FAQ

• What is an incorporation of a company?

  Incorporating a company means legally establishing a business as a separate legal entity, which offers benefits like limited liability, greater credibility, and easier access to funding. Hong Kong is one of the most popular destinations globally for company incorporation, thanks to its business-friendly environment, simple tax structure, and robust legal system.

  To incorporate in Hong Kong, you’ll need a unique company name and a local registered address. Additionally, you must appoint a Designated Representative, at least one individual Director, one Shareholder, and a Company Secretary who fulfils Hong Kong’s regulatory requirements. This straightforward process, combined with Hong Kong’s efficient government systems, makes incorporation quick and accessible for local and international entrepreneurs alike.

• Can I register a company in Hong Kong online?

  Yes, you absolutely can! Hong Kong has one of the most efficient systems for online company registration, allowing entrepreneurs worldwide to set up their businesses remotely. Once you can fulfil the requirements for online company registration, we simplify the entire registration process so that you can complete everything online without extensive paperwork or in-person visits.

  Our team will take care of all the details, including arranging a local Company Secretary to meet Hong Kong’s regulatory requirements, securing a registered address, and assisting with the setup of a business bank account. We’ll also guide you on any necessary filings, compliance measures, and keep you informed of ongoing requirements after registration. This approach makes it easy for you to launch a Hong Kong-based company quickly and efficiently, no matter where you’re located.

• How long does it take to register a company?

  Once all required documents are prepared, registering a company in Hong Kong is typically a quick process, taking only about 3-4 business days. During this time, we handle the application submission and coordinate with the Hong Kong Inland Revenue Department's Business Registration Office to secure your business registration certificate.

  The timeline mainly depends on two factors: having all necessary documents ready and the working hours of the relevant authorities. With our streamlined approach, we help ensure that everything is in order for a smooth, efficient registration process, minimising any delays so your business can be operational as soon as possible.

• What does the incorporation timeline depend on?

  Typically, we can complete your company registration within just 3-4 business days, provided all necessary documents are ready, and we’re within the working days of the relevant authorities. Here’s what we’ll need to proceed:

  • Payment — Collect payment for our services.
  • Documents & Information — Receive all required documents and information from you.
  • Due Diligence — Clear our due diligence checks to ensure compliance.
  • Electronic Signatures — Have the documents electronically signed on your end.

  Once these steps are completed, we can swiftly move through the registration process and get your company up and running without unnecessary delays.

• What language is allowed when selecting a name for registration in Hong Kong?

  When choosing a company name for registration in Hong Kong, you have the flexibility to use either English, Chinese, or both languages, but there are specific guidelines to follow:

  • Language Consistency — You can register your company with either an English name, a Chinese name, or both, but the name cannot contain a mix of English and Chinese characters within a single name.
  • Naming Convention — If your company name is in English, it must end with the word "Limited." If your company name is in Chinese, the last character should convey the meaning of "Limited" to meet regulatory standards.

  By adhering to these requirements, you’ll ensure your chosen name aligns with Hong Kong’s naming conventions and is eligible for registration.

• What are the minimum statutory requirements for registering a company in Hong Kong?

  Most business owners register their companies in the form of private limited companies in Hong Kong. To do so, you must meet the following requirements:

  • At least one shareholder over 18 years old is required.
  • The shareholder can be a local or a foreigner
  • At least one director of over 18 years old is required. The director can be a local or a foreigner
  • One person can act as both the shareholder and the director
  • You must have a registered address in Hong Kong
  • While you do not need a minimum share capital to register a company in Hong Kong, the common practice is to have about HK$10,000 in share capital. Since the minimum paid-up capital per share is HK$1.00, your share capital can be represented by 10,000 ordinary shares of HK$1.00 each
  • Your company needs to have a Designated Representative (DR) in the form of a company or a person to provide assistance to the company's Significant Controllers Register (SCR)
  • A company secretary who is a local. If you would like to use an incorporated entity as your secretary, it will need to have an office in Hong Kong

  After meeting these requirements, you will need to apply for a valid business registration certificate through the Hong Kong Companies Registry to officially establish your business.

• What do I get after registering a company?

  Once your company is successfully registered in Hong Kong, you’ll receive several essential items and services to help you operate smoothly and stay compliant. These include:

  • Articles of Association — The foundational document outlining your company's governance.
  • Local Company Secretary — A dedicated, qualified professional to handle your company’s statutory responsibilities.
  • Registered Business Address — A physical address in Hong Kong for official correspondence.
  • Business Account — Assistance with setting up a business bank account to facilitate financial transactions.
  • Business Registration Certificate — Your official registration certificate issued by the Inland Revenue Department.
  • Certificate of Incorporation — Your company registration certificate issued by the Companies Registry.

  Additionally, we’ll help set up your accounting calendar to keep track of tax obligations and ensure your business stays compliant throughout the financial year, giving you peace of mind as you grow.

• What should I do after registering a company in Hong Kong?

  Once your company is successfully registered in Hong Kong, you can concentrate on the essential next steps to ensure your business operates smoothly. One of the first tasks is to open a business account, and if you register your company with UnionSPACE, we provide assistance throughout this process to make it as seamless as possible.

  Additionally, you should obtain any relevant permits and licenses necessary for your industry, which can be found on the government website. This ensures that your business complies with local regulations. Finally, it’s important to set up your bookkeeping and accounting processes to manage your finances effectively. Taking these steps will help you establish a strong foundation for your newly registered company and support its growth in the competitive Hong Kong market.

• Can I register a company if I am not in Hong Kong?

  Yes, you can register a company in Hong Kong even if you are not physically present in the city. Our online qualification process allows you to fulfil all necessary requirements remotely. Once you complete this process, your company registration will typically be finalised within 5-7 working days. This flexibility makes it easy for international entrepreneurs to establish a business in one of the world’s most dynamic markets without the need for travel. With our assistance, you can navigate the registration process smoothly from anywhere in the world.

• Do I need to be physically present in Hong Kong during the company registration process?

  No, you do not need to be physically present in Hong Kong to register your company. The process is designed to be efficient and accessible for entrepreneurs worldwide. If you have an agency to assist you with the registration, all you need to do is provide them with the required documents. This allows you to complete the registration remotely, making it convenient to establish your business in Hong Kong without the need for travel. With the right support, you can navigate the process seamlessly from anywhere in the world.