Start with the business activity and appropriate structure, then plan registration, licences, banking and ongoing records. The requirements differ between a limited company, sole proprietorship and partnership.
Choose a structure for the actual business
Consider liability, ownership, decision-making, funding and tax with the appropriate advisers. A limited company is a separate legal person; sole proprietorships and partnerships involve different registration and liability arrangements. One structure does not suit every business.
Registration and company details
A private company limited by shares is incorporated through the Companies Registry, with the associated business registration arrangements. A non-corporate business follows the business-registration process that applies to it; it is not incorporated merely by obtaining a Business Registration Certificate.
For a company, confirm the name, articles, ownership and officers. A search does not reserve a company name or clear trade mark rights. At least one individual director, a suitable company secretary and a Hong Kong registered office are required. Shareholders' dividend rights depend on the share terms, profits available for distribution and a valid declaration.
Permissions and banking
Check sector licences, premises requirements and employment or immigration matters before starting the relevant activity. Incorporation itself does not authorise a regulated activity or give an owner the right to work in Hong Kong.
Before a bank application, confirm eligibility and prepare the corporate, identity, business and funds information the provider requests. Approval and timing remain with the provider.
Plan the work after registration
Maintain company and accounting records, update changes and schedule the annual return separately from tax returns. Review financial reporting and independent audit requirements. Business registration can cover the applicable one-year or three-year period; renewal and fees depend on the certificate selected and current requirements.
If there are employees, plan payroll, employer reporting, MPF and employment obligations as applicable. Assign responsibility for sector licences and document renewals.
Working with IMSG
The incorporation page gives the current process, documents and HK$10,275 standard electronic package. It explains what is included and what is separately charged. A free 20-minute introductory call can help identify the next step; detailed professional work is scoped separately.