What Are the Minimum Statutory Requirements for Forming a Company in Hong Kong?

Starting a business in Hong Kong is known for its simplicity and efficiency, but there are still minimum legal requirements every entrepreneur must meet to ensure their company is properly established and compliant. Understanding these basic criteria is the first step to successful company formation HK.

1. Company Name

Your company must have an approved and unique name. It can be in English, Chinese, or both, but must not be identical or too similar to existing registered names in Hong Kong.

2. At Least One Director

Every private limited company must appoint at least one natural person as a director. Corporate directors are allowed, but only in addition to at least one individual director. There is no requirement for the director to be a Hong Kong resident.

3. One Shareholder Minimum

A Hong Kong company must have at least one shareholder and can have up to fifty. The shareholder and director can be the same person, and both individuals or corporate entities are eligible.

4. Company Secretary

The company must appoint a company secretary who is either a resident individual or a corporate body with a registered office in Hong Kong. The secretary is responsible for maintaining statutory records and filing documents with the Companies Registry.

5. Registered Office Address

Every Hong Kong company must have a local registered office address. This address is where all legal documents and government communications will be sent. It must be a physical location within Hong Kong, not a PO Box.

6. Share Capital

There is no minimum capital requirement, but the company must issue at least one share to start. Most businesses begin with HKD 1 in share capital for each shareholder.

7. Business Registration Certificate

Within one month of incorporation, the company must apply for a business registration certificate from the Inland Revenue Department. This certificate must be renewed annually or once every three years, depending on the selected term.

8. Articles of Association

The company must adopt Articles of Association that outline its internal rules and management structure. A standard template is available from the Companies Registry, though businesses may customize it if needed.

Why Work With a Professional Service Provider?

Even though the process is relatively simple, many foreign entrepreneurs prefer to use a company formation service in Hong Kong to avoid errors, delays, or missed compliance requirements. A reliable provider ensures your documents are prepared accurately and submitted on time, and can assist with ongoing compliance and administrative support.

At AsiaBC, we help clients meet every legal requirement, from choosing a company name to securing a registered office and filing with the relevant authorities. With years of experience in Hong Kong’s business setup landscape, we make incorporation smooth, fast, and hassle-free.

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