Opening a Business Bank Account in Hong Kong [2025]

If you're planning to do business in Hong Kong, opening a business bank account is a must. However, many people don't realise that the process can be slower, stricter, and more selective than expected.

Whether you're based in Hong Kong or operating from overseas, banks and financial institutions now demand more than just your company documents. They want to understand your business model, verify your stakeholders, and ensure you're not a compliance risk. 

And if you're not prepared, that means delays or even rejection.

At Statrys, we’ve seen thousands of businesses face this exact challenge. The good news? You don’t need to go in blind. In this guide, we’ll walk you through exactly:

✅ Who can open a business account in Hong Kong
✅ What documents and steps are required
✅ How long it typically takes (and why)
✅ The best options for local and international businesses in 2025

Want to skip the line? Statrys offers 100% online business accounts with no minimum balance, no initial deposit, and approval in as fast as 3 working days.

Let’s get started.

Both local and foreign businesses can open business accounts in Hong Kong. But eligibility depends on providers, your company type, industry, and where it's registered.

Some traditional banks only accept local companies, while others accept foreign-registered businesses but will likely require a face-to-face interview for due diligence.

In terms of business entities, banks usually accept limited companies and partnerships. Some also accept sole proprietorships. 

Acceptance also depends on the business’s risk and industry. Industries like gambling, adult entertainment, and high-risk financial services are less likely to be accepted.

Yes, non-residents can open a business account in Hong Kong.

However, most local banks require all directors and shareholders to visit in person. Some may let you start the registration online, but identity verification at a branch is still required to finish the application.

If you don’t live in Hong Kong, you have two main options

1. Look for an international bank with branches in your country. Some of these banks may let you manage business banking across countries. For example, HSBC offers international banking services. However, expect higher fees and paperwork for these services.
2. Use a fintech provider. If you mainly need a payment solution, fintech providers can also be a good alternative. They usually operate globally and often have less strict requirements for opening an account. However, fintech companies offer limited services compared to traditional banks. They may not provide business loans, credit cards, debit cards, or interest rates on deposits. 
   
   A good example is Statrys. Statrys offers multi-currency business accounts for companies registered in Hong Kong, Singapore, and the British Virgin Islands. The entire application and verification process is done online, with no physical visit required. 

The documents needed to open a business account in Hong Kong vary depending on the financial service provider. Here are the common documents you’ll need to prepare:

Most banks in Hong Kong provide an application form and a document checklist on their website.

To open a business account in Hong Kong, you’ll need to:

1. Choose the right provider
2. Select your account type
3. Prepare your documents
4. Complete KYC
5. Activate your account

We explain each step below.

Hong Kong offers a variety of business account providers, including:

The next step is to choose the Hong Kong business accounts that best fit your business needs. Below are some options to consider:

• Statrys Multi-currency Business Account: Hold up to 11 currencies, send and receive across 140+ countries with real-time tracking, no initial deposit or minimum balance required. FX fees from as low as 0.1%.
• DBS Bank (Hong Kong) Business Accounts: Multi-currency savings (up to 14 currencies) and RMB accounts for remittance to Mainland China.
• HSBC Business Integrated Accounts: Combine HKD, RMB, and foreign currency current account, time deposit and savings account in one bundle, with payroll services. Options available for startups, daily banking, and advanced needs.
• ZA Bank Business Account: A fully digital business account that supports HKD, CNY, and USD, with small business loans and foreign exchange services. It is available exclusively to Hong Kong tax residents, and all related parties must hold a valid HKID. 

Most banks list the required documents on their website. What you need can depend on your company’s structure.

If you want to open a business account with Statrys, here are the documents you need to provide:

• Copies of the passport(s) of the directors and shareholders
• A copy of your business registration certificate

With all required documents in hand, you're ready to start the application.

Many banks allow you to apply online by entering your information and uploading documents through their website or mobile app. Traditional banks with stricter compliance requirements may ask you to schedule an in-person appointment to hand in your application and supporting materials.

The next step is to go through the KYC (Know Your Customer) process, which verifies the identities of your company’s directors and shareholders. Banks also use this step to learn more about your business model, the products or services you offer, your target market, and anticipated transaction volumes.

For new or international businesses, banks will likely ask for proof of the company's source of funds.

In most cases, this step requires an in-person visit to a local branch. While digital banks may offer online KYC, most of them only onboard residents. Fintech companies tend to be more flexible and often support digital KYC for both residents and non-residents.

After your application is approved, you may have to take additional steps to activate your account. These can include:

• Setting up a mobile banking app or online banking platform.
• Linking your account to funding sources or transferring funds into the account.

The cost of opening a business account in Hong Kong varies widely depending on the provider. Traditional banks charge between HKD 10,000 and 100,000, while virtual banks and non-bank options like neobanks and fintechs typically offer free account openings. 

The following are typical costs associated with business account opening in Hong Kong:

Financial service providers, including traditional banks, often offer incentives such as welcome bonuses, cash rebates, and fee waivers for new account openings and fund transfers completed within a specific period.

Both traditional bank and non-bank options come with other costs, such as transaction fees, exchange rates and fees, ATM withdrawal fees, inactivity fees, and an account closure fee.

Opening a business account in Hong Kong with traditional banks typically takes between 1 to 4 weeks. 

If you use a digital bank and hold an HKID as a resident with a simple company structure, the process could be completed in just a few days. For non-residents or companies with more complex structures, it takes several weeks or even months, depending on the company’s structure and risk profile.

Startups and businesses with limited financial history or unconventional models may face additional scrutiny.

Here’s a breakdown of the estimated processing times based on applicant type and providers.

Yes, you can open a Hong Kong business account online, but it can be challenging with traditional banks. You have a better chance with non-bank alternatives.

Most traditional banks still require you to verify your identity in person, especially if you are a non-resident. Some banks allow local residents to apply online only if they already have an account or other services with them. Opening your very first account entirely online with a traditional bank is not an option.

On the other hand, there are easier alternatives.

• Hong Kong Digital Banks: May allow full online onboarding for local residents
• Fintech companies: These provide a 100% online application process for eligible countries

Not everyone finds it efficient to fly into a jurisdiction, deal with paperwork, and wait for weeks—possibly even months. If you're based outside Hong Kong, the process can feel especially frustrating. I get it.

If you're looking for a reliable and fully online way to manage your business finances in Hong Kong, Statrys is built for you.

Statrys is not a bank, but a licensed payment service provider offering online multi-currency business accounts for companies registered in Hong Kong, Singapore, or the BVI. You’ll have access to 11 major currencies (HKD, RMB, USD, EUR, and more) to send and receive funds across more than 140 countries, with real-time payment tracking. Convert the currencies whenever the rate is favourable, with FX fees starting from 0.1%. 

The onboarding process is entirely online, with no initial deposit and no minimum balance required. Most of our customers are approved within 3 business days on average, unless your company has a more complex structure. 

Our support team is available to assist you via email, phone, WhatsApp, or WeChat.

Open your business account today. No need to step into a branch.