How to Form a Company in Hong Kong

Understanding Hong Kong's Business Environment

Hong Kong is consistently ranked as one of the world’s easiest places to do business. Its reputation is built on a low-tax regime, strategic location, and efficient legal system. For entrepreneurs and foreign investors alike, it offers a gateway to mainland China while maintaining an independent business framework under the “One Country, Two Systems” principle.

One key reason startups and global firms choose Hong Kong is its simple and predictable tax system. There’s no VAT, no capital gains tax, and corporate profits tax is capped at 16.5%. This allows businesses to reinvest more and grow faster.

Additionally, the city boasts a transparent regulatory environment. The government imposes minimal restrictions on foreign ownership, and setting up a company—whether local or offshore—can often be done within 1–2 business days.

Hong Kong’s infrastructure is another advantage. It offers world-class banking, legal, and logistics support, all within a timezone that overlaps with major Asian markets. Whether you're launching a digital agency or an import-export firm, the support ecosystem is already in place.

In summary, Hong Kong’s business environment is built for speed, simplicity, and global reach—making it an ideal launchpad for both local startups and international expansions.

Choosing the Right Business Structure

Before registering a company in Hong Kong, it’s important to understand the different business structures available—and which one suits your goals. Each structure has its own legal and tax implications, and choosing the wrong one can limit your growth or expose you to unnecessary risk.

Common Business Structures in Hong Kong:

Sole Proprietorship
Best for freelancers or one-person businesses with low liability risk. It's simple to set up and maintain, but the owner is personally liable for all debts and obligations.
Partnership
Suitable for two or more individuals running a business together. Like sole proprietorships, partnerships offer ease of setup but come with shared personal liability unless registered as a limited partnership.
Private Limited Company (Ltd.)
The most common and flexible structure for startups and SMEs. A limited company is treated as a separate legal entity, meaning your personal assets are protected. It also boosts credibility and allows for easier fundraising.

Example: If you're starting a digital marketing agency and plan to bring in investors or hire a team, a private limited company is typically the best option.

Why Most Businesses Choose a Private Limited Company

Separate Legal Identity – The company can own property, enter contracts, and sue or be sued in its own name.
Limited Liability – Your personal risk is limited to the capital you invested.
Greater Business Credibility – Especially useful when dealing with clients, banks, or government agencies.
Access to Funding – Easier to attract investors or apply for business loans.

Key Takeaway

For most entrepreneurs—especially those with plans to scale—a private limited company offers the most benefits in terms of legal protection, professionalism, and future growth potential. However, if you're just testing a business idea with minimal risk, starting as a sole proprietor can be a good stepping stone.

Selecting a Unique Company Name

Your company name is more than just a label—it’s a legal identity and a first impression. In Hong Kong, choosing a name involves more than creativity. It must meet regulatory requirements, be distinguishable from existing entities, and reflect your brand's purpose.

company name

Naming Rules You Must Follow

Before committing to a name, it’s essential to understand the restrictions set by the Hong Kong Companies Registry:

The name must not be identical to any existing company already registered.
It must not contain offensive or misleading words, or imply government affiliation (e.g., “Government,” “Council”).
Names can be in English, Chinese, or both, but mixing languages within a single name (e.g., combining English words with Chinese characters) is not allowed.
The name should end with “Limited” if registering a private limited company.

Tip: Even if you plan to use a brand name publicly, your legal company name must follow the Companies Registry’s formal structure.

How to Check Name Availability

The Companies Registry offers a free online Company Name Search tool. Here’s how to use it:

Visit the Cyber Search Centre on the Companies Registry website.
Input your desired name in both English and Chinese (if applicable).
Review similar names to ensure yours is not “too alike” to existing ones.

If your name is too similar to another company’s, the registry may reject it—even if it’s technically not identical. So check carefully.

Legal vs. Brand Name: What’s the Difference?

Many Hong Kong companies register a formal legal name, then operate publicly under a separate business or trading name. For example:

Legal name: Green Horizon Consultancy Limited
Brand name: Green Horizon

As long as the trading name is not misleading and complies with advertising regulations, this is perfectly acceptable.

Why Your Name Choice Matters

Aside from legal approval, a clear and unique name helps customers remember you, reduces confusion in the marketplace, and builds brand trust. Changing it later involves paperwork, cost, and reputational risk—so get it right from the start.

