Company registration in Hong Kong. We register your company within a week. Starting price at HKD 300. Experienced lawyers. Accounting and visa services. No hidden fees.
Learn more about Company Registration in Hong Kong
Setting up a company in Hong Kong is a streamlined and strategic choice for both local and international entrepreneurs due to its transparent regulatory system and business-friendly tax regime. Businesses can choose from several common structures, with the Private Limited Company being the most popular for its limited liability and operational flexibility. Company formation involves registering with the Companies Registry, obtaining a Business Registration Certificate from the Inland Revenue Department, and setting up a corporate bank account. While the process is efficient, compliance with statutory requirements such as appointing a company secretary, maintaining proper records, and filing annual returns is essential. Foreign investors must also ensure proper structuring to meet immigration and banking regulations. Themis Partner provides comprehensive legal support for company incorporation in Hong Kong, from selecting the ideal structure to managing post-registration compliance. Contact us to set up your Hong Kong company with confidence and ease.
What are the main types of business entities in Hong Kong?
When it comes to company formation in Hong Kong, business owners can choose from several legal structures depending on their goals, ownership model, and operational scope. The most common types include:
Business Structures Recognized by Hong Kong Law
➤ Private Limited Company: This is the most popular form of business entity in Hong Kong due to its limited liability protection, separate legal identity, and ease of transferability. It allows both local and foreign shareholders and is ideal for startups, SMEs, and multinational firms alike.
➤ Sole Proprietorship: A simpler structure suitable for small local businesses. It has fewer compliance requirements but does not offer liability protection.
➤ Partnership: A business run by two or more individuals. Like sole proprietorships, partnerships don’t offer limited liability, and partners are personally responsible for the company’s debts.
➤ Branch Office or Representative Office: For foreign companies expanding into Hong Kong. A branch is part of the parent company and must comply with local business laws, while a representative office is limited to non-commercial activities such as market research.
ℹ️ For international entrepreneurs, the Private Limited Company offers optimal protection and eligibility for tax benefits under the two-tiered profits tax regime.
How do I register a Private Limited Company in Hong Kong?
Private Limited Company registration in Hong Kong is conducted through the Companies Registry. The process is designed to be fast and can be completed within a few business days. Here’s how to do it:
1. Company Name Approval and Application Submission
You must first select a unique name and ensure it’s not already taken or infringing on existing trademarks. The name can be in English, Chinese, or both. You can check availability through the Company Name Search at the Hong Kong Companies Registry. Once the name is approved, submit your application for incorporation, which includes:
➤ Form NNC1 (Incorporation Form)
➤ Articles of Association
➤ Details of directors, shareholders, company secretary, and registered address
ℹ️ The application can be submitted online through the e-Registry portal or in person at the Companies Registry.
Alongside incorporation, you must obtain a Business Registration Certificate from the Inland Revenue Department (IRD). This can be processed simultaneously with your incorporation application. Once approved, you will receive a Certificate of Incorporation and a Business Registration Certificate, which officially allows you to operate your business in Hong Kong.
Remarks:
Your company secretary must be a Hong Kong resident or a registered corporate service provider. Themis Partner offers Company Secretary Services to ensure legal compliance.
Can foreigners own 100% of a company in Hong Kong?
Yes, one of the key advantages of setting up a company in Hong Kong is that foreigners can own 100% of the shares in a Private Limited Company.
Foreign Ownership Rights Under Hong Kong Law
There are no restrictions on nationality or residency, making Hong Kong one of the most open economies in the world for foreign entrepreneurs and investors.
Foreign business owners can also be the sole director and shareholder of the company. However, you must appoint at least one local company secretary, who can be an individual resident in Hong Kong or a licensed corporate service provider. You can review detailed rules on Company Officers and Requirements under the Companies Ordinance.
This openness to foreign ownership is one reason why Hong Kong ranks highly in ease-of-doing-business indexes globally.
ℹ️ If you intend to manage the company from within Hong Kong, you’ll need to apply for an Entrepreneur Visa or an Employment Visa. Themis Partner assists with end-to-end immigration processing. Please refer to our Visa Services for more information.
What documents are required to start a company in Hong Kong?
To begin the company registration process in Hong Kong, you must prepare the following documents.
Legal Documentation Checklist for Incorporation
➤ Valid passport/ID copy for each director and shareholder
➤ Proof of residential address (dated within 3 months)
➤ Articles of Association
➤ Incorporation Form NNC1
➤ Company name approval confirmation
➤ Consent to Act as Director (a statutory requirement)
➤ Appointment of company secretary
➤ Registered local business address
For corporate shareholders, additional documentation such as the company’s Certificate of Incorporation, board resolution approving investment, and identity of the authorized representative will be required. These documents should be accurate and up-to-date to avoid delays during the registration process.
