The most popular company set up in Hong Kong is company limited by shares. The main advantage of such companies is the fact that they are not considered offshore companies, unlike e.g. IBC, because companies established in Hong Kong do not pay tax only if the income is obtained outside the territory of the country. In Hong Kong, taxation is based on the territorial source principle, which in short means that taxation is applied to the incomes that have their source in Hong Kong. Incomes generated outside of Hong Kong are not taxed even if they “enter” Hong Kong. The companies are well perceived also because Hong Kong is Asia’s main financial centre and many international companies have their seats or branches here.
Companies limited by shares registered in Hong Kong have simple, clear structure. To set up a company, you need one shareholder, one director and a secretary. Even though information on the persons appear in the register of entrepreneurs, it is possible to maintain full confidentiality by using nominee services, which is a common practice here.
Companies in Hong Kong have to keep accounting books and submit annual financial statements that clearly demonstrate validity of all transactions.
Every company has to have a Business Registration Certificate and has to be registered in a tax office. The registration certificate has to be renewed every year.
Company formation in Hong Kong usually takes 15 days.
Advantages of having a Hong Kong Company Limited by Shares:
Nominee
In Hong Kong, nominee services are known and used, mostly because each company has to have a secretary who by law has to be a resident. A secretary may be both a legal and a physical person. We encourage all our clients to use secretary services carried out through our company registered in Hong Kong.
In Hong Kong, you are also allowed to register companies with nominee directors and nominee shareholders, which we recommend to all those who want to do business maintaining full anonymity. In Hong Kong, this is particularly important, as director and shareholder data appears in the business register and is publicly available. By using our nominee services, you are guaranteed 100% discretion, which translates into asset protection and tax optimisation in the country of residence.
Companies in Hong Kong are established fast, this is possible in just two days + the time needed to courier you documents.
Shelfcompanies24 offers comprehensive services and our role is not limited merely to company sale. We will assist you in keeping accounting books, preparing board and shareholder meeting documents, provide a company secretary, nominee director and nominee shareholder and also assist you in opening a bank account.
As we value our clients’ time, we get to work right after receiving payment and required documents.
In Hong Kong, it is possible to purchase a company and set up a new company remotely. Thanks to this solution you save time and money, and we on our part guarantee to take care of everything.
Shelfcompanies24 are experts active in many areas. We encourage you to get in touch with us to obtain business and tax advisory.
Just drop us an email or give us a call and we will send you short list of information that we need. After you provide it to us you can come anytime to proceed with the formalities.
Establishing a new company in Hong Kong is a structured process that typically takes 1-3 business days. ShelfCompanies24 handles the entire formation process on your behalf, from preparing the articles of association to registering with all relevant authorities.
The following legal structures are available for company formation in Hong Kong:
| Company Type | Description |
|---|---|
| Private Limited Company, Branch, Representative Office | |
The minimum share capital requirement is HKD 1 (no minimum).
Companies formed in Hong Kong are subject to a corporate tax rate of 8.25% on first HKD 2M, 16.5% above. The standard VAT rate is No VAT/GST. The currency is HKD (Hong Kong Dollar, pegged to USD).
Standard company formation in Hong Kong takes approximately 1-3 business days. For exact pricing tailored to your specific requirements, please contact our consultants.
Company registration in Hong Kong typically takes 1-3 business days. ShelfCompanies24 handles the entire process on your behalf.
You will need valid passport copies, proof of address, description of business activities, and proof of source of funds. Our team guides you through all documentation requirements.
Yes, foreign nationals can establish companies in Hong Kong. There are generally no restrictions on foreign ownership of Hong Kong companies.
The minimum capital requirement in Hong Kong is HKD 1 (no minimum). Our consultants can advise on the optimal capital structure for your business.