Appointing Directors and Shareholders

A Hong Kong private limited company must appoint at least one director and one shareholder. These two roles form the foundation of your company’s ownership and management structure. Getting this step right is not just a legal formality—it impacts how decisions are made and how liability is distributed.

shareholders

Director Requirements and Responsibilities

Every Hong Kong company must have at least one individual director. Corporate directors (i.e. other companies) are not allowed in private companies. There are no nationality or residency requirements, meaning foreign directors are fully permitted.

Key responsibilities include:

Overseeing company operations and ensuring legal compliance
Signing important documents and making decisions on behalf of the company
Filing annual returns and financial statements

Example: If you're the sole founder of a startup, you can appoint yourself as the sole director to retain full control in the early stage.

Shareholders: Who Can Own the Company?

A private limited company in Hong Kong can have 1 to 50 shareholders. These can be individuals or corporate entities, and there are no residency restrictions. A director can also be a shareholder, which is common for small businesses.

Shareholders are the owners of the company. They invest capital in return for shares and have voting rights based on their ownership percentage. However, they do not handle day-to-day operations unless they are also directors.

Important Points to Consider

Minimum Age: Directors and shareholders must be at least 18 years old.
Corporate Shareholding: A Hong Kong or foreign company can act as a shareholder.
Nominee Options: You may appoint nominee shareholders or directors for privacy, but legal ownership and responsibilities still apply behind the scenes.

Issuing and Allocating Shares

You must declare the company’s share capital during incorporation. This includes:

The total amount of capital the company is authorized to issue
The number of shares issued to each shareholder and their nominal value (often HKD 1 per share)

There is no minimum capital requirement in Hong Kong. Many companies choose to start with HKD 1,000 capital divided into 1,000 shares.

Transparency and Public Records

All director and shareholder information is kept on public record. While directors can apply for partial protection of their residential address under the Companies Ordinance, shareholder details remain publicly accessible unless you use a nominee.

Designating a Company Secretary and Registered Address

In Hong Kong, every private limited company is legally required to appoint a company secretary and maintain a registered office address. These aren’t just formalities—they play a critical role in ensuring ongoing legal compliance and smooth communication with government authorities.

Why You Need a Company Secretary

A company secretary is responsible for handling the company’s statutory records, annual filings, and corporate governance tasks. While they don’t manage business operations, they ensure the company stays compliant with the Companies Ordinance.

Here are the key responsibilities:

Preparing and submitting the Annual Return (Form NAR1)
Maintaining the Register of Directors, Shareholders, and Significant Controllers
Updating the Companies Registry on changes (e.g., share allotments, directorship changes)
Organizing board meetings and documenting minutes when required

Example: If your business structure is simple and you're the only director, outsourcing company secretarial duties to a professional firm is a common and cost-effective option.

Who Can Be Appointed?

The secretary must be a Hong Kong resident or a Hong Kong-registered company. A sole director cannot also serve as the company secretary. However, if your company has more than one director, one of them may take on the role.

Most startups appoint a professional service provider to act as the company secretary. This ensures proper documentation is handled even if you’re based overseas.

Requirements for a Registered Office Address

You must also provide a local Hong Kong address that will act as the company’s registered office. This address is used by the Companies Registry and Inland Revenue Department for all official correspondence.

The registered address must:

Be a physical location in Hong Kong (P.O. Boxes are not accepted)
Be accessible during business hours for the delivery of legal documents
Match the address stated in your incorporation documents

Note: Many foreign-owned startups use their service provider’s address during incorporation, then change it later once they establish a physical office.

Can You Change These Later?

Yes. Both the company secretary and the registered address can be changed after incorporation by filing the appropriate forms:

Form NR1 for change of address
Form ND2A or board resolution for change of secretary

However, these changes must be filed within 15 days of the effective date, or penalties may apply.

Preparing Incorporation Documents

Once you’ve finalized your company name, selected your directors and shareholders, and arranged a company secretary and address, the next step is preparing the incorporation documents. These documents are essential to legally establish your business with the Hong Kong Companies Registry.

What Are the Key Documents You Need?

To form a private limited company in Hong Kong, you must prepare and submit the following:

Form NNC1 (Incorporation Form)
This is the primary application form. It includes essential company details such as the name, type of company, registered address, director(s), shareholder(s), company secretary, and share capital breakdown.
Articles of Association
This document outlines the company’s internal governance structure. It sets rules for director roles, shareholder rights, meeting procedures, and how shares can be transferred. Most companies use the Model Articles provided by the government, but you can customize them if needed.
Copy of the Founders’ Identity Documents
For individual directors or shareholders: Passport or Hong Kong ID.
For corporate shareholders: Business registration and company documents.