Remarks:
All documents in a foreign language must be professionally translated into English or Chinese. Themis Partner ensures legal formatting and submission standards are met.
How long does it take to incorporate a company in Hong Kong?
The timeline for incorporating a company in Hong Kong is generally very fast. If all documents are correctly submitted, the Companies Registry typically processes applications within:
Company Incorporation Timeline & Legal Processing
➤ 1 working day for online submissions via the e-Registry
➤ 4–5 working days for paper submissions
The total time may vary depending on due diligence checks and whether additional clarification or documentation is needed. Once incorporated, you will receive the Certificate of Incorporation and Business Registration Certificate, and you can begin operations immediately.
Ensure all documents are fully compliant before submission to avoid delays. Pre-submission legal review services are included in Themis Partner’s Company Registration Packages.
What are the annual compliance requirements for companies?
Every Hong Kong company must meet annual statutory compliance obligations to remain in good legal standing. The main requirements include:
Legal and Statutory Filings in Hong Kong
➤ Annual Return Filing (Form NAR1) with the Companies Registry
➤ Business Registration CertificateRenewal each year with the Inland Revenue Department
➤ Annual General Meeting (AGM) and keeping updated company records
➤ Audited Financial Statements prepared by a certified CPA in Hong Kong
➤ Profits Tax Return (PTR) filing with the Inland Revenue Department
Appointing a qualified accountant for Accounting & Audit Services is critical. Failure to comply can result in penalties and legal prosecution.
What are the tax rates and obligations for companies in Hong Kong?
Corporate tax in Hong Kong is simple and competitive. The city adopts a territorial tax system, meaning only income derived from or earned in Hong Kong is subject to taxation. Offshore income is generally not taxed.
Profits Tax Rates
➤ 8.25% on the first HKD 2 million of assessable profits
➤ 16.5% on profits above HKD 2 million
There is no VAT, capital gains tax, withholding tax, or sales tax, making Hong Kong highly attractive for international entrepreneurs and holding companies. Refer to the IRD’s Corporate Tax Guide for current rates and regulations.
All companies must maintain proper books of accounts and submit audited financial statements annually as part of the Profits Tax Return. You can learn more from the Hong Kong Inland Revenue Department.
ℹ️ Maintain clear documentation to prove offshore profits if you plan to claim tax exemption. Themis Partner provides tailored tax advisory services to structure your income for optimal compliance.
Do I need a local address to register a company in Hong Kong?
Yes, every business must provide a registered office address in Hong Kong when applying for company incorporation. This address must be a physical location where official correspondence and government notices can be delivered – P.O. boxes are not allowed.
Registered Office Requirement
Foreign business owners who do not have an office in Hong Kong can use the address of a licensed corporate service provider or law firm such as Themis Partner. This satisfies the legal requirement and ensures that your company can receive official documents on time.
If you’re looking for a premium business address for your company registration, we can provide address services that meet the statutory requirements.
Can I open a corporate bank account in Hong Kong remotely?
Opening a corporate bank account in Hong Kong can be one of the more challenging aspects of starting a business due to the stringent Know-Your-Customer (KYC) and anti-money laundering policies in place.
While some banks require in-person visits, many international banks and virtual banking platforms are now allowing remote account opening under specific conditions, especially for foreign-owned companies. These institutions may request video verification, detailed business plans, and proof of address.
Popular banks for corporate accounts in Hong Kong include HSBC, Standard Chartered, Bank of China (HK), and Hang Seng Bank. Digital alternatives like Airwallex, Statrys, and Neat are increasingly used for startups and SMEs due to their faster onboarding and global payment options.
To ensure smooth processing, work with a Legal Advisor who can assist with documentation and introduce your company to banks that align with your profile and business model.
Why Choose Themis Partner for Company Registration Hong Kong?
Company registration in Hong Kong remains one of the most efficient ways to launch a business in Asia. Its transparent legal framework, low tax burden, and pro-business environment make it an ideal base for global entrepreneurs, startups, and multinational companies alike. However, navigating the legal, compliance, and banking landscape requires careful planning and professional guidance.
At Themis Partner, we offer complete support for entrepreneurs and foreign investors looking to incorporate a business in Hong Kong. From choosing the best company structure to ensuring regulatory compliance and setting up a corporate bank account, our legal team is here to make your entry into the Hong Kong market seamless and successful. Contact us today to begin your company registration journey with expert legal support.
