Starting Your Business in Hong Kong is Now Easier Than Ever.
InCorp Hong Kong makes the whole company registration process in Hong Kong a breeze. Our business experts will guide you through each process step, including accounting and finance paperwork, giving you peace of mind and the confidence to kickstart your business.
Why Register a Business in Hong Kong?
Hong Kong is recognised as a leading trading and service hub, providing exceptional access to Mainland China’s market. Its independent trade policies make it an optimal base for local businesses, foreign entrepreneurs and multinational corporations.
The region’s economy consistently ranks highly in global economic freedom, attracting international investors with a supportive business environment bolstered by government initiatives These factors collectively establish Hong Kong as an attractive location for launching and expanding business operations in Asia.
Benefits of Starting a Business in Hong Kong
Strategic Location
Recognized as a leading financial hub, Hong Kong offers sophisticated banking services, including multi-currency accounts, that cater to international business needs. Its strategic location near mainland China and other key Asian economies ensures convenient access to vast markets, making it an ideal base for expansion.
Tax Benefits
Hong Kong boasts a favorable tax regime with a corporate tax rate capped at 16.5%, alongside exemptions from VAT, dividend, and sales taxes. Furthermore, businesses benefit from a reduced tax rate of 8.25% on the first HKD 2 million of profits, enhancing profitability and financial efficiency.
Ease of Setting Up
The region supports 100% foreign ownership and features an expedited registration process that can be completed in just 48 hours. This streamlined approach facilitates a quick and efficient start for businesses eager to enter the market.
Requirements for Starting a Company in Hong Kong
Minimum 1 Shareholder
1 Director
1 Company Secretary
Local Registered Office
HKD 1 Paid-up Capital
In Hong Kong, companies are required to establish a registered office within the territory. A company must appoint a secretary who can either be a natural person residing in Hong Kong or a corporate body with a registered office or business location in Hong Kong.
Additionally, there must be at least one director who is a natural person, although they do not need to be a resident. It is important to note that if there is only one director, they cannot also serve as the company secretary.
Shareholders of a Hong Kong company are not required to be residents, and the director can also hold the position of sole shareholder. To enhance corporate transparency, companies must also maintain an up-to-date Significant Controllers Register, which should be readily accessible for law enforcement inspections to clarify beneficial ownership.
How To Set Up A Company in Hong Kong in Five Easy Steps
We detail the step‑by‑step procedure for company formation in Hong Kong below.
Starting a business in Hong Kong starts with selecting a suitable name, available in Chinese, English, or both, adhering to specific linguistic and legal guidelines. Ensure the name is not trademarked and consider registering it as a trademark for protection.
Should your business name be in English, it must conclude with “Limited.” In the case of a Chinese name, it must be articulated using traditional characters and terminate with “有限公司.”
It’s important to note that selecting a name deemed unregistrable by the Companies Registry could lead to the rejection of your application, impacting your Hong Kong company registration process.
Once you grasp the registration requirements, you can explore the various business structures that Hong Kong offers to find the best fit for your entrepreneurial vision.
Each of these structures presents unique advantages and disadvantages, depending on the nature of your business plans and personal preferences. A well-crafted business profile can help you make the right decision.
The preferred business structure for SMEs in Hong Kong is the Private Limited Company, which provides limited liability to its shareholders among other substantial benefits.
| Registration Rules | Advantages | Disadvantages |
|---|---|---|
|
|
|
A sole proprietorship is the most straightforward business structure in Hong Kong, involving a single owner who manages all financial responsibilities, including profits and losses. Transferring ownership is as simple as selling the business assets.
| Advantages |
|---|
|
Hong Kong
Transitioning from a sole proprietorship, forming a partnership in Hong Kong allows two to twenty individuals to share profits and responsibilities. If the number exceeds twenty, the entity must be registered as a company.
| Types of Partnerships | Advantages | Disadvantages |
|---|---|---|
|
|
|
Once the company’s name and structure are determined, you can proceed with filing an application for company incorporation, which includes applying for a business registration certificate simultaneously. The necessary documents for this application are:
- Incorporation Form (Form NNC1 for a company limited by shares)
- A copy of the company’s Articles of Association
- A Notice to Business Registration Office (IRBR1)
These applications can be submitted in several ways: online through the e-Registry portal available 24/7, via the “CR eFiling” mobile app, or in person by delivering the documents in hard copy to the Companies Registry along with the required fees.