Tip: Even if you're using a professional service provider to handle your incorporation, you should review these documents before signing to ensure accuracy.

Digital or Paper Submission?

You can submit your incorporation documents in one of two ways:

Online via the e-Registry (https://www.eregistry.gov.hk)
This is the fastest and most efficient method. Most companies are approved within 1–2 business days.
In Person or by Mail at the Companies Registry
If you prefer or need to submit in hard copy, be prepared for a longer processing time—generally 4–5 working days.

Both methods require the same information, but online filing offers the advantage of real-time tracking and faster issuance of the Certificate of Incorporation.

Common Mistakes to Avoid

Mismatch of names between ID documents and application forms
Missing signatures or incomplete Articles of Association
Using outdated forms (always download the latest version from the Companies Registry website)

Mistakes can lead to delays or rejection, so double-check everything—or better, have a professional review it.

Submitting the Application to the Companies Registry

Once all required documents are prepared, the next step is to officially submit your application to the Hong Kong Companies Registry. This step transforms your business idea into a legal entity. To avoid delays, it’s essential to follow the correct procedure and meet all formal requirements.

Submission Options: Online or Offline

You have two ways to file your incorporation documents:

1. Online via the e-Registry

The e-Registry is the fastest and most convenient method. It’s available 24/7 and supports secure electronic submission.

Go to www.eregistry.gov.hk
Register for an account
Upload Form NNC1 and your Articles of Association in PDF format
Sign digitally using the e-Cert (or use a professional agent’s login)

Typical processing time: 1–2 business days

2. In Person or by Mail

If you prefer hard copy submission, you can deliver your documents directly to:

Companies Registry
14th Floor, Queensway Government Offices,
66 Queensway, Hong Kong

Include:

Completed and signed Form NNC1
One printed copy of the Articles of Association
A cheque for the incorporation fee payable to “The Government of the HKSAR”

Typical processing time: 4–5 business days

Fees and Payment

As of writing, the standard fee for incorporating a private company limited by shares is HKD 1,720 (HKD 1,545 if filed online). Always check the latest fee table before submission.

Payment methods:

Online: Credit card or PPS
Offline: Cheque or cash at the counter (if filing in person)

After Submission: What to Expect

If your application is approved, you’ll receive two key documents:

Certificate of Incorporation (issued by the Companies Registry)
Business Registration Certificate (issued by the Inland Revenue Department)

If filed online, you’ll get digital copies via email. For paper submissions, you’ll need to pick them up or request delivery.

Tip: Once these certificates are issued, your company is officially formed. You can now open a bank account, hire employees, and begin operations.

Avoiding Rejection

Common reasons for delays or rejections include:

Incomplete or inconsistent information on Form NNC1
Typos in personal details or company name
Invalid or outdated documents

Double-check all entries and consider using a professional agency if you’re unsure. It may cost a little more, but it reduces risk and saves time.

Obtaining the Business Registration Certificate

Once your company is incorporated, the next essential step is to obtain a Business Registration Certificate from the Inland Revenue Department (IRD). This document is legally required for all businesses operating in Hong Kong and must be displayed at your principal place of business.

What Is the Business Registration Certificate?

The Business Registration Certificate (BRC) is a government-issued document that proves your company is legally recognized as a business entity in Hong Kong. It includes:

Your company name
Business registration number
Type of business (e.g. limited company)
Registered address
Date of commencement
Validity period (usually one year or three years)

Note: The BRC is different from the Certificate of Incorporation. Both are mandatory but issued by separate departments—Companies Registry for incorporation, IRD for business registration.

How to Apply for It

In most cases, if you submit your incorporation documents through the e-Registry, your application for the Business Registration Certificate is processed automatically at the same time. You don’t need to apply separately.

However, if you’re not forming a limited company (e.g., sole proprietorship or partnership), or you're registering a branch office, you’ll need to apply manually by completing Form IRBR37 and submitting it to the Business Registration Office.

Submission Methods:

Online (Integrated with e-Incorporation)
Processing time: 1–2 working days
Certificate issued digitally
In Person or by Mail
Address:
Business Registration Office
Inland Revenue Department
G/F, Revenue Tower, 5 Gloucester Road, Wan Chai, Hong Kong
Processing time: 2–4 working days

Fees and Validity

You can choose either a 1-year or 3-year registration. Fees are subject to periodic adjustments. As of now:

1-year certificate: HKD 2,250
3-year certificate: HKD 5,950

For the latest updates on business registration fees, visit the Inland Revenue Department’s official site.

