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How to Incorporate a Company in Hong Kong

A modern gateway between East and West


When I first visited Hong Kong years ago, what struck me most wasn’t the skyline — it was the rhythm. Everything moved quickly, but somehow with precision. The same goes for doing business here: fast, structured, and globally connected.


Today, Hong Kong stands as one of the world’s easiest places to start and manage a company — especially for entrepreneurs who want an Asian presence with Western-level efficiency.



Why Hong Kong?


Hong Kong isn’t just another offshore destination. It’s a major financial hub, known for its transparent legal system, simple tax regime, and unrestricted capital movement.


Some quick facts:

  • Corporate tax rate: 8.25%–16.5% (only on profits earned in Hong Kong)

  • No VAT, no capital gains tax, no withholding tax

  • 100% foreign ownership allowed — no local partner required

  • Open banking and fintech-friendly ecosystem

  • Recognized and trusted by international institutions and marketplaces


It’s one of those places where a company can be global from day one.



How the Incorporation Process Works


The process is surprisingly smooth — especially if handled remotely. Here’s the short version:

  1. Choose your company name – check availability with the Companies Registry.

  2. Appoint a local company secretary and registered address – this is required by law.

  3. Prepare and file the incorporation documents – the Articles of Association and the Incorporation Form.

  4. Receive your Certificate of Incorporation – usually within 3–5 working days.

  5. Open a corporate bank account – either locally or with a digital bank like Airwallex, Statrys, or Wise Business.

  6. Register for business license and tax filings – handled online through the Inland Revenue Department (IRD).


That’s it — your Hong Kong Limited company is ready to trade, invoice, and receive international payments.



A Real Story: From Lisbon to Hong Kong


One of our clients, Daniel, runs a small digital agency in Lisbon. He wanted to expand into Asian markets without taking on the heavy costs of Singapore. We helped him register a Hong Kong Limited remotely, using a virtual address and e-signature onboarding. Within a week, he had:

  • A registered company

  • A multicurrency business account (HKD, USD, EUR)

  • Invoicing setup for clients in Singapore and Australia


Six months later, he told me:

“It’s like having a company in the middle of the world — I wake up with messages from Europe, and by noon, I’m invoicing Asia.”

That’s exactly what Hong Kong offers — strategic reach, without friction.



Final Thoughts


Hong Kong isn’t just an “offshore” choice — it’s a bridge between continents. Whether you’re scaling an e-commerce business, consulting for Asian clients, or simply diversifying your company structure, this city still offers what few others do: credibility, efficiency, and freedom to operate globally.


At Northbridge, we help founders navigate that process end to end — from incorporation to banking and tax strategy — so they can focus on growth, not paperwork.


👉 Book a strategy call if you’d like to explore whether a Hong Kong entity fits your international setup.



 
 
 

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