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HK Limited Company Registration

Incorporate a Hong Kong Limited Company

Starting a company is the first step in commencing a business. In Hong Kong, forming a limited company is the most common type of business entity. According to the Hong Kong Companies Ordinance, over one hundred thousand limited companies are established in Hong Kong each year, indicating that registering a limited company is the most popular choice for starting a business in the region.

When registering a company, one of the core considerations for entrepreneurs regarding the choice between a limited and an unlimited company is the scope of liability. The “limited” in limited company refers to the fact that the shareholders’ liability for the company’s debts is limited; that is, if the company is unable to repay its debts, shareholders’ losses are limited to their investment in the company, without the need to use personal assets to cover additional liabilities (unless the shareholders have provided personal guarantees for the company’s debts).

Therefore, for those business founders operating in higher-risk industries or planning to scale their businesses, choosing to establish a limited company is often a more prudent choice compared to an unlimited company.

Process for Incorporating a Limited Company

  • Online Submission of Information: Customers can submit their information through an online form, which includes details such as service options, proposed company name, company address, registered capital, directors, shareholders, and company secretary information.
  • Document Verification: Upon receipt of the information, our service representatives will verify the submitted details and conduct a company name search for the proposed company name to ensure it is available for use.
  • Appointment for Signing: Once the information is confirmed to be correct, clients can choose to come to our office to sign and make payment in person or opt for electronic signing. After the documents are duly signed, we will submit the registration documents to the Companies Registry to issue the Company Registration Certificate (the process takes approximately 5 working days / expedited service can be as quick as 3 hours).
  • Collection of Company Registration Documents: Upon receipt of the Company Registration Certificate, our firm will prepare the company seals or the green box. Once all the documents and seals are ready, we will notify the client to collect them and arrange for bank account opening referrals.

Price of Incorporating a Limited Company

Green Box Package

3-5 working days
HK$4830

  • Business Registration Certificate (BR)
  • Certificate of Incorporation (CI)
  • 5 copies of Article of Association (AA)
  • Preparation of the Register of Members (Deluxe Edition)
  • Preparation of the Register of Significant Controllers
  • Round chop, Signature chop & Common seal each.
  • It takes approximately 3-5 working days.
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Including:

  • Government fee of Incorporation $1720
  • First year's BR fee $2200

Apply Online

Economic Package (Recommended)

3-5 working days
HK$4630
  • Business Registration Certificate (BR)
  • Certificate of Incorporation (CI)
  • 5 copies of Article of Association (AA)
  • Preparation of the Register of Members (Standard Paper Version)
  • Preparation of the Register of Significant Controllers
  • Round chop & Signature chop each
  • It takes approximately 3-5 working days.
  •  
  •  
Including:
  • Government fee of Incorporation $1720
  • First year's BR fee $2200
Apply Now

Same-day Formation

As fast as 3 hours
HK$5580
  • Business Registration Certificate (BR)
  • Certificate of Incorporation (CI)
  • 5 copies of Article of Association (AA)
  • Preparation of the Register of Members (Standard Paper Version)
  • Preparation of the Register of Significant Controllers
  • Round chop & Signature chop each
  • Same-day collection of CI & BR
  • +$200 for an upgrade to the "Green Box" package
  •  
Including:
  • Government fee of Incorporation $1720
  • First year's BR fee $2200
Apply Now

Choose online or offline, open your company easily and quickly without leaving home!

AC Accounting provides digital company registration services, with a simple company formation process. Clients can choose to handle the incorporation procedures online or visit our office in person, offering greater flexibility in registering a company – choose between online or offline at your convenience.

Apply NowWhatsApp Inquiry

Is a "Company Secretary" mandatory for a limited company?

According to Section 474 of the Companies Ordinance, all limited companies in Hong Kong must appoint a company secretary. The role of the company secretary is to guide the company in ensuring compliance with the law. To prevent penalties, the company secretary also needs to ensure that all important documents are submitted on time, including the timely filing of the Annual Return, until the company is deregistered.

As most entrepreneurs and SME owners do not have comprehensive knowledge of company law and are not very familiar with company compliance procedures, company secretary services are very popular, saving you a lot of trouble and unnecessary fines.

Under current legislation, anyone operating or planning to operate a trust or company service business in Hong Kong must apply for a Trust or Company Service Provider License.

AC Accounting has over 10 years of experience in the field of company secretarial services, assisting SMEs to handle numerous challenging issues. To date, AC Accounting has served as the statutory company secretary for over 2000+ limited companies.

