Are you thinking of starting a business or setting up an offshore company in Hong Kong? Incorporating a company will be the first step. However, navigating all the administrative and legal requirements can be a lengthy and complex process for first-timers. According to a survey of 120 entrepreneurs who started a company in Hong Kong, the average cost to incorporate a company in Hong Kong is around HKD 9,053.
Today, many companies are offering company incorporation services to help entrepreneurs start a company in Hong Kong. These experienced service providers can guide you through the entire process – and the best part? It can be done 100% online without being present in Hong Kong.
However, with so many options, it can be tough to decide which service provider is the best for you. To help save you time and resources, we have compiled the 5 best company incorporation services in Hong Kong, highlighting who they’re best for, their key services, and fees.
Let's take a look.
| Best For | Fees |
 | One package that covers everything you need to register a company in Hong Kong. This includes a fast-track company incorporation in 5 days and a business account application at Statrys. | HKD 8,600 Government fees included |
 | A wide range of corporate and administrative services on a single platform, along with advice and assessment on company maintenance costs and future sale planning. | Quote-based pricing |
 | Flexible and customisable incorporation services with strong accounting support. | Starting from HKD 5,350 (Excludes government fees) |
 | Tailored incorporation services for international businesses, including add-ons like visa, HR, and payroll assistance. | Quote-based pricing |
 | Comprehensive services with local expertise across multiple countries from a global service provider. | USD 899 - USD 1,599 (about HKD 7,020 - HKD 12,487) Doesn't specify whether government fees are included |
Note: All information provided is dated 16 July 2024 and may have been updated since. Please check each service provider's website for the latest information.
1
Statrys
Statrys is best for entrepreneurs seeking an all-in-one, fast-track solution. Statrys is your go-to if you’re looking for a comprehensive package that covers everything from company incorporation to business account applications.
Statrys is a payment service and company incorporation service provider in Hong Kong. The company offers all-inclusive remote Hong Kong company incorporation services, eliminating the need to visit the country. This is ideal for businesses operating onshore or offshore.
After successfully incorporating the company, Statrys can assist in applying for multi-currency business accounts and payment cards for your business in Hong Kong.
With a focus on small and medium enterprises, Statrys has worked with over 3,500 clients and incorporated over 500 companies.
How to get in touch
Website: https://statrys.com
Contact Details: support@statrys.com, +852 2319 4622, +852 6452 3564 (WhatsApp)
Address: 18/F, 23 Thomson Road, Wan Chai, Hong Kong
Office Hours: 10 am - 7 pm (Hong Kong Time), Monday – Friday
Statrys Key Services
Statrys' all-inclusive package includes:
Incorporation Services |
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A Registered Address |
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Company Secretary Services |
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Additional Services |
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Statrys also provides support in finding the best accounting firm to handle your accounting and bookkeeping needs in Hong Kong. Simply share your accounting requirements, and Statrys will obtain quotes from various Hong Kong accounting firms for you to select from.
Statrys Pricing
Statrys pricing is simple and transparent. The only one price at Statrys is HKD 8,600.
The all-inclusive package includes everything you need to establish a company in Hong Kong, such as incorporation services, company secretary services, and a registered address. You can also open a business account with Statrys (subject to approval).
This package is suitable for both onshore and offshore entrepreneurs.
Statrys Pros
- An all-inclusive package, ensuring you get everything within one package.
- Partnered with DBS Bank
Statrys Cons
- Fixed pricing may not suit all budgets
- No in-house accounting service, only a consultant on finding suitable firms
2
BoardRoom
BoardRoom is best for established businesses and enterprises looking for a service provider with a broad spectrum of services on the same platform. Their quote-based pricing and tailored approach suit businesses looking for a streamlined consultant and bespoke solutions.
With over 50 years of experience serving over 7,300 clients globally, BoardRoom is a leading provider of corporate advisory services in the Asia-Pacific region. They offer comprehensive solutions for accounting, payroll, and corporate secretarial needs.
In Hong Kong, BoardRoom Corporate Services (HK) Limited is recognised for its extensive range of services, supporting both local and international clients with secretarial, accounting, payroll, and consulting services.
How to get in touch
Website: https://www.boardroomlimited.com/hk
Contact Details: info.hk@boardroomlimited.com, +852 2598 5234
Address: 31/F, 148 Electric Road North Point, Hong Kong
Office Hours: N/A
BoardRoom Key Services
BoardRoom’s incorporation services include:
Pre-Incorporation Services
- Guidance on selecting the most suitable company structure, considering advantageous tax, legal, and share arrangements.
- Assessment of annual maintenance requirements, administrative efforts, and related costs.
- Helps you plan ahead in case you intend to sell the company after a certain period of time.
- Support for businesses, whether they are new entities or branches of existing companies.
Incorporation Services
- Selecting a name that meets HKCR registration criteria.
- Registering an office facility in Hong Kong.
- Establishing a correspondence address.
- Designating directors and shareholders.
- Appointing a company secretary and essential personnel.
- Handle a significant controller register
- Appointing a Designated Representative.
- Meeting transparency requirements regarding beneficial owner details, