Hong Kong Company Registration
Incorporation package includes
- Incorporation of a Hong Kong Company
- Hong Kong Government Registration Fees
- Registered Office for 1 Year
- Registered Agent for 1 Year
- Corporate Company Seal
- Business Registration Certificate
- Memorandum & Articles of Association
- Statutory Book
- Share Certificate Book
Why form a company in Hong Kong?
Strategic Location
Positioned as a gateway to China and Asia, Hong Kong provides easy access to major markets in the region.
Low and Simple Tax System
Hong Kong offers a low corporate tax rate (from 8.25%) on assessable profits that arising in or derived from Hong Kong and tax exemptions on profits that are sourced outside. There is no VAT, no estate duty, no capital gains tax, or withholding tax on dividends.
Global Financial Center
Hong Kong is a leading financial hub with a robust banking system, making it an ideal location for businesses involved in international trade, finance, or investment.
Ease of Business Operations
Hong Kong provides a straightforward regulatory environment with minimal bureaucracy, making it quick and easy to start and operate a business.
Confidentiality & Privacy
Hong Kong offers privacy for business owners, with no public disclosure of shareholders and limited requirements for director details.
Enjoy Hong Kong's tax benefits
Territorial Tax System
Hong Kong levies Profits Tax only on profits that are "arising in or derived from Hong Kong." Profits sourced outside Hong Kong are not taxable in Hong Kong (subject to specific anti-avoidance rules and tax authority assessment).
Low Corporate Tax Rate
Profits generated in Hong Kong are taxed at 16.5%, with preferential rates on the first HKD 2 million.
No VAT/GST
Hong Kong does not impose VAT or GST, enhancing cost efficiency.
No Withholding Tax
There is no withholding tax on dividends, interest, or royalties.
Foreign Income Exemption
Income sourced outside of Hong Kong is tax-exempt.
Delivery timeline
The company formation process in Hong Kong is efficient and typically takes 5-7 business days. Here’s the breakdown:
Pre-Incorporation
Select your company name and prepare the required documents.
Company Registration
Submit the necessary documents to the Hong Kong Companies Registry for incorporation.
Issuance of Certificate & Documents
Receive the Certificate of Incorporation and Business Registration Certificate.
Post-Incorporation
Finalize services such as opening a corporate bank account, appointing a company secretary, or completing other registrations.
Required documents
Once we receive the required documents, we can proceed with the incorporation process swiftly and efficiently. To form a company in Hong Kong, the following documents are required:
Company Name
The English name must end with “Limited” (not “Ltd,” “Inc,” etc.) and the Chinese name (if used) must end with “有限公司”.
Director/Shareholder
Minimum requirements: 01 Director (can be non-resident, any nationality) and 01 Shareholder (can be non-resident, can be the same person as the director). Corporate Shareholders are permitted. However, a Corporate Director is only permitted if the company has at least one natural person (individual) as a director. Please contact us for further instructions on corporate structures.
Company Secretary
The Company Secretary is a mandatory role. It must be either: 1) a Hong Kong resident individual, OR 2) a body corporate with its registered office in Hong Kong that holds a valid Trust or Company Service Provider (TCSP) license.
DayOne Formations has included this in the package for you.
Registered Address
Must be a physical address in Hong Kong, not a P.O. Box. (can be provided by DayOne Formations).
Business Activities
A brief description of the company’s business activities and selection of an activity code. We can provide you with a template for this.
Minimum Capital
There is no minimum capital requirement under the Companies Ordinance. The company must issue at least one share.
Frequently asked questions
Find answers to common questions about our services and the company formation process. We’re here to provide clarity and support for your business journey.
What are the requirements to set up a company in Hong Kong?
To set up a company in Hong Kong, you need at least one director and one shareholder, who can be individuals or corporate entities. The director and shareholder can be of any nationality and don’t need to reside in Hong Kong.
Additionally, a registered address in Hong Kong is required, along with the appointment of a local company secretary.
Which is the most popular legal entity in Hong Kong?
The Private Limited Company (Ltd) is the most popular legal entity in Hong Kong. It is favored for its:
- Limited liability for shareholders
- Separate legal entity status
- Tax efficiency
- Global credibility and ease of doing business
How is the name of the offshore company proposed?
When proposing a name for an offshore company in Hong Kong:
- Ensure uniqueness: The name must not conflict with any existing registered companies
- Comply with regulations: Avoid restricted words like “Bank,” “Trust,” or “Insurance,” which require special approval
- Language options: Names can be in English, Chinese, or a combination of both
- Reserve the name: Check availability through the Company Registry and reserve the name if needed
Can I open an account without going to Hong Kong?
Yes, many banks in Hong Kong offer remote account-opening services, particularly for offshore or foreign-owned companies. However, requirements vary:
- Traditional Banks: Some banks may require a representative to visit for due diligence, but exceptions exist
- Virtual Banks: Several virtual or online banks offer fully remote account setup
- Third-party Assistance: Firms like DayOne Formations can assist with introductions to banks that facilitate remote account opening
Keep in mind, compliance with due diligence and Know Your Customer (KYC) requirements is mandatory regardless of the method.
What are the continuing compliance requirements of a Hong Kong company? What if I fail to meet those requirements?
Key compliance requirements include:
- Annual Returns: File annual returns with the Companies Registry (form NAR1)
- Business Registration: Renew the Business Registration Certificate annually
- Accounting and Auditing: Maintain proper financial records and have them audited by a Certified Public Accountant (CPA)
- Tax Filings: Submit profits tax returns annually to the Inland Revenue Department (IRD)
- Significant Controllers Register (SCR): Maintain and update details of significant controllers
- Director and Shareholder Meetings: Hold annual general meetings (if applicable)
Failure to comply may result in:
- Financial penalties
- Prosecution
- Possible de-registration or strike-off of the company