A Complete Guide to Company Registration in Hong Kong (2024)

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Business Registration in Hong Kong: A Comprehensive Guide - Air Corporate

Hong Kong is one of the world’s best places to start a business due to its low taxes, strong legal system, and ease of doing business. Whether you’re a local entrepreneur or a foreign investor, registering a company in Hong Kong is a straightforward process if you follow the right steps.

This guide covers everything you need to know about Hong Kong company registration, including requirements, costs, and post-registration compliance.


Why Register a Company in Hong Kong?

✅ Simple & Fast Incorporation (can be done in 1-3 days online)
✅ Low Corporate Tax Rate (8.25%–16.5% on profits)
✅ No Capital Gains Tax, VAT, or Sales Tax
✅ 100% Foreign Ownership Allowed
✅ Strong Legal System & Business-Friendly Policies


Hong Kong Company Registration: Step-by-Step Process

1. Choose Your Company Structure

The most common business types in Hong Kong:

  • Private Limited Company (Ltd) – Most popular for SMEs; limited liability protection.
  • Branch Office – For foreign companies expanding to HK.
  • Representative Office – For market research (cannot conduct business).
  • Sole Proprietorship / Partnership – Simple but no liability protection.

2. Select a Company Name

  • Must be unique (check via Hong Kong Companies Registry).
  • Can be in English, Chinese, or both.
  • Avoid restricted words (e.g., “Bank,” “Trust,” “Government”).

3. Prepare Required Documents

  • For Local Directors/Shareholders:
    • HK ID card or passport copy
    • Proof of address (utility bill/bank statement)
  • For Foreign Directors/Shareholders:
    • Passport copy (notarized if required)
    • Proof of overseas address (e.g., bank statement)
  • Company Secretary (mandatory in HK; can be an individual or corporate entity).

4. Submit Incorporation to Companies Registry

File Form NNC1 (for private companies) or NNC1G (for non-private companies) with:

  • Company name
  • Registered address (must be a HK physical address, not a PO Box)
  • Business nature (choose from HK’s SIC codes)
  • Share capital details (minimum HKD 1)
  • Director & shareholder details

5. Obtain Business Registration Certificate (BR)

After approval (usually 1-3 days), you’ll receive:

  • Certificate of Incorporation
  • Business Registration Certificate (BR) – Must be renewed annually.

6. Open a Corporate Bank Account

Most banks require:

  • Certificate of Incorporation
  • Business Registration Certificate
  • Company chop (seal)
  • Directors’ & shareholders’ IDs
  • Proof of business (e.g., invoices, contracts)

Popular banks: HSBC, Standard Chartered, Bank of China, virtual banks like Airwallex & Neat.

7. Register for Taxes (If Applicable)

  • Profits Tax (8.25%–16.5%) – File annually with the Inland Revenue Department (IRD).
  • Employer’s Return – Required if hiring staff.
  • GST/VAT – Not applicable in Hong Kong.

Costs of Registering a Company in Hong Kong

ItemCost (HKD)
Company RegistrationHKD 1,720 (e-filing)
Business Registration (1-year)HKD 2,250
Company Secretary (annual)HKD 1,500–5,000
Registered Address (annual)HKD 1,000–5,000
Total Estimated CostHKD 6,500–15,000

Note: Costs vary based on service providers.


Post-Registration Compliance

✔ Annual Renewal – Business Registration (BR) must be renewed yearly.
✔ Annual Return – File with Companies Registry (HKD 105).
✔ Audit & Tax Filing – Submit audited financials to IRD (if revenue > HKD 2M).
✔ Company Secretary – Must maintain one at all times.


FAQs on Hong Kong Company Registration

1. Can a foreigner register a company in Hong Kong?

✅ Yes! No residency requirement for directors/shareholders.

2. Do I need a local Hong Kong address?

✅ Yes, but you can use a registered office service.

3. How long does it take to register a company?

⏳ 1-3 days (online), 7-10 days (with bank account setup).

4. Is a physical office required?

❌ No, but you must provide a registered address.

5. Can I register a company remotely?

✅ Yes, through a trusted corporate service provider.


Conclusion

Hong Kong offers one of the fastest and most business-friendly company registration processes in Asia. With low taxes, minimal bureaucracy, and strong legal protections, it’s an ideal hub for startups and multinationals alike.

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