Changing Your Company Name in Hong Kong

Changing your company name in Hong Kong can be a strategic move, whether you're rebranding, restructuring, or aligning your business with new markets. While the process is relatively straightforward, it does require compliance with legal procedures and administrative filings.

This guide outlines the key steps, requirements, and considerations when changing your company’s name under the Hong Kong Companies Ordinance.

Why Change Your Company Name?

Companies in Hong Kong may choose to change their names for several reasons, such as:

• Aligning with a new brand identity or business direction

• Reflecting mergers, acquisitions, or changes in ownership

• Simplifying or modernising the name for marketing purposes

• Complying with regulatory, cultural, or trademark concerns

Regardless of the reason, the change must be properly documented and approved by the Companies Registry.

Key Requirements Before Submitting a Name Change

Before proceeding, consider the following prerequisites:

• Name Availability: The new name must not be identical to or too similar to existing company names in the Companies Registry. You can conduct a name search through the CR's Cyber Search Centre to check availability.

• Compliance: The proposed name must comply with naming guidelines and not contain prohibited or sensitive words without prior approval.

• Board or Shareholder Approval: The name change must be authorised either by board resolution (for directors) or through a special resolution passed by shareholders.

Steps to Change a Company Name in Hong Kong

1. Conduct a Name Search Verify that your proposed company name is available and acceptable under the Companies Ordinance.

2. Pass a Special Resolution Arrange a general meeting of shareholders and pass a special resolution approving the name change. This typically requires at least 75% shareholder approval.

3. File Form NNC2 Submit Form NNC2 – Notice of Change of Company Name to the Companies Registry within 15 days of passing the resolution. This form can be filed:

   • Online via the e-Registry portal

   • In person or by post

4. Receive Certificate of Change of Name Upon approval, the Companies Registry will issue a new Certificate of Change of Name, which legally validates the change.

5. Update Business Records and Licences Once the certificate is received, your company must update:

   • Business registration certificate with the Inland Revenue Department

   • Company signage, letterhead, website, and legal documents

   • Banks, suppliers, customers, and other stakeholders

Timeframe and Fees

• Processing Time: Around 4–7 working days for online submissions; longer for paper filings.

• Government Fee: HKD 295 for the application.

Note that a company can still use its previous name in legal proceedings for a certain period, but operational documents must reflect the new name going forward.

Post-Change Compliance Considerations

After a successful name change, companies should:

• Notify all business partners, government departments, and financial institutions

• Update employment contracts and insurance policies

• Amend internal documents such as the Articles of Association (if necessary)

Maintaining consistency and transparency helps prevent confusion and ensures regulatory compliance.

How Woodburn Can Help

Changing your company’s name in Hong Kong involves more than just paperwork—it’s a legal process that demands accuracy and timely coordination. At Woodburn Accountants & Advisors, we provide end-to-end support for your company name change, including preparing board resolutions, handling filings with the Companies Registry, and updating your business registration with the Inland Revenue Department.

Our expert team ensures your transition is smooth, compliant, and aligned with your business strategy.

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Woodburn Accountants & Advisors is one of China and Hong Kong’s most trusted business setup advisory firms.

Woodburn Accountants & Advisors is specialized in inbound investment to China and Hong Kong. We focus on eliminating the complexities of corporate services and compliance administration. We help clients with services ranging from trademark registration and company incorporation to the full outsourcing solution for accounting, tax, and human resource services. Our advisory services can be tailor-made based on the companies’ objectives, goals and needs which vary depending on the stage they are at on their journey.

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