How to Register a Company in Hong Kong? A Detailed Company Registration Guide
As an international financial center, Hong Kong attracts entrepreneurs from around the world with its superior business environment, sound legal system, and tax incentives. If you plan to
establish a company in Hong Kong, here is a detailed guide to help you smoothly complete the registration process.
Step 1: Choose the Company Type and Name
First, you need to choose the most suitable company type based on your business needs and risk tolerance. Common types of companies in Hong Kong include limited companies by shares and companies limited by guarantee.
A limited company by shares is suitable for most commercial activities, where members’ legal liability is limited to their share capital. On the other hand, a company limited by guarantee is suitable for non-profit organizations, where members’ legal liability is limited to the amount they agree to contribute in the event of the company’s winding up.
Next, you need to draft a unique and compliant company name. According to the regulations of the Hong Kong Companies Registry, the company name must not be identical to that of an existing company or registered trademark, and must not contain elements that may infringe on others’ intellectual property rights. You can check the availability of the company name on the electronic services website of the Companies Registry and ensure thorough intellectual property checks before submitting your application.
Step 2: Submit the Application
Once you have determined the company type and name, you can start preparing the registration application materials. You need to fill out the Incorporation Form (Form NNC1 for limited companies by shares, Form NNC1G for other companies) and attach the company’s Articles of Association. Additionally, you need to submit a Notice to the Business Registration Office (Form IRBR1) for business registration.
You can choose to submit the application electronically via the Companies Registry’s electronic services website or in paper form at the receipt counter of the Queensway Government Offices. Regardless of the method chosen, the corresponding application fee must be paid.
Step 3: Receive the Certificates
If the application is approved, you will receive a Certificate of Incorporation and a Business Registration Certificate. If you submitted the application electronically, the certificates will be sent electronically to your registered user account and registered email address. If you submitted the application in paper form, you will need to collect the certificates in person at the Companies Registry after receiving the collection notice, or authorize someone else to collect them on your behalf (authorization letter and relevant proof documents required).
Please note that electronic certificates and paper certificates have the same legal effect. You can choose the appropriate form based on your needs.
Step 4: Obtain Other Licenses or Permits
Depending on your business type and scope of operations, you may need to apply for other licenses, permits, certificates, or approvals from the Hong Kong Trade and Industry Department or other relevant departments. For example, companies engaged in import and export business need to apply for import/export licenses; companies engaged in food business need to apply for food hygiene licenses, etc. Be sure to understand and comply with the relevant regulatory requirements before starting your business.
In conclusion,
registering a company in Hong Kong requires following certain procedures and regulations. As long as you follow the steps outlined above and ensure that the submitted materials are truthful, complete, and accurate, you will be able to successfully complete the company registration process and embark on your entrepreneurial journey in Hong Kong.
