Hong Kong is one of the most popular destinations in Asia for entrepreneurs, digital nomads, and global investors. Its strategic location, low taxes, and world-class financial system make it a top choice for international business. Even better? You don’t need to live in Hong Kong to register a company there.

If you're a foreigner or non-resident looking to launch a business, this guide walks you through the company registration in Hong Kong process—step by step.

Why Non-Residents Choose Hong Kong

Before jumping into the process, here are a few reasons why Hong Kong company formation is so attractive to non-residents:

• 100% foreign ownership allowed

• No local residency requirements for directors or shareholders

• Simple tax regime with low corporate tax rates

• No VAT or capital gains tax

• Gateway to Mainland China and Asia-Pacific markets

• World-renowned legal and financial infrastructure

• Easy remote management via digital tools

These benefits make it possible for entrepreneurs from India, the UK, the US, Europe, or anywhere else to register a company in Hong Kong without setting foot in the city.

Can Non-Residents Register a Company in Hong Kong?

Yes. Hong Kong allows foreign individuals and companies to register a business with:

• No need for local directors or shareholders

• No requirement for the owner to be physically present

• Remote registration process via service providers

However, you do need a local registered address and a Hong Kong resident company secretary—which can be arranged through licensed agents.

Step-by-Step Guide to Registering a Company in Hong Kong as a Non-Resident

Step 1: Choose Your Business Structure

For most non-residents, the Private Limited Company (Ltd) is the preferred structure.

Key features:

• Separate legal entity

• Limited liability for shareholders

• Allows 100% foreign ownership

• Only one director and one shareholder required

• Corporate tax rate: 8.25% on first HKD 2 million profit; 16.5% thereafter

Other types (e.g., sole proprietorship, partnership) are available but less practical for foreigners.

Step 2: Pick a Company Name

• Your company name must be unique and not too similar to existing companies.

• You can choose an English name, Chinese name, or both.

• Avoid restricted words (e.g., "bank", "insurance", etc.) unless properly licensed.

• Use the Companies Registry’s online name search tool to check availability.

Once confirmed, your company name is reserved upon successful registration.

Step 3: Appoint Directors, Shareholders & Company Secretary

Requirements:

• At least one director (individual, can be non-resident)

• At least one shareholder (individual or company, can also be non-resident)

• A local company secretary who is either:

  • A Hong Kong resident, or

  • A licensed corporate services provider

Note: A sole director cannot act as company secretary.

You’ll also need to provide:

• Passport copy and proof of address for each director and shareholder

• Corporate documents (if a company is the shareholder)

Step 4: Get a Registered Office Address in Hong Kong

You must have a physical registered office in Hong Kong (P.O. boxes are not allowed).

This is where official government correspondence will be sent. Most non-residents use an address provided by their service agent.

Step 5: Submit Incorporation Documents

To register the company, you need to submit:

• Form NNC1 (for companies with shareholders) or NNC1G (if no share capital)

• Articles of Association

• Copies of passports and address proof for directors and shareholders

• Company name approval

• Company secretary and registered office details

Submission is done online via the e-Registry portal or by a company formation agent.

Step 6: Receive Certificate of Incorporation

Once approved, you will receive:

• Certificate of Incorporation (from Companies Registry)

• Business Registration Certificate (from the Inland Revenue Department)

Timeframe: 1–3 business days, if documents are in order.

Your Hong Kong company is now officially registered and legally recognized.

Step 7: Open a Corporate Bank Account

Opening a bank account in Hong Kong is one of the most challenging steps for non-residents.

Options include:

1. Traditional Hong Kong Banks (e.g., HSBC, DBS, Bank of China)

• Require in-person verification

• Stricter due diligence

• May take several weeks

2. Virtual Banks / Fintech Solutions

• Examples: Airwallex, Wise Business, Statrys, Currenxie

• Faster approval and remote onboarding

• Useful for startups and digital businesses

Tip: Prepare a solid business plan, proof of address, and incorporation documents to improve approval chances.

Step 8: Stay Compliant with Ongoing Requirements

After you register a company in Hong Kong, you must fulfill certain annual obligations:

1. Annual Return Filing

• Must be submitted every year to the Companies Registry

• Contains updated company structure and contact details

2. Annual Business Registration Renewal

• Required by the Inland Revenue Department

• Typically renewed yearly

3. Audit and Tax Filing

• All Hong Kong companies must prepare audited financial statements

• File a profits tax return annually (even if the company is dormant)

4. Economic Substance & Reporting

• If you’re doing international business, you may need to comply with economic substance rules under global tax standards

Working with a company secretary or accounting firm ensures you stay compliant and avoid penalties.

Costs to Register a Company in Hong Kong as a Non-Resident

Here’s an approximate breakdown of the costs:

Total Setup Cost: Typically ranges from $1,200 to $2,500, depending on the provider and services selected.

Pros of Hong Kong Company Formation for Non-Residents

• No local ownership or presence required

• Low and simple tax regime

• No capital gains tax

• Business-friendly legal system

• No foreign exchange controls

• Strategic access to Asian markets

• Fast and paperless registration process

Common Use Cases for Non-Residents

• E-commerce and dropshipping businesses

• Consulting and digital services targeting global clients

• International trading companies

• Holding companies for investments or IP

• Crypto-related businesses (compliant with Hong Kong regulations)

Final Thoughts

Company registration in Hong Kong is one of the most accessible and attractive options for non-residents looking to start or expand a global business. With a flexible corporate structure, modern infrastructure, and low taxation, Hong Kong continues to rank as a top jurisdiction for cross-border entrepreneurs.

However, success depends on understanding your compliance obligations, choosing the right banking solution, and partnering with a reliable service provider for formation and ongoing support.

Whether you're an online entrepreneur, international trader, or startup founder, registering a company in Hong Kong gives you the legal and financial tools to operate globally—with the convenience of remote setup and management.