Apply OnlineWhatsApp Inquiry

Is a "Company Secretary" mandatory for a limited company?

According to Section 474 of the Companies Ordinance, all limited companies in Hong Kong must appoint a company secretary. The role of the company secretary is to guide the company in ensuring compliance with the law. To prevent penalties, the company secretary also needs to ensure that all important documents are submitted on time, including the timely filing of the Annual Return, until the company is deregistered.

As most entrepreneurs and SME owners do not have comprehensive knowledge of company law and are not very familiar with company compliance procedures, company secretary services are very popular, saving you a lot of trouble and unnecessary fines.

Under current legislation, anyone operating or planning to operate a trust or company service business in Hong Kong must apply for a Trust or Company Service Provider License.

AC Accounting has over 10 years of experience in the field of company secretarial services, assisting SMEs to handle numerous challenging issues. To date, AC Accounting has served as the statutory company secretary for over 2000+ limited companies.

Apply OnlineWhatsApp Inquiry

Annual Company Secretary Service Plan

Basic Plan

Excluding Government Fees
HK$800/Year

  • Acting as Company Secretary
  • Filing of Annual Return (NAR1)
  • WhatsApp Group Support
  • Business Commencement Notification
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  •  
  •  


  • +$600 for registered address service

  • - Mail collection with same-day notification via WhatsApp
  • - Twice-monthly forwarding (mid-month / end-of-month)
  • - Digital Signage

Apply Online Now

Value-Added Plan (Recommended)

Excluding Government Fees
HK$1100/Year

  • Acting as Company Secretary
  • Filing of Annual Return (NAR1)
  • WhatsApp Group Support
  • May use the following services "up to 5 times"
  • - Appointment or Change of Directors and Secretary Information
  • - Change of Company Name
  • - Change of Registered address
  • - Business Commencement Notification
  • - Change of business nature
  • - Change of business name
  • - Application for Branch Business Registration Certificate
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  •  

  • +$600 for registered address service

  • - Mail collection with same-day notification via WhatsApp
  • - Twice-monthly forwarding (mid-month / end-of-month)
  • - Digital Signage

Apply Online Now

Professional Plan

Excluding Government Fees
HK$2200/Year

  • Acting as Company Secretary
  • Filing of Annual Return (NAR1)
  • WhatsApp Group Support
  • May use the following services "up to 5 times"
  • - Appointment or Change of Directors and Secretary Information
  • - Change of Company Name
  • - Change of Registered address
  • - Business Commencement Notification
  • - Change of business nature
  • - Change of business name
  • - Application for Branch Business Registration Certificate
  • - Preparation of Meeting Minutes
  • - Update of Company Registers of Members
  • - Update of Register of Significant Controllers
  •  

  • +$600 for registered address service

  • - Mail collection with same-day notification via WhatsApp
  • - Twice-monthly forwarding (mid-month / end-of-month)
  • - Digital Signage

Apply Online Now

Worried about opening a "Company Bank Account"?

In recent years, banks have tightened the requirements for opening corporate bank accounts, leaving many entrepreneurs baffled by the banking procedures. With years of accumulated networking with bankers, AC Accounting makes it easier for clients to set up their corporate bank accounts, helping you to start your business more quickly!

AC Accounting does not charge any referral fees to banks. We strive to assist our clients in opening corporate bank accounts more quickly and easily; however, the success of the account opening is subject to the final approval of the bank.

What our client says?

Additional Value-Added Services

Accounting

According to Chapter 622 of the Hong Kong Companies Ordinance, a limited company is required to prepare financial statements annually and retain the relevant accounting records each year.

Read More

Corporate Mail

AC Accounting’s corporate email services include domain search, domain registration, backend setup, email account creation, allowing clients to use their own corporate email simply, quickly, and systematically.

Read More

Trademark

After registering a trademark, you will have the exclusive right to use the trademark for the related goods or services, providing you with the greatest protection for your trademark.。

Read More

Information Required for Opening a Limited Company

  • Company NameYou need to provide the proposed English and Chinese names of the company (if any). Upon receiving the information, we will conduct a registry search for our clients to confirm whether the company name is available for use.
  • Company Registered AddressThe address must be a physical address in Hong Kong; it can be a business address or the residential address of a shareholder/director.
  • Business NaturePlease provide the nature and scope of the company's business so that we can refer you to suitable banks for account opening and offer recommendations and support for related licenses.
  • ShareholdersProvide personal details of the company shareholders, including names, addresses, nationalities, identity proof documents, and the distribution of issued share capital and shareholding percentages among the shareholders.
  • DirectorProvide personal details of the directors, including names, addresses, identity proof documents, etc., as directors have statutory responsibilities.
  • Company SecretaryAppoint at least one company secretary to fulfill the statutory duties of the company, responsible for handling compliance work related to company law and other regulations.
Apply OnlineWhatsApp Inquiry

How should a limited company handle tax filing?

