulfill its obligations and its compliance with the provisions of this chapter. The Commissioner may enlarge the aforesaid 3-year period to 5 years, provided said captive insurance company is subject to a comprehensive annual audit during such period of a scope satisfactory to the Commissioner by independent auditors approved by the Commissioner. The expenses and charges of the examination shall be paid to this State by the company or companies examined.