Private Limited Company

A Private Limited Company in Hong Kong is a separate legal entity incorporated under the Companies Ordinance (Cap. 622). This type of business structure offers limited liability protection to its shareholders, meaning their personal assets are protected from the company’s debts and liabilities. The company exists independently of its owners, can enter contracts, own assets, sue, and be sued in its own name. A Private Limited Company Hong Kong is the most popular business structure for entrepreneurs, startups, and foreign investors due to its credibility, ease of registration, and favorable tax system.
Hong Kong’s business-friendly environment makes it simple to set up and operate a Private Limited Company, with minimal restrictions on foreign ownership. According to the Hong Kong Companies Registry, over 1.3 million companies are currently registered in the city, and the majority are private limited companies.

Any individual or corporate entity whether local or foreign can register a Private Limited Company in Hong Kong. There is no restriction on nationality or residency status, making Hong Kong an attractive destination for international business owners and investors. The only requirements are that the company must have at least one director who is a natural person (individual), a registered office address in Hong Kong, and a designated company secretary.
Foreigners are not required to live in Hong Kong to set up a company, and they can be the sole shareholder and director. However, hiring a professional firm like Themis Partner can ensure compliance and streamline the incorporation process.

Registering a Private Limited Company in Hong Kong involves a series of straightforward steps. First, choose a unique company name and check its availability via the Companies Registry’s Cyber Search Centre. Next, prepare the Articles of Association and complete the Incorporation Form (NNC1 for companies limited by shares). You must then submit the application online via the e-Registry or deliver it in hard copy to the Companies Registry.
Upon approval, the Companies Registry will issue the Certificate of Incorporation and the Business Registration Certificate issued by the Inland Revenue Department. These documents confirm your company is legally established and can commence operations.
Professional assistance ensures compliance with Hong Kong’s legal and regulatory requirements, especially for foreign investors unfamiliar with local processes.

To register a Private Limited Company in Hong Kong, several documents must be prepared and submitted. These include:
A completed Incorporation Form (NNC1)
A copy of the company’s Articles of Association
Identification documents (passports or Hong Kong ID cards) of all directors and shareholders
Proof of registered office address in Hong Kong
Consent to act as a director
Details of the company secretary and share capital structure
Corporate shareholders must provide a certified copy of their certificate of incorporation and a board resolution approving the investment.

The timeline for Private Limited Company registration in Hong Kong is relatively short. If submitted online via the e-Registry, the process is usually completed within one business day. For hard-copy submissions, it typically takes 4-7 working days. However, this timeline may vary depending on the accuracy of your documents and whether you are using professional incorporation services.
Delays may occur if there are discrepancies or missing information in the application, so it is highly recommended to work with a reliable service provider to ensure a smooth and efficient registration.

The total cost to register a Private Limited Company in Hong Kong includes government fees and optional professional service fees. Below is a summary of the key charges.

Hiring a professional firm such as Themis Partner offers bundled packages that include name checks, document preparation, company secretary services, and registered address setup. These packages start around HKD 6,000 and help save time and avoid compliance errors.

One of the biggest advantages of setting up a Private Limited Company in Hong Kong is the low and straightforward tax regime. The city operates on a territorial basis, meaning only income sourced within Hong Kong is taxable. The corporate profits tax rates are:
8.25% on the first HKD 2 million in profits
16.5% on profits above HKD 2 million
There is no VAT, no capital gains tax, no withholding tax on dividends or interest, and no estate duty. Companies are required to file an annual tax return with the Inland Revenue Department, accompanied by audited financial statements.

Yes, foreigners can register a Private Limited Company in Hong Kong remotely without physically visiting the city. The entire process from name reservation and document preparation to company registration and bank account application can be handled online with the help of a local professional services firm.
However, opening a corporate bank account may require the director(s) to be present for identity verification, depending on the bank’s internal policies. Some banks may offer video conferencing alternatives, especially for clients using corporate service providers with established relationships.
Themis Partner provides end-to-end support for foreign entrepreneurs, including remote registration, document digitalization, and coordination with Hong Kong banks for seamless business setup.

Incorporating a Private Limited Company in Hong Kong offers significant advantages for both local and foreign entrepreneurs. The process is fast, cost-effective, and supported by a transparent legal framework and attractive tax policies. Whether you are launching a startup, expanding internationally, or managing cross-border operations, Hong Kong remains one of the most business-friendly jurisdictions in the world. For reliable and efficient company registration services, legal compliance, and ongoing corporate support, trust Themis Partner to guide you every step of the way. Contact us today to begin your company registration journey with expert legal support.