Renewal and Compliance

Your Business Registration Certificate must be renewed before it expires. The IRD typically sends a renewal notice one month prior to the expiration date. If you fail to renew on time, your business may face penalties or legal action.

Also, any changes to your company—such as address, business nature, or ownership—must be reported to the IRD within 1 month using Form IRBR64.

Opening a Corporate Bank Account

Once your Hong Kong company is officially registered, the next practical step is to open a corporate bank account. This account allows your business to send and receive payments, manage expenses, and stay compliant with accounting and tax rules. However, due to strict anti-money laundering laws, opening a business bank account in Hong Kong involves more documentation and review than most founders expect.

Why a Corporate Account Is Essential

Keeps business and personal finances separate
Required for issuing invoices and receiving payments
Necessary for applying for business loans or merchant accounts
Helps you track cash flow and prepare tax filings accurately

Tip: Even if your business is small or newly incorporated, a corporate account is essential for credibility and financial management.

What Documents Do You Need?

Most banks will require a standard set of documents, including:

Certificate of Incorporation
Business Registration Certificate
Articles of Association
Identification documents of all directors, shareholders, and authorized signatories
Proof of business activity (invoices, contracts, a website, or business plan)
Registered office address proof (e.g., tenancy agreement or utility bill)

Some banks may ask for additional documentation if your company structure involves overseas directors, corporate shareholders, or high-risk industries.

Can You Apply Online?

Hong Kong banks are cautious when it comes to corporate accounts. Most still require in-person meetings, although some digital banks or fintech platforms now offer remote onboarding.

Options Available:

Traditional Banks: HSBC, Standard Chartered, Bank of China
- Known for stability and full-service offerings
- Longer application time and stricter vetting
Digital Banks / Virtual Banks: ZA Bank, Airwallex, Statrys
- Faster onboarding and more startup-friendly
- Limited cash handling and fewer international services

Example: A tech startup with remote founders and no local staff might find success with a virtual bank like Statrys or Airwallex, while a trading company handling high-value international transfers may prefer HSBC.

Application Timeline and Fees

Timeline: 1 to 4 weeks, depending on the bank and complexity of your company
Minimum deposit: Some banks require HKD 10,000 or more to open the account
Maintenance fees: Expect monthly charges unless your balance stays above a set threshold

Challenges and Solutions

Challenge: Banks rejecting applications without clear evidence of operations
Solution: Prepare a detailed business plan and supply genuine supporting materials (e.g. contracts or website) even if your company is new
Challenge: Delays in scheduling meetings or unclear account requirements
Solution: Work with a local corporate services provider who can guide the process and recommend suitable banks

Understanding Tax Obligations and Compliance

Registering a business in Hong Kong is just the beginning. Staying compliant with the city’s tax laws is equally important to maintain good standing and avoid penalties. The good news? Hong Kong has one of the world’s simplest and most business-friendly tax systems. But you still need to understand how it works and what your responsibilities are.

Key Taxes for Hong Kong Companies

Here are the main taxes a private limited company may be subject to:

Profits Tax
This is the core corporate tax in Hong Kong. It applies only to income derived from or earned in Hong Kong.

Rates (as of now):
- 8.25% on the first HKD 2 million in assessable profits
- 16.5% on the remainder
There is no tax on offshore profits (if substantiated), capital gains, dividends, or sales tax.
Salaries Tax
If your company hires staff, you must withhold and report employee income for salaries tax purposes. This is separate from profits tax but part of your compliance duties as an employer.
Employer Obligations
Employers must file the Employer’s Return (Form IR56B) annually and provide tax forms to employees.

Annual Tax Filing Requirements

All Hong Kong companies are required to:

Prepare annual financial statements
These must comply with Hong Kong Financial Reporting Standards. Even if your company hasn’t traded, you must still prepare “dormant” accounts.
Conduct an audit
Every Hong Kong private limited company must appoint a certified public accountant to audit its books before filing tax returns.
File Profits Tax Return (PTR)
The Inland Revenue Department issues the first PTR 18 months after incorporation. After that, it’s due annually, typically in April.
Renew your Business Registration Certificate
Business registration must be renewed either yearly or every three years, depending on what you selected during incorporation.

Offshore Profits Claim: A Special Case

If your company operates outside Hong Kong (e.g., servicing overseas clients, using no local staff or suppliers), you might be eligible to file an offshore claim. If approved by the IRD, your profits may be tax-exempt.

