Hong Kong consistently ranks among the top 5 easiest places in the world to do business (World Bank, 2024). Its territorial tax system, simple corporate structure, and zero restrictions on foreign ownership make it the preferred gateway for international businesses entering Asia. Conson Group has helped more than 500 companies incorporate since 2003.
Why Register a Company in Hong Kong?
- Low profits tax — 8.25% on the first HK$2 million of assessable profits; 16.5% thereafter. One of the lowest corporate tax rates in Asia.
- Territorial taxation — profits sourced outside Hong Kong are generally not subject to Hong Kong Profits Tax. No tax on overseas income.
- No capital gains tax, no VAT (GST), no withholding tax on dividends or interest.
- Simple structure — a Hong Kong company requires a minimum of 1 director, 1 shareholder, and 1 company secretary. No residency requirements for directors or shareholders.
- World-class banking — access to HSBC, Standard Chartered, DBS, and over 70 international banks operating in Hong Kong.
- Gateway to Greater China — preferential business access to mainland China through CEPA (Closer Economic Partnership Arrangement).
- Strong rule of law — common law system, independent judiciary, and internationally recognised legal and IP frameworks.
What’s Included in Our Incorporation Package
| Starter | Standard (recommended) | Premium |
|---|---|---|
| Company name search | Company name search | Company name search |
| Articles of Association | Articles of Association | Articles of Association |
| Companies Registry filing | Companies Registry filing | Companies Registry filing |
| Business Registration Cert (Year 1) | Business Registration Cert (Year 1) | Business Registration Cert (Year 1) |
| Company seal (chop) | Company seal (chop) | Company seal (chop) |
| — | Registered address (1 year) | Registered address (1 year) |
| — | Company secretary (1 year) | Company secretary (1 year) |
| — | Share certificates | Share certificates + share register |
| — | — | Bank account introduction letter |
| — | — | Annual compliance reminder service |
How Long Does It Take?
Use a 4-step visual timeline on the page. Body copy below.
Step 1 — Submit documents (Day 1): Provide the required identification and company details. Our team prepares all filings within hours.
Step 2 — Companies Registry filing (Day 1–2): We submit the incorporation documents to the Hong Kong Companies Registry electronically.
Step 3 — Business Registration (Day 2–3): We apply for the Business Registration Certificate from the Inland Revenue Department simultaneously.
Step 4 — Receive your documents (Day 3): You receive your Certificate of Incorporation, Business Registration Certificate, Articles of Association, and share certificates. You are now officially trading.
What Do You Need?
Minimum requirements to register a Hong Kong company:
1 director — any nationality, no Hong Kong residency required. A corporate director is also permitted.
1 shareholder — any individual or company, any nationality. The director and shareholder can be the same person.
1 company secretary — must be a Hong Kong resident or a licensed body corporate in Hong Kong. Conson Group provides this service.
A Hong Kong registered address — a physical address in Hong Kong (not a PO Box) for legal correspondence. Conson Group’s virtual office address fulfils this requirement from HK$288/month.
Company name — in English, Traditional Chinese, or both. We check name availability with the Companies Registry instantly.
What Does It Cost to Maintain a Hong Kong Company?
After incorporation, annual compliance costs are straightforward and predictable:
Company Secretary service: HK$2,000–3,000 per year (required by law — must be a HK resident or licensed body corporate).
Business Registration renewal: HK$2,200 per year (government fee, 2024/25 rate — subject to annual adjustment by IRD).
Annual Return filing: HK$105 per year (Companies Registry fee for private companies).
Registered address: from HK$3,456 per year with Conson Group’s virtual office service.
Total estimated annual cost (Conson Standard package): from approximately HK$8,000–10,000 per year, excluding accounting and audit fees.
Frequently Asked Questions
Q: Can a foreigner own 100% of a Hong Kong company?
A: Yes. There are no restrictions on foreign ownership of Hong Kong companies. A company can be 100% owned by non-Hong Kong residents, overseas individuals, or foreign corporations. There is also no requirement for a local director.
Q: Do I need to be physically in Hong Kong to register a company?
A: No. The entire incorporation process can be completed remotely. Conson Group handles all filing with the Companies Registry and IRD on your behalf. Documents are signed electronically or couriered for signature.
Q: What is the annual compliance requirement after incorporation?
A: All Hong Kong companies must: (1) file an Annual Return with the Companies Registry within 42 days of the incorporation anniversary; (2) renew the Business Registration Certificate annually; (3) hold an Annual General Meeting or pass a written resolution in lieu; (4) maintain statutory books and records; and (5) file a Profits Tax Return with the Inland Revenue Department.
Q: How is Hong Kong company profit taxed?
A: Hong Kong operates a two-tier profits tax system. The first HK$2 million of assessable profits for a corporation is taxed at 8.25%. Profits above HK$2 million are taxed at 16.5%. Only profits sourced from Hong Kong are taxable — overseas-sourced income is generally exempt.
Q: Can I open a business bank account after registration?
A: Yes. Most major banks in Hong Kong (HSBC, Hang Seng, Standard Chartered, DBS, etc.) accept applications from newly incorporated companies. Conson Group can provide an introduction letter to our banking partners to streamline the process. Remote account opening is available with select banks for non-HK residents.
Q: What is a Company Secretary and do I need one?
A: Every Hong Kong company is legally required to appoint a company secretary under the Companies Ordinance (Cap. 622). The company secretary must be a natural person ordinarily resident in Hong Kong, or a body corporate with a registered office or place of business in Hong Kong. If you are a sole director, you cannot also serve as your own company secretary. Conson Group provides this service as part of our incorporation packages.