In line with Hong Kong’s commitment to efficiency in business processes, online applications for company incorporation are typically processed within 24 hours. Applications submitted via hard copy usually take about seven working days to process.
While many businesses operate without specific permits, certain industries require various licenses based on their activities.
For example, to open a restaurant, you must obtain a General Restaurant Licence, a Provisional General Restaurant Licence, and a Liquor Licence, all issued by the Food and Environmental Hygiene Department.
To determine the exact licenses, permits, certificates, and approvals necessary for your business, it is recommended to consult the Trade and Industry Department’s website.
The procedure for opening a corporate bank account in Hong Kong is similar to that in other regions but includes some specific steps. It is crucial to have your company fully operational and demonstrate a viable business model to ensure the bank trusts the stability and prospects of your venture.
You must provide detailed evidence of your company’s potential, such as financial records, online presence, and projected profits.
Required documentation typically includes proof of business operations, registration certificates, and a completed application form for the bank of your choice.
InCorp Hong Kong, Your Premier Choice for Seamless Business Formation
Leverage InCorp’s expertise in company incorporation, accounting, bookkeeping, and payroll to elevate your business.
Our team is dedicated to providing the guidance and support needed to streamline your operations, allowing you to concentrate on business expansion.
Here’s why InCorp Hong Kong should be your first choice:
Quick and Efficient Incorporation
Fast-track your business setup with InCorp Hong Kong’s straightforward incorporation process.
Guaranteed Pricing Transparency
With InCorp Hong Kong, what you see is what you get. Our clear pricing policy ensures that you only pay for what you need, with zero surprises.
End-to-End Business Support
InCorp offers complete assistance from the moment of incorporation, providing peace of mind as you concentrate on business development.
We Know Hong Kong
Access InCorp Hong Kong’s local team of industry specialists for bespoke accounting and business solutions that simplify your operations and enhance growth potential.
Kickstart Your
Hong Kong Business Journey in 5 Easy Steps
-
Initial Consultation
Reach out to us to arrange a consultation with one of our expert InCorp business consultants. This meeting is designed to gain a deeper understanding of your specific business needs.
-
Company Name Registration and Trademark Protection
Our services include checking the availability of your company name, registering it, and securing trademark protection for your logo to ensure your brand’s unique identity is legally protected.
-
Company Structure Alignment
We will help align your business type with the appropriate company structure in accordance with the guidelines set by The Companies Registry (Hong Kong). Our team will also assist with the necessary documentation.
-
Bank Account Setup
We collaborate with local banks and digital financial institutions to streamline the process of opening your business bank account, ensuring it is hassle-free.
-
Comprehensive Business Solutions
We offer integrated business solutions, including corporate secretarial services, a registered office address, accounting, bookkeeping, HR payroll, and taxation services, to support every aspect of your business operations.
Here’s what our customers have to say
“We have been sharing a successful professional relationship with InCorp for almost 20 years now. We are quite satisfied with their entire team in-terms of due diligence, timely assistance and follow-up. We would definitely recommend their services to our other business associates.”
“Great team and work they are doing in InCorp. Over the years I’ve dealt with several professional services firms, but so far InCorp is by far the most efficient, and pleasant experience.”
15,000+
Clients Worldwide
1,200+
Professional Staff
30+
Years Track Record
20+
Global Partners
Frequently Asked Questions
What are the advantages of incorporating my business in Hong Kong?
- Hong Kong is a leading centre in the Asia Pacific region, renowned for its strong trademark IP protection, attractive corporate tax structure, superior connectivity, and strategic proximity to burgeoning markets. This makes it an excellent locale for forming a company, launching a subsidiary, or establishing a branch or representative office in Asia.
- Incorporating your company in Hong Kong through InCorp is a smooth and straightforward process, guided by our dedicated team of experts. Benefiting from Hong Kong's progressive policies to boost local investments, the incorporation procedure has been refined to be efficient and free from complications. Reach out to us today to get started.
- InCorp streamlines incorporating a new company or registering your business in Hong Kong. Our team of seasoned business experts guides through each phase, guaranteeing a smooth, stress-free, and successful experience. We manage all accounting and financial documentation, allowing businesses to concentrate on growth and operational achievements.
- Yes, foreigners are permitted to own 100% of a company in Hong Kong, allowing you to register a company there as a non-resident.
