Setting up a company in Hong Kong is one of the fastest and most straightforward processes in Asia. With no minimum capital requirement, 100% foreign ownership allowed, a simple tax system (8.25% on the first HK$2M of profits), and a world-class business infrastructure, it’s no surprise that Hong Kong remains a top destination for entrepreneurs from around the globe.
This guide walks you through the entire company formation process and compares the best incorporation service providers to help you choose the right partner for your business.
Step-by-Step: How to Register a Company in Hong Kong
Step 1: Choose Your Company Structure. Most SMEs opt for a Private Limited Company (the most common structure). Other options include sole proprietorship, partnership, or branch office of a foreign company. A Private Limited Company offers limited liability protection and is the standard for doing business in Hong Kong.
Step 2: Choose a Company Name. Your company name must be unique and can be in English, Chinese, or both. Check availability at the Companies Registry’s ICRIS system. Avoid names that imply government affiliation or contain restricted words like “Bank” or “Trust” without proper licensing.
Step 3: Prepare Required Information. You’ll need: at least one director (individual, any nationality), at least one shareholder (individual or corporate), a company secretary (must be HK resident or HK-registered company), a registered office address in Hong Kong, and articles of association.
Step 4: File Incorporation Documents. Submit the Incorporation Form (NNC1) to the Companies Registry, either online via e-Registry or through a formation service. Processing takes 1-4 business days for online applications.
Step 5: Obtain Business Registration. A Business Registration Certificate (BRC) is automatically issued alongside the Certificate of Incorporation. The standard registration fee is HK$2,150/year (subject to government levy changes).
Step 6: Open a Business Bank Account. Once incorporated, you’ll need a business bank account. See our Business Bank Accounts Comparison for the best options.
Best Company Formation Services Compared
Our Top Picks for 2026
All-in-one platform with company secretary, accounting, and tax filing. Excellent UI and transparent pricing.
Lowest formation fees in Hong Kong with basic but reliable service.
Fully remote incorporation with strong multi-language support and virtual office options.
| Rank | Provider | Formation Fee | Annual Package | Turnaround | Includes | Rating | |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| 1 | Sleek | From HK$0* | From HK$5,988/yr | 1-3 days | Secretary, address, filing | 4.7/5 | Visit Sleek |
| 2 | Osome | From HK$2,999 | From HK$5,499/yr | 1-3 days | Secretary, address, filing | 4.6/5 | Visit Osome |
| 3 | Statrys | From HK$3,999 | From HK$6,000/yr | 2-4 days | Secretary, address, bank intro | 4.5/5 | Visit Statrys |
| 4 | OneStart | From HK$1 | From HK$3,888/yr | 1-2 days | Secretary, address | 4.3/5 | Visit OneStart |
| 5 | FastLane | From HK$2,500 | From HK$5,500/yr | 2-3 days | Secretary, address, accounting | 4.2/5 | Visit FastLane |
| 6 | Prism | From HK$4,000 | From HK$6,800/yr | 2-5 days | Secretary, address, compliance | 4.1/5 | Visit Prism |
| 7 | Air Corporate | From HK$3,500 | From HK$5,000/yr | 1-3 days | Secretary, address | 4.0/5 | Visit Air Corporate |
Cost Breakdown: What Does It Really Cost?
Here’s a realistic breakdown of the costs involved in incorporating a Hong Kong Private Limited Company in 2026:
Government Fees: Companies Registry incorporation fee is HK$1,720, and the Business Registration Certificate costs HK$2,150/year (standard rate, subject to government levy). These are fixed costs regardless of which formation service you use.
Service Provider Fees: Formation fees range from HK$0 (Sleek, when bundled with annual plan) to HK$4,000+. Annual company secretary and registered address packages range from HK$3,888 (OneStart) to HK$6,800+ (Prism), depending on services included.
Total First-Year Cost: Expect to spend between HK$7,758 (budget option with OneStart) and HK$12,670 (premium option with Prism) for the first year, including all government fees, company secretary, and registered address.
Frequently Asked Questions
Can a foreigner set up a company in Hong Kong?
Yes. There are no restrictions on foreign ownership. You can own 100% of a Hong Kong company regardless of your nationality or residency. You do need a local company secretary (your formation service provides this) and a registered address in Hong Kong (also provided by your formation service).
How long does it take to incorporate a company in Hong Kong?
Online applications through the Companies Registry typically take 1-4 business days. Most formation services complete the entire process within 1-3 business days. Same-day incorporation is available for an additional fee from some providers.
What is the minimum capital required?
There is no minimum capital requirement for a Hong Kong Private Limited Company. The standard issued share capital is HK$10,000 (divided into 10,000 shares of HK$1 each), but this is a nominal amount and does not need to be paid up.
Do I need to be physically present in Hong Kong?
No. The entire incorporation process can be completed remotely. Formation services like Osome and Sleek handle everything digitally. However, opening a traditional bank account may require an in-person visit (though digital bank accounts like Airwallex and Statrys can be opened remotely).
What ongoing compliance requirements are there?
Hong Kong companies must file an Annual Return with the Companies Registry, renew their Business Registration Certificate annually, hold an annual general meeting (for companies with multiple shareholders), maintain proper books and records, and file a Profits Tax Return (even if nil). Most formation service annual packages cover the administrative compliance requirements.
Our Methodology
Formation services are rated on: pricing transparency (25%), service scope (25%), turnaround speed (20%), customer support (15%), and technology/user experience (15%). We conduct annual reviews and verify current pricing directly with providers. See our Editorial Guidelines.
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