Everything Corpy covers for Hong Kong, checked against the Companies Registry, the Inland Revenue Department and the Immigration Department.
A private company limited by shares is incorporated online through the Companies Registry, usually within four working days. It needs a Hong Kong company secretary and registered office.
Read the company formation guide →Corporate taxProfits tax is 8.25% on the first HK$2 million and 16.5% above. Only Hong Kong-sourced profit is taxed, and there is no VAT, capital gains tax or dividend withholding.
Read the corporate tax guide →Business lawsEvery company must have its accounts audited each year, keep a significant controllers register, and file an annual return with the Companies Registry.
Read the business laws guide →Free zones & incentivesThe whole territory is a free port with no general customs tariff. Incentives target specific sectors, such as concessionary rates for funds, treasury centres and shipping.
Read the free zones & incentives guide →Banking & financeHSBC, Standard Chartered and Bank of China (HK) run strict onboarding for non-residents. Virtual banks and payment platforms open faster but offer less.
Read the banking & finance guide →Visas & residencyFounders usually apply under the General Employment Policy as entrepreneurs. The Top Talent Pass and the Capital Investment Entrant Scheme serve other profiles.
Read the visas & residency guide →Hong Kong has one of the simplest tax systems anywhere, and incorporation is quick. The friction comes later: a mandatory annual audit and bank onboarding that can take months for non-residents.
| Incorporation (e-Registry) | HK$1,545 |
|---|---|
| Business Registration fee | About HK$2,200 / yr |
| Company secretary and office | HK$5,000–15,000 / yr |
| Annual audit, small company | HK$8,000–25,000 |
Indicative ranges. Estimate yours →
Yes. There are no nationality or residence rules for shareholders or directors, but the company secretary must live in Hong Kong or be a Hong Kong company.
No. Hong Kong has no sales tax, VAT or GST, and no tax on dividends or capital gains.
Yes. Every Hong Kong company must have its financial statements audited by a certified public accountant each year, regardless of size.
Only if the profit is genuinely sourced outside Hong Kong. You must claim and support it with evidence, and the IRD reviews these claims closely.
Often two to eight weeks with a traditional bank, and longer if the business has no Hong Kong activity. Virtual banks and payment platforms are faster.
Most apply as entrepreneurs under the General Employment Policy, showing a business plan, funding and local benefit such as jobs or investment.