Under the Hong Kong Tax Ordinance, the financial statements of a limited company must be audited by a Hong Kong practicing accountant prior to tax filing. After receiving the Profits Tax Return (BIR51), the company must submit it on time along with the audit report and a tax computation. Generally, a limited company will receive its first Profits Tax Return 18 months after its incorporation, and the company is required to complete the audit and fill out the tax return within three months from the date of issuance of the tax return.

AC Accounting provides professional accounting support to current clients, helping them understand the tax filing requirements of the company. By preparing thoroughly before commencement of business and maintaining clear accounts, not only is company management benefited, but the entire tax filing process for the limited company is also made smoother, saving unnecessary expenses such as fines for late submissions

How should a limited company handle tax filing?

Under the Hong Kong Tax Ordinance, the financial statements of a limited company must be audited by a Hong Kong practicing accountant prior to tax filing. After receiving the Profits Tax Return (BIR51), the company must submit it on time along with the audit report and a tax computation. Generally, a limited company will receive its first Profits Tax Return 18 months after its incorporation, and the company is required to complete the audit and fill out the tax return within three months from the date of issuance of the tax return.

AC Accounting provides professional accounting support to current clients, helping them understand the tax filing requirements of the company. By preparing thoroughly before commencement of business and maintaining clear accounts, not only is company management benefited, but the entire tax filing process for the limited company is also made smoother, saving unnecessary expenses such as fines for late submissions

Benefits of Forming a Company in Hong Kong

  • Streamlined and Efficient Registration ProcessThe registration process for opening a company in Hong Kong is simple and fast, typically taking about 7 working days to complete, and applications can be made online.
  • Low Tax RateThe corporate income tax rate for Hong Kong companies is only 8.25% on the first 2 million profits, which is one of the lowest in the world, providing significant financial support for business development and expansion.
  • Highly Liquid CurrencyThe currency of Hong Kong is the Hong Kong Dollar, which is one of the most freely traded currencies on the international market, providing convenience for international trade and cross-border capital flows for businesses.
  • Open Market EnvironmentHong Kong offers an open market environment, with a high degree of openness to foreign trade and international investment, providing businesses with ample opportunities and space for development.
  • Strong Legal ProtectionsHong Kong possesses an independent legal system that safeguards the rights and interests of businesses and individuals, respects intellectual property rights and contractual obligations, providing strong legal protections for enterprises.
  • Convenient Transportation and CommunicationHong Kong boasts a sophisticated network of transportation and communication systems, which are highly convenient, offering businesses increased commercial opportunities and room for development.
  • Diverse Talent and CultureHong Kong is a diverse city with a wealth of talent and culture, providing businesses with a multicultural environment that fosters development and innovation.

If you have any questions, we are happy to answer you.

Hotline: (852) 3580 1380 / whatsApp: (852) 6706 0903
立即網上申請WhatsApp查詢

Frequently Asked Questions About Opening a Limited Company

Commonly Asked Questions

What are the requirements for opening a limited company in Hong Kong?

A shareholder and director who is at least 18 years old, holding a passport or identity card, can be a resident of China or an overseas individual to open a limited company in Hong Kong. The registered address for the limited company must be in Hong Kong. Additionally, the limited company must appoint a Hong Kong resident or a professional firm to act as the company’s statutory secretary; the secretary firm must hold a Trust or Corporate Service Provider license.

How long does it take to open a limited company in Hong Kong?

5-7 working days after submitting all the documents and signing the necessary paperwork.

Can mainland residents or overseas individuals open a limited company in Hong Kong?

Yes. The corporate laws in Hong Kong do not impose any nationality restrictions on shareholders/directors. However, the company secretary must be a Hong Kong resident or a company.

Will the nature of business stated on the Business Registration Certificate limit the company's ability to expand into other businesses?

The nature of business generally indicates the company’s primary scope of operations, but the Business Registration Certificate does not restrict the types of business the company can engage in, so it does not limit the company from expanding into other areas. If there are significant changes in the company’s operations, a form can be submitted to update the nature of the business.

