- Register a company in Hong Kong provides an excellent opportunity for international entrepreneurs seeking one of the quickest and cheapest paths into the dynamic market of Asia by registering via the Companies Registry system.
- For those looking to register a company in Hong Kong a private limited company, the most common type of setup, some of the important criteria that need to be met include picking an English or Chinese name for the business, appointing directors and a company secretary (company secretary needs to be local), issuing a minimum of one share without any par value, and choosing a company address in Hong Kong.
- The Companies Ordinance stipulates that significant control person identification, annual returns, and audits in accordance with HKFRS are compulsory. Fintech companies or trading companies will also need to cover AML issues with the SFC or customs.
- With expertise in legal issues and company incorporation, we make sure there is absolutely no delay in obtaining name reservation services, e-Incorporation services, as well as the Business Registration Certificate provided by the Inland Revenue Department (IRD).
- In addition to the above, we have experts who can advise you about the best way to incorporate the company, such as a tax-exempt offshore company or holding company in multiple jurisdictions, taking advantage of Hong Kong’s 0% tax rate on income generated outside Hong Kong.
- We have accountancy and taxation experts who assist with the registration of profits tax, exemptions from auditing for small businesses, and setting up your business.
Step by step procedure to register a company in Hong Kong in 2026
Step 1: Structure selection
- Private limited company (popular) under the Companies Ordinance, suitable for SMEs, trading activities, or as a holding structure. Determine share capital (min HK$1, no par value) and different classes of shares. Our legal and incorporation professionals recommend a structure that will maximize your advantages.
Step 2: Name selection and availability check
- Pick a unique English, Chinese, or bilingual name through the Companies Registry’s . Avoid prohibited names such as “bank” without necessary approval. We offer our clients prompt name searches and reservations, so there is no chance you may lose your preferred names.
Step 3: Appointment of key individuals
- Appoint minimum of 1 director (with no specific requirements in terms of residency) and 1 company secretary (residence in Hong Kong required, also can be appointed by an authorized company). Our legal and incorporation professionals can assist you in appointing compliant company secretary.
Step 4: Provide registered office address
- Specify HK physical office address (P.O. Boxes not acceptable). Virtual offices acceptable provided that they comply. We provide you with addresses complying with 2026 regulations.
Step 5: Complete incorporation documents
- Prepare Form NNC1 (registration application), Articles of Association, Director/Shareholders (passports & proof of identity for each), and Significant Controllers Register (SCR) for >25% shareholders. Our team of lawyers and incorporators will customize forms for quick processing.
Step 6: Register with Companies Registry
- File online through the e-Registry portal or submit personally at Queen’s Way Government Services Building using Notice of Business Registration (IRBR1). We complete digital filing procedures so that you can receive your Certificate of Incorporation and Business Registration Certificate promptly.
Step 7: Acquisition of business registration certificate
- BRC acquired along with incorporation should be displayed at the place of business. Our accounting and taxation experts will ensure that profit tax and MPF are registered in due course.
Step 8: Corporate bank account opening
- Submit your certificates of incorporation, director KYC, SCR, and business plans to HSBC, Standard Chartered, and other banks. Our accounting and taxation experts will compile compliance documents under the 2026 AML regulations; the objective is an account activation within 5-10 days.
Step 9: Compliance after incorporation
- Conduct the first directors’ meeting, provide shares, and submit notifications of change to the Companies Registry. Our legal and incorporation experts will help you create minute books and make audit arrangements.
Cost to register a company in Hong Kong in 2026
- The registration costs associated with starting up a business in Hong Kong are still affordable and straightforward. It is one of the best places to register your firm for incorporation, setting up a private limited company, Hong Kong company registration, and offshore tax advantages.
- The government charges for the registration of a company with the Companies Registry, issuing the Business Registration Certificate, and filing annual returns. Compulsory aspects include appointing a company secretary, registering the official address, and identifying the register of significant controllers.
- Our team of professionals will deal with reserving a company name, registering on e-Registry, and abiding by the Companies Ordinance. Our team will make your business structure tax-free and eligible for double-taxation agreements at zero percent profit tax from outside Hong Kong.
Requirements to register a company in Hong Kong in 2026
- At least 1 director, no residence restriction
- At least 1 shareholder (either individual or corporate), no residence restriction
- HKD 1 minimum authorized share capital, no nominal value
- 1 compulsory company secretary (has to be a Hong Kong resident or licensed corporate service provider)
- Hong Kong registered office address mandatory
- Unique company name in English/Chinese/bilingual
- Significant Controller Register (SCR) for individuals having greater than 25% control
- Incorporation Document NNC1 and Memorandum of Association
- Business Registration Notice IRBR1 for IRD certificate
- Passport and proof of address for directors/shareholders
- Compliance with Anti-money laundering (AML)/ Know Your Customer (KYC) regulations
Conclusion
- Incorporation of a company in Hong Kong in 2026 is an unrivalled experience that allows incorporation via e-Registry, including one director appointment, mandatory company secretary, HK$1 minimum share capital, and significant controller register filing, while meeting all requirements of the Companies Ordinance.
- Our lawyers and incorporators take care of name reservation, NNC1 filings, and Business Registration Certificate issuance, while our specialists in structures optimization help you with trading, fintech, and holding company registration based on double taxation treaties.
- Our accountants and tax experts will deal with profit tax account set up, audit exemption application for small companies, and Mandatory Provident Fund compliance, allowing fast bank account opening under strict 2026 anti-money laundering laws. This unique entry point into Asia makes your global enterprise a profitable venture with affordable incorporation and impeccable business reputation.
- Contact us, and we will respond within 24 hours.