Launch Your Business in Hong Kong

Hong Kong is an international financial and trading hub with a well-developed legal system, business-friendly infrastructure for international companies, and a territorial tax system.

Registering a company in Hong Kong is suitable for entrepreneurs who work with international clients and suppliers, engage in trading, e-commerce, IT, consulting, or investment activities, or want to establish a corporate structure for operating in Asian markets.

In most cases, the owner does not need to relocate to Hong Kong or be physically present during the registration process. Non-residents can establish local companies, and most of the registration process can be handled remotely.

Beforis assists with the entire company registration process in Hong Kong, from preparing the necessary documents to obtaining the corporate package and providing ongoing corporate services.

Why Entrepreneurs Choose Hong Kong

Hong Kong combines international business infrastructure, a well-developed financial sector, and a straightforward corporate system. As a result, the jurisdiction is used by both international companies and entrepreneurs looking to enter Asian markets.

1. International Business Hub

Hong Kong is located at the heart of Asia and provides convenient infrastructure for working with companies in China, other Asian countries, Europe, and international markets.

2. 100% Foreign Ownership

A standard private company does not require a local shareholder. A foreign entrepreneur can own the company entirely.

3. Territorial Tax System

Hong Kong applies a territorial principle of taxation to profits. Tax liability depends on the source of profits and the actual circumstances of the company’s activities.

4. Competitive Corporate Tax Rate

Hong Kong applies a two-tiered profits tax system: the first HKD 2 million of assessable profits is taxed at 8.25%, while profits above this threshold are taxed at 16.5%, subject to the conditions for applying the two-tiered rate.

5. No Minimum Paid-Up Capital Requirement

Hong Kong law does not set a minimum paid-up capital requirement for incorporating an ordinary company.

6. Remote Incorporation

Foreign founders do not need to be permanently present in Hong Kong. Documents and registration procedures can be handled remotely through a professional representative.

Who Is Hong Kong Company Registration Suitable For?

Hong Kong may be of interest to entrepreneurs who need an international corporate structure and access to the Asian business environment.

A Hong Kong company can be used for international trade, e-commerce, IT and software development, consulting, marketing and agency services, investment activities, and international business structuring.

At the same time, the tax implications depend on the specific business activity, where operations are carried out, the nature of the income, and the company’s structure. Before incorporation, we recommend defining the intended business model and reviewing it from a corporate and tax compliance perspective.

Requirements for a Hong Kong Company Structure

To establish a company in Hong Kong, you need to set up a basic corporate structure and ensure that all mandatory elements are in place.

For most international entrepreneurs, the most suitable option is a Private Company Limited by Shares — a private company limited by shares.

A non-resident of Hong Kong can be both a director and shareholder of the company. The involvement of a local partner is not required for incorporation.

A director can be a foreign national, so the business owner does not need to be a Hong Kong resident.

If the company has only one director, that person cannot also act as the company’s sole corporate secretary.

How Company Registration in Hong Kong Works

Online company registration in Hong Kong allows you to complete the entire process remotely — from choosing a company name to receiving the completed corporate documents.

1. Determine the Company Structure

You tell us about your business activities and objectives. We help determine the optimal company structure, including the directors and shareholders.

2. Choose a Company Name

You provide several name options, and we check their compliance with the requirements and availability for registration.

3. Prepare the Documents

You provide your passport, proof of address, CV, and information about your planned business activities. We conduct the necessary KYC checks and prepare the registration package.

4. Submit the Documents

We prepare the corporate documents and submit the application to the Companies Registry.

5. Receive the Certificates

Once the company is registered, you receive the Certificate of Incorporation and Business Registration Certificate, confirming the company’s registration.

6. Receive the Corporate Package

We provide you with the incorporation documents and documents relating to the director, shareholder, corporate secretary, and registered office.

7. Ongoing Support

After business registration in Hong Kong, you can order accounting and tax support, auditing, corporate secretary services, a registered office address, and assistance with opening a bank or payment account.

Company Taxation in Hong Kong

Hong Kong applies a territorial principle of taxation: as a general rule, profits sourced in Hong Kong are subject to tax. Foreign-sourced profits may be exempt from tax if the applicable requirements are met.

Profits Tax Rates

8.25% — on the first HKD 2 million of assessable profits;
16.5% — on profits exceeding HKD 2 million.

It is important to note that the absence of tax on foreign-sourced profits is not automatic. The tax authorities assess the actual circumstances and the source of the income.

Before incorporating a company, we will help you assess your business model and key tax obligations.

FAQ — Frequently Asked Questions

Can a foreign entrepreneur own 100% of the company?

Yes. A standard Private Company Limited by Shares can be 100% foreign-owned.

Is there a minimum share capital?

Hong Kong law does not establish a minimum paid-up capital requirement for incorporating an ordinary company.

How long does registration take?

For electronic filing, the Certificate of Incorporation and Business Registration Certificate for a private company limited by shares are generally issued within approximately one day after the complete application package is submitted to the Companies Registry.

However, the overall company setup time depends on KYC, document preparation, name verification, and the additional services selected.

Do I need to travel to Hong Kong to register a company?

For standard incorporation, the founder is generally not required to be physically present. The process can be arranged through a professional representative.

Is foreign-sourced income exempt from tax?

Foreign-sourced profits are generally not subject to Hong Kong Profits Tax, but this exemption is not automatic.

The source of profits is determined based on the actual circumstances of the business activities. Special rules under the FSIE regime may also apply to certain types of foreign-sourced income.

Is bookkeeping required?

Yes. The company must comply with applicable requirements for accounting records, financial statements, auditing, and tax reporting.

Can I open a bank account after incorporation?

Yes. After incorporation, you can apply to banks and other financial institutions. The decision to open an account is made by the respective institution following its own due diligence on the client and company.

Beforis can assist with preparing the documents and completing the application process.

Set up a company in Hong Kong

If you are planning to register a business in Hong Kong, we can help you determine the right structure, prepare the necessary documents, and complete the registration process.

Fill the form and a Beforis specialist will get in touch with you!