What are the key steps and timeline for incorporating a company in Hong Kong? (Setting up a business in Hong Kong)
- Vivien Chung
- Jun 4
- 2 min read
Setting up a business in Hong Kong involves these essential steps:
1. Choose the Company Type
Most common: Private Company Limited by Shares
Other options: public companies, companies limited by guarantee, etc.
2. Select a Company Name
Must be unique and not infringe on existing trademarks or company names
Can be in English, Chinese, or both
Check name availability via the Hong Kong Companies Registry's online search tool (Immediate)
3. Prepare Incorporation Documents (1-2 days)
See the document list in the previous blog post for details
4. Appoint Key Persons
At least one director who is a natural person (individual)
A Hong Kong company secretary (must be a Hong Kong resident or a Hong Kong-registered company)
A registered office address in Hong Kong
5. Submit Application and Pay Fees to Companies Registry
Options:
e-Registry (online filing): Submit forms and pay fees electronically (same day)
Paper submission: Submit in person or by mail (4-5 days)
6. Obtain the Certificate of Incorporation
After approval, Companies Registry issues:
Certificate of Incorporation (CR number)
Business Registration Certificate (BR number) automatically issued by Inland Revenue Department
Timeline: Same day by online application, 5-7 days for paper application
7. Set Up Statutory Records and Share Certificates
Prepare and maintain registers of directors, shareholders, etc.
Issue share certificates to initial subscribers
8. Open Corporate Bank Account (1-4 weeks varies by bank)
Once incorporation is completed, apply to open a business bank account
9. Fulfill Ongoing Compliance Requirements
Annual returns, corporate filings, audits, etc.
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