How can I know if the company has been established?

You can check the status of the company on the Hong Kong Companies Registry website or you can commission us to conduct the search. There is no charge for this type of search.

Company Name

Can simplified Chinese characters be used for the Chinese name of a limited company?

No, the Chinese name of the company must be in traditional Chinese characters.

Can a limited company be registered with only a Chinese name or an English name?

Yes, but it is recommended to prioritize the English name, as some bank accounts require a registered English name.

Does the name of a limited company have to be related to the scope of the business activities?

 It is not necessary.

Can the company name be changed after it is established?

Yes. You can submit the form to the Companies Registry to change the company name. The approval time is about 5 working days, and the government fee is HKD 295.

What is the difference between a "company name" and a "business company"?

The company name and business name can be the same or different. For example, Adam Ho Limited might be the company name, while the business name could be AC Accounting.

When registering the company, it is not necessary to fill in the business name; the government should be notified of the business name and nature of business after the company commences operations (the business must be reported to the government within one month of opening).

Does a company name have to include the words "Limited" or "有限公司"?

In Hong Kong, the name of a limited company must include the phrase “有限公司” or the English word “Limited” to indicate that the shareholders’ liability for the company’s future debts is limited.

In what language can a company name be registered?

A company name can be registered in either English or Chinese, and may include Arabic numerals, but cannot be a mix of Chinese and English.

Registered Share Capital

What is registered capital?

Shareholders must fully pay for the issued shares in accordance with their shareholding proportions. The registered capital is the debt liability that a limited company is required to fulfill in the future.

How much registered capital is needed to start a company?

Hong Kong legislation does not impose significant restrictions on the registered capital for private limited companies. Generally speaking, the larger the registered capital, the greater the public confidence in the company. The minimum amount of registered capital for a Hong Kong limited liability company is HK$1.

What government fees are required when increasing registered capital?

There are no government fees for increasing registered capital.

Is capital verification required for company registered capital?

For limited companies in Hong Kong, no matter the amount of registered capital, capital verification is not required.

Can shares be transferred?

Yes. For details on the transfer, please contact us for inquiries.

Company Registered Address

Is a commercial address required to open a company?

It is not necessarily required to rent an office, but a Hong Kong registered address is needed. AC Accounting can provide a company registered address service that complies with the requirements of the Hong Kong Companies Ordinance.

Can the registered address be changed?

Yes.

Directors and Shareholders

What is the difference between directors and shareholders?

Directors and shareholders have significant differences in rights and responsibilities within a company. Simply put, shareholders are the owners of the company, while directors are the executors of the company’s business.

A director and a shareholder can also be the same person.

Can the same person serve as both a shareholder and a director?

Yes.

How many shareholders and directors must a limited company have at a minimum?

A limited company must have at least one shareholder and one director; the shareholder can also serve as the director。

Can non-Hong Kong residents become shareholders and directors of a Hong Kong limited company?

As long as they are over the age of 18 and hold a passport or ID card, Chinese residents or overseas individuals can become shareholders or directors of a Hong Kong limited company, except for those who are bankrupt.

Can a limited company act as a shareholder or director of another limited company?

Yes.

Annual Awards

Outstanding Chinese Enterprise of the Year 2023
(一帶一路傑出華人企業)

The Most Valuabble Brand (Asia Pacific) of the Year 2023
(最具價值亞太創業品牌)

Asia’s Most Valuable Services for the Year 2022
(亞太區最有價值服務)

The Most Reputable Professional Accounting Firm for the Year 2022
(最具信譽專業會計公司)

Most Reliable Accounting And Corporate Services of the Year 2021
(最可靠會計及企業服務)

HKMOS Awards
(最優秀服務大獎 2021)

Famous Brands Hong Kong
(香港著名品牌 2021)

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毅思會計 – 以專業貢獻社群，用心服務每位客戶

 

“Professional Service, Personal Dedication”

Established in 2013, AC Accounting provides one-stop, high-quality services to entrepreneurs and SMEs. Over the years, we have served a diverse range of clients and received numerous awards. We firmly believe that keeping pace with the times is essential for business development and growth.




Contact Us

  • Unit 1806, 18/F., 9 Wing Hong Street, Cheung Sha Wan, Kowloon, Hong Kong
  • +852 3580 1380 (Telephone)
  • +852 6706 0903 (WhatsApp)
  • +852 3460 0216 (Fax)
  • info@acaccountinghk.com
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