Hong Kong remains one of the most business-friendly economies in Asia, known for its low tax rates, international reputation, and efficient corporate environment. Entrepreneurs from around the world continue to choose Hong Kong as their base for regional expansion—and with the right guidance, registering a company there can be a smooth and fast process.
At HeySara, we help entrepreneurs, SMEs, and international businesses set up their Hong Kong companies effortlessly. In this comprehensive guide, you’ll learn the key steps, requirements, and considerations for registering a company in Hong Kong, along with expert insights to help you avoid common pitfalls.
Why Hong Kong Is an Ideal Place to Start a Business
Before diving into the process, here’s what makes Hong Kong such a compelling destination for incorporation:
1. World-Class Business Environment
Hong Kong consistently ranks among the top global business hubs, offering transparent regulations, an efficient legal system, and unfettered access to international markets.
2. Attractive Tax Policies
Hong Kong’s tax system is one of the most advantageous globally:
- Territorial tax regime (only Hong Kong-sourced profits are taxed)
- Corporate tax capped at 16.5%
- No VAT, capital gains tax, withholding tax, or GST
3. 100% Foreign Ownership
Foreigners can fully own a Hong Kong company without local partners.
4. No Minimum Capital Requirement
A Hong Kong company can start with just HKD 1.
5. Strategic Access to Mainland China
Hong Kong serves as a gateway to Mainland China while offering a more flexible regulatory and banking environment.
With these benefits, it’s no surprise that Hong Kong remains a top choice for entrepreneurs—and HeySara makes the incorporation journey even easier.
Step-by-Step Guide to Register a Company in Hong Kong
Step 1: Decide on Your Business Structure
Before registering your company, it’s important to choose the right business structure. The structure you select impacts taxation, liability, compliance requirements, and long-term scalability.
Main Types of Business Structures in Hong Kong
1. Sole Proprietorship
Owned and managed by a single individual.
Pros:
- Simple and low-cost setup
- Full control over decision-making
Cons:
- Unlimited personal liability
- Limited credibility and investment opportunities
Best for: Freelancers, consultants, or micro businesses testing the market.
2. Partnership
Formed by two or more individuals sharing profits and responsibilities.
Pros:
- Easy to set up
- Utilises multiple skill sets and resources
Cons:
- Partners share unlimited liability
- Potential for management conflicts
Best for: Professionals or co-founders launching a small business together.
3. Limited Company (Private Limited / “Ltd”)
The most popular and recommended structure in Hong Kong.
Pros:
- Limited liability protection
- Separate legal entity
- Higher credibility with banks and clients
- More tax-efficient
- Easier to raise funds and scale
Cons:
- Requires statutory filings and ongoing compliance
Best for: Startups, SMEs, international businesses, and entrepreneurs aiming to grow.
4. Branch Office
An extension of a foreign company operating in Hong Kong.
Pros:
- Operates under the same brand
- Faster than incorporating a subsidiary
Cons:
- No liability protection for the parent company
Best for: Established overseas companies expanding operations.
5. Representative Office
A non-commercial presence for foreign companies.
Pros:
- Low setup cost
- Minimal compliance
Cons:
- Cannot conduct business or generate revenue
Best for: Market research, liaison, and early-stage Hong Kong exploration.
Most entrepreneurs choose a Limited Company for its balance of liability protection, flexibility, and tax advantages. HeySara can help assess your goals and recommend the ideal structure.
Step 2: Choose a Company Name
Your company name must meet Hong Kong’s naming requirements:
- Can be in English, Chinese, or both
- English names must end with “Limited”
- Chinese names must end with “有限公司”
- Cannot mix English and Chinese in the same name
- Must not infringe trademarks
- Must be unique and available in the Companies Registry
HeySara assists with name checks to ensure your selected name meets all requirements.
Step 3: Define Your Company Structure
A Hong Kong Limited Company requires:
1. Directors
- Minimum of one natural person
- No nationality or residency requirement
2. Shareholders
- Minimum: 1, maximum: 50
- Individuals or corporate entities are allowed
3. Company Secretary
- Mandatory requirement
- Must be a Hong Kong resident or a licensed corporate service provider
4. Registered Office Address
- Must be a physical address in Hong Kong
- P.O. Boxes are not allowed
5. Share Capital
- No minimum requirement
- Common starting capital: HKD 10,000
Step 4: Prepare the Required Documents
You must prepare:
For Directors and Shareholders
- Passport copies
- Residential address proof
- KYC information
For Corporate Shareholders
- Certificate of Incorporation
- Business profile
- Board resolution approving the setup
Statutory Documents
- Articles of Association
- Incorporation Form (NNC1)
- Notices to the Business Registration Office (IRBR1)
HeySara can prepare all the incorporation documents for you.
Step 5: File For Incorporation
You can incorporate via the e-Filing Services under the “e-Services Portal” or in hard copy form to the Shroff on the 14th floor of the Queensway Government Offices:
Online (e-Registry)
- Fastest method
- Typically completed in 1–3 business days
Paper Submission
- Takes about 5–7 working days
After approval, you will receive:
- Certificate of Incorporation (CI)
- Business Registration Certificate (BRC)
Both electronic and printed versions are available.
Step 6: Open a Corporate Bank Account
Opening a bank account in Hong Kong can be challenging due to strict KYC requirements. Required documents include:
- Incorporation documents
- Director and shareholder identification
- Proof of business activities
- Business plan or contracts
HeySara guides you through the entire process, including introductions to banking partners and fintech alternatives such as:
- ZA Bank
- Airwallex
- Wise Business
- Neat
This ensures faster onboarding compared to traditional banking.
Step 7: Maintain Post-Incorporation Compliance
To stay compliant, Hong Kong companies must fulfil ongoing obligations:
Annual Requirements
- Annual Return (NAR1) filing
- Financial statement preparation
- Statutory audit by an HKCPA
- Profits Tax Return filing
- Business Registration renewal
Other Compliance Duties
- Maintaining the Significant Controllers Register (SCR)
- Updating company records when changes occur
- Keeping proper accounting and tax records
HeySara provides fully managed compliance services so you never miss a deadline.
Why Register Your Hong Kong Company with HeySara?
Registering a Hong Kong company is straightforward when done correctly—but managing compliance, documentation, and banking requirements on your own can be overwhelming.
HeySara simplifies the entire process with:
- Digital incorporation workflows
- Real-time support
- Experienced company secretaries
- Modern, tech-driven compliance tools
- Transparent pricing
- Cross-border expertise for Singapore + Hong Kong entrepreneurs
Whether you’re a startup, e-commerce seller, consultant, or expanding overseas, we ensure your incorporation is fast, compliant, and stress-free.
Ready to Incorporate Your Hong Kong Company?
HeySara can help you navigate every step—from selecting the right entity type to managing compliance after your business is set up. Let our experts guide you through a smooth and efficient Hong Kong company registration process.