Note: Offshore claims must be backed by strong documentation—contracts, invoices, and proof of operations conducted outside Hong Kong.

Penalties for Non-Compliance

Failing to meet deadlines or underreporting income can result in:

Late filing fees
Interest charges on unpaid tax
Fines or prosecution in serious cases

Example: A company that fails to submit audited accounts with its PTR can face fines of up to HKD 10,000 and daily penalties until submission.

Tips for Staying Compliant

Hire a licensed CPA to prepare your audit and handle submissions
Keep thorough records—contracts, receipts, payroll, and bank statements
Use accounting software for real-time tracking and easy reporting
Mark your calendar with filing deadlines and renewal dates

Maintaining Statutory Records and Annual Returns

Forming a company in Hong Kong doesn’t end with incorporation. To stay compliant, every company must maintain proper statutory records and submit annual returns to the Companies Registry. These requirements ensure your business remains in good legal standing—and failure to comply can lead to penalties or even striking off.

What Are Statutory Records?

Statutory records are official documents that capture key corporate information. They must be kept at the company’s registered office or a designated location in Hong Kong.

These records include:

Register of Directors
Register of Shareholders (Members)
Register of Company Secretary
Register of Significant Controllers
Minute books documenting shareholder and board meetings
Share certificates and allotment records

You must update these records whenever changes occur—such as new appointments, share transfers, or changes in registered address.

Note: The Register of Significant Controllers is a legal requirement under Hong Kong’s anti-money laundering laws. It must be accessible by law enforcement upon request.

Filing the Annual Return (Form NAR1)

Every private limited company must file an Annual Return (Form NAR1) with the Companies Registry. This form updates the government on the company’s structure and management.

Key facts:

Due once a year within 42 days after the anniversary of incorporation
Filed online or by paper
Includes details of the company’s directors, secretary, registered address, and shareholding structure
A filing fee is required (HKD 105 if submitted on time)

If you miss the deadline, late fees start at HKD 870 and increase the longer you wait.

Common Mistakes and How to Avoid Them

Mistake: Forgetting to update statutory records after director or shareholder changes
Fix: Assign this task to your company secretary or set internal alerts after major updates.
Mistake: Assuming a dormant company doesn’t need to file an annual return
Fix: Annual returns are still required—even if the company is inactive or non-trading.
Mistake: Using outdated forms or missing new compliance rules
Fix: Always download the latest forms from www.cr.gov.hk or use a trusted service provider.

Best Practices for Compliance

Keep digital and physical backups of all records
Use a professional firm for company secretarial services if you’re based overseas
Log every board resolution, share transfer, or appointment as it happens
Conduct an internal compliance review at least once a year

Applying for Necessary Licenses and Permits

Not every business in Hong Kong needs a special license to operate—but for those that do, it’s a non-negotiable legal requirement. Whether you're running a restaurant, offering financial services, or starting an education center, securing the right licenses ensures you stay compliant and avoid fines or shutdowns.

Does Your Business Need a License?

The need for a license depends on your industry and the activities your company will carry out. Here are some common business types in Hong Kong that require special permits or licenses:

Retail and Food & Beverage
(e.g. restaurants, cafes, supermarkets)
→ Require Food Factory License, Liquor License, or Import/Export Licenses
Education and Training
(e.g. private tutors, learning centers)
→ Require registration with the Education Bureau
Finance and Investment Services
(e.g. forex trading, investment advisory, crypto exchanges)
→ Regulated by the Securities and Futures Commission (SFC)
Healthcare Services
(e.g. physiotherapy, beauty clinics, dental services)
→ Regulated by the Department of Health
Import/Export Companies
→ Require Trade and Industry Department registration, especially for dutiable or restricted goods

Example: If you plan to operate an online shop that sells alcohol, you’ll need an Import License and a Liquor License—even if your store is fully digital.

Where to Apply

Hong Kong does not have a one-stop portal for all business licenses. Each license must be applied for through its respective government department or authority.

Here’s how to approach it:

Determine applicable licenses
Use the GovHK Business License Information Service to search by business type.
Prepare documentation
Requirements vary, but typically include your Business Registration Certificate, identity documents, business plan, premises information (if applicable), and professional qualifications (if required).
Submit applications
Most licenses can be applied for in person or online, depending on the department.
Allow time for approval
Approval time can range from 7 days to 2 months, depending on the license and complexity of your case.

