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

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

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.