Hong Kong is a globally recognized business hub and home to many international headquarters. Company formation here is both cost-effective and straightforward.

A third party can register a company on your behalf — there is no need for directors or owners to be residents. Any individual aged 18 or older can start a business. The online incorporation process usually takes 5–7 working days.

Types of Business Structures in Hong Kong

Before registering a business in Hong Kong, it's important to decide whether you'll operate locally or from abroad. This choice impacts taxation, compliance, and structure. Below are the main business structures available:

• Sole Proprietorship: A single-owner business where the individual is fully responsible for all profits, losses, and liabilities.
• Partnership: A business shared by 2 to 20 partners.
  • General Partnership: All partners share equal responsibility for debts and profits.
  • Limited Partnership: Liability is split — general partners assume full responsibility, while limited partners are liable only up to their investment.
• Private Limited Company (Ltd. by Shares): The most common structure. It has a separate legal identity from its owners and allows up to 50 shareholders. Ideal for startups and SMEs.
• Public Limited Company: Best suited for larger enterprises planning to raise capital through public investment. This structure is often listed on the Stock Exchange of Hong Kong (SEHK) and allows for more than 50 shareholders.
• Company Limited by Guarantee: Used by non-profit organisations and charities, where members agree to contribute a fixed amount in the event of liquidation. This amount is defined in the Articles of Association.
• Branch Office: An extension of a foreign company, permitted to operate in Hong Kong. It is not considered a separate legal entity from its parent company.
• Representative Office: A non-commercial office set up by a foreign business to conduct activities like market research or liaison work. It cannot carry out profit-generating activities.

Advantages of Registering a Company in Hong Kong

• Business-Friendly Environment: Hong Kong consistently ranks among the world’s freest economies. The company registration process is fast, cost-effective, and efficient.
• Remote Management: There’s no need to be physically present. Your business can be managed from anywhere with the support of a local agency.
• Gateway to Mainland China: Hong Kong offers direct access to Mainland China’s vast market of over 1.3 billion people, along with favourable trade terms with 30+ countries through bilateral agreements.
• Government Autonomy & Support: As a Special Administrative Region of China, Hong Kong operates under its own legal and economic system, providing more flexibility and stability for international businesses.

Eligibility Criteria for Company Registration in China

• Board of Directors: A minimum of 3 and up to 13 directors is required.
• Chairman & Deputy Chairman: Both positions must be appointed.
• Registered Business Address: A physical location in China is mandatory for official registration and operations.
• Legal Representative: A designated legal representative is required to act on behalf of the company.
• Company Name Reservation: The business name must be pre-approved and reserved before proceeding with registration.

Compliances for Registered Companies in China

• Monthly Financial Statements: All companies must maintain and submit monthly financial statements in Chinese.
• Annual Reporting: An annual report must be filed with the State Administration for Market Regulation (SAMR) between January 1 and June 30.
• Corporate Tax Compliance: The standard corporate tax rate is 25%. A reduced rate of 15% applies to qualified businesses under the Chinese Government’s Incentive Schemes.
• Annual General Meeting (AGM): Every company must hold an AGM, typically within nine months after the fiscal year-end.
• Accounting Standards: Businesses must follow the Chinese Accounting Standards for bookkeeping, updated monthly.
• Quarterly Tax Returns: A corporate income tax return must be filed every quarter.
• VAT Returns: VAT filings are mandatory by the 15th of each month, or earlier if due.

Documents Required For Company Incorporation in Hong Kong

• Company name (as approved)
• Registered office address
• Legal representative's tax ID
• The company supervisor's ID
• Information about shareholders and directors
• Shareholders' documents notarised
• Memorandum of Association (MoA)
• Articles of Association (AoA)
• Capitalisation schedule of the company

Why Choose Sperso Filings?

• At Sperso Filings, our team of legal and business experts is here to support your global expansion. We offer complete assistance with international company registration, ensuring compliance at every step.
• Whether you're setting up in Hong Kong, China, or anywhere else, we make the process smooth, efficient, and hassle-free — with zero delays.
• Get started with Sperso Filings today. Your business deserves a global presence.