How to Register a Private Limited Company in Hong Kong

Kristina Coluccia
Aug 14, 2025
3 min read

Hong Kong remains one of the most attractive destinations in Asia for setting up a business, thanks to its low tax regime, transparent legal system, and status as a global financial hub. For entrepreneurs and investors, the private limited company is the most common and advantageous business structure. It provides credibility, limited liability protection, and flexibility in ownership and management.

This guide outlines the key steps and requirements for registering a private limited company in Hong Kong.

Why Choose a Private Limited Company in Hong Kong?

Before diving into the registration process, it is important to understand why most businesses select this structure:

Limited liability: Shareholders’ liability is limited to the amount they invest.
Separate legal entity: The company can own assets, sign contracts, and incur liabilities in its own name.
Ease of ownership transfer: Shares can be transferred without affecting the company’s operations.
Reputation and credibility: A private limited company is often preferred by banks, investors, and business partners.

Key Requirements for Registration

To successfully register a private limited company in Hong Kong, the following must be in place:

Company Name: Must be approved by the Companies Registry. It can be in English, Chinese, or both.
Directors: At least one director (a natural person) is required. Directors can be of any nationality and do not need to be residents of Hong Kong.
Shareholders: A minimum of one and a maximum of 50 shareholders. Shareholders may be individuals or corporations.
Company Secretary: A Hong Kong resident individual or a company with a registered office in Hong Kong must be appointed.
Registered Office Address: A physical address in Hong Kong is required.
Share Capital: No minimum capital requirement, although the standard is HKD 10,000 divided into 10,000 shares.

The Registration Process

Choose and Reserve a Company Name Conduct a name search through the Companies Registry to ensure availability.
Prepare Incorporation Documents These include the Articles of Association, incorporation form (Form NNC1), and copies of directors’ and shareholders’ identification documents.
File with the Companies Registry Submit the incorporation documents and pay the registration fee. Applications can be filed online or in person.
Obtain the Certificate of Incorporation Once approved, the Companies Registry issues a Certificate of Incorporation, legally establishing the company.
Business Registration Certificate Apply for a Business Registration Certificate with the Inland Revenue Department within one month of incorporation.
Post-Incorporation Compliance
- Open a corporate bank account.
- Maintain proper accounting records.
- File annual returns with the Companies Registry.
- Ensure ongoing compliance with Hong Kong’s Companies Ordinance.

Timeline and Costs

The process is relatively fast. Online applications are typically approved within 1–3 working days, while paper applications may take up to 5–7 working days. Costs include government fees and professional service fees if using an agent or consultancy.

How Woodburn Can Support

At Woodburn Global, we guide entrepreneurs and corporations through every step of setting up a private limited company in Hong Kong. From selecting the right structure and preparing incorporation documents to ensuring post-registration compliance, we provide expert support tailored to your needs.

Whether you are expanding internationally or launching a new venture, Woodburn helps you establish a strong foundation for growth in Hong Kong’s dynamic business environment.

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.