Set Up a Business / Company in Hong Kong

Setting up a business in Hong Kong is a straightforward process, but it involves several key requirements that must be met. Below are the essential steps and requirements:

1. Choose Your Company Structure

You need to decide on the type of legal entity for your business. The most common structures include:

  • Private Limited Company: Most popular due to limited liability.
  • Join Venture Company: private Limited company holding by more than 2 shareholders, most popular due to limited liability.
  • Sole Proprietorship: Owned by one individual, with personal liability.
  • Partnership: Owned by two or more individuals, each partner with personal liability.

2. Appoint Key Personnel / Management team

You must appoint certain key personnel for your company:

  • Director(s): At least one director is required; they can be of any nationality and do not need to reside in Hong Kong.
  • Company Secretary: A local company secretary is mandatory; they must either be an individual resident in Hong Kong or a corporate entity registered in Hong Kong.
  • Shareholder(s): A minimum of one shareholder is required, with no maximum limit for private companies.

3. Choose a Company Name

Your company name must comply with specific regulations:

  • It should not be identical or similar to existing company names.
  • If in English, it must end with “Limited”; if in Chinese, it must end with “有限公司”.

4. Registered Address

You need a physical address in Hong Kong as your company’s registered office. This cannot be a P.O. Box. Company secretary/agent can provide such registry address service.

5. Prepare Incorporation Documents

The following documents are typically required for incorporation:

  • Completed NNC1 Form and relevant docs (for companies limited by shares).
  • Identification documents of directors and shareholders (Hong Kong ID cards for residents and passports for foreigners).
  • Resident address proof documents of directors and shareholders (bank statements or utilities bills, issue within 2 months).
  • Articles of Association outlining the internal governance rules.

6. Submit Application

You can submit your application by a secretary agent, by mail, or in person at the Companies Registry along with the necessary fees.

7. Pay Government Fees

At the time of submission, you will need to pay applicable government fees related to incorporation and business registration.

8. Obtain Business Registration Certificate

After successful incorporation, you will receive a Certificate of Incorporation, and a Business Registration Certificate (BRC), which are mandatory for operating legally in Hong Kong.

9. Additional Licenses and Permits (if applicable)

Depending on your business activities, you may require specific licenses or permits (e.g., food service licenses for restaurants).

10. Comply with Ongoing Requirements

Once established, ensure compliance with annual filing requirements and tax obligations through the Inland Revenue Department.