Common Mistakes to Avoid

Assuming a business license isn’t needed just because you're working online
Choosing a company name that implies licensed services (e.g. “Insurance Solutions Ltd.”) without having the license to support it
Failing to renew time-limited permits or licenses annually

Tip: Some industries require additional inspections—like fire safety or hygiene audits—before a license is granted.

What Happens If You Operate Without a License?

Penalties for operating without a required license can include:

Heavy fines (up to HKD 100,000 or more depending on the license)
Business closure orders
Permanent disqualification from certain industries
Criminal prosecution in severe cases

Leveraging Professional Services for Incorporation

Setting up a company in Hong Kong is relatively straightforward—but it’s not always simple. Between choosing the right structure, preparing compliant documents, and staying on top of regulatory filings, many entrepreneurs turn to professional incorporation services for support. This is especially true for overseas founders or busy business owners who can’t spare time for paperwork.

What Do Professional Services Typically Offer?

Company formation firms and business consultants help with every step of the incorporation process, often bundling multiple services together.

Typical services include:

Name availability check and business advisory
Preparation and submission of incorporation forms (e.g., Form NNC1, Articles of Association)
Appointment of nominee director or shareholder (if privacy is a concern)
Provision of company secretary and registered office address
Business Registration Certificate application
Opening of corporate bank accounts (or referral to banks with a higher approval rate)
Ongoing compliance support—annual returns, audits, and license renewals

Example: A founder based in the UK might use a Hong Kong incorporation agent to handle the entire process remotely, from digital document preparation to couriering the business registration certificates.

When Should You Consider Outsourcing?

Using professional help makes the most sense when:

You’re not physically located in Hong Kong and need local representation
Your business structure is complex (e.g. multiple shareholders, offshore holding companies)
You’re unfamiliar with legal or tax requirements in Hong Kong
You want to save time and avoid costly mistakes during setup

How Much Do These Services Cost?

Prices vary by provider, complexity, and the level of customization required. However, most packages fall into the following ranges:

Basic incorporation only: HKD 2,000 – 4,000
Full-service package (with secretary, address, and BRC): HKD 5,000 – 10,000
Ongoing compliance and audit support: Billed separately or as part of an annual plan

Always confirm if government fees (e.g., Companies Registry or IRD charges) are included or billed separately.

How to Choose a Reliable Incorporation Partner

To ensure you work with a reputable service provider, consider the following:

Experience with international clients
Transparent pricing with no hidden fees
Inclusion of post-incorporation support (e.g., bank account guidance)
Availability of licensed CPAs or company secretaries on staff
Client reviews or third-party recommendations

Tip: Avoid firms offering “guaranteed” bank account openings. Banks make independent decisions, and no agent can promise approval.

Final Steps After Incorporation

You’ve received your Certificate of Incorporation and Business Registration Certificate—your company is now officially formed. But before you start trading, there are a few final steps that ensure your business is fully operational, compliant, and set up for success.

Set Up Your Accounting System

Even if you haven’t made your first sale yet, it's important to organize your accounting from day one. This helps with financial reporting, tax filings, and business planning.

Choose a cloud-based accounting system (e.g., Xero, QuickBooks, or Wave)
Set up categories for income, expenses, payroll, and tax payments
If you're unfamiliar with local tax rules, consider hiring a CPA early on

Tip: Make sure all expenses—including incorporation costs—are recorded properly. They may be deductible.

Design Company Materials

Prepare your business essentials so you’re ready to operate professionally from the outset.

Create a company stamp or chop (often used in official documents)
Design company letterhead, invoices, and official email addresses
Build your company website and ensure it reflects your registration details, especially for regulated industries

Example: If you’re opening a Hong Kong-based consulting firm, having a website with your BR number and contact info listed adds legitimacy and satisfies some client due diligence checks.

Register for MPF (If Hiring)

If your business plans to hire employees in Hong Kong, you are legally required to:

Register with a Mandatory Provident Fund (MPF) provider
Enroll employees into the scheme within 60 days of hire
Contribute monthly to each employee’s MPF account

Failure to comply can result in penalties from the MPFA (Mandatory Provident Fund Schemes Authority).

Open a Business Insurance Policy

While not always mandatory, securing business insurance is a smart risk management step. Consider policies such as:

Public liability insurance
Employee compensation insurance (mandatory if you have staff)
Cybersecurity and data protection coverage if you handle sensitive customer data

Inform Relevant Parties

Finally, notify key stakeholders that your business is active:

Inform suppliers, clients, and partners of your incorporation
Update your LinkedIn, business directories, and email signatures
Add your business to Google Maps and online listings (if applicable)