Incorporate · Asia

Company Formation in Hong Kong

Territorial low-tax gateway to Mainland China and Asian trade. Review the legal form, tax position, treaty network and indicative cost, then talk to one team that structures it end to end.

Licensed CSP
50+ yrs combined experience
15+ jurisdictions

Corporate tax: 16.5% profits tax
VAT / GST: None
Formation: 1-7 days
Foreign ownership: 100% permitted
Tax treaties: 50+
Setup cost: USD 1,500 - 4,000

At a glance

Common entity: Private Company Limited by Shares
Formation time: 1-7 days
Setup cost: USD 1,500 - 4,000
Annual cost: USD 2,000 - 5,000
Foreign ownership: 100% permitted
Tax treaties: 50+

TradingHolding companyE-commerceFintechIP and licensing

Best for

Trade and sourcing with Mainland China
Regional holding and treasury
E-commerce and cross-border trading

Less ideal for

Founders wanting private ownership off a public registry
Businesses uneasy with tightening banking KYC

Legal and formation

Legal system	Common law
Common entity types	Private Company Limited by Shares
Formation timeline	1-7 days
Minimum capital	HKD 1 (no minimum in practice)
Foreign ownership	100% permitted
Minimum shareholders	1
Minimum directors	1
Local presence	Company secretary and registered office in Hong Kong required
Public registry	Directors and shareholders on the public Companies Registry
Audit	Annual audit required for all companies

Tax profile

Corporate income tax	16.5% profits tax (8.25% on the first HKD 2 million), territorial
VAT / GST	None
Withholding, dividends	0%
Withholding, interest	0%
Withholding, royalties	4.95% - 16.5% (treaty reduced)
Capital gains	Not taxed
Territorial system	Yes
CFC rules	No
Participation exemption	Foreign-source income generally outside the tax net (offshore claim available)

Every figure above is indicative. Rates, thresholds, minimum capital, ownership rules and timelines change and vary by activity, licence and structure. They are confirmed with the relevant authority and in a tailored quote before you rely on them. This is general information, not legal or tax advice.

How to set up in Hong Kong

1
Confirm the company name and appoint a director, shareholder and company secretary
2
Provide a Hong Kong registered office address
3
File incorporation documents with the Companies Registry
4
Obtain the Business Registration Certificate
5
Open a corporate bank account and arrange annual audit

Banking reality

Banking is world class but onboarding KYC has tightened significantly, so traditional banks often require an in-person meeting and clear substance, while virtual banks and EMIs are common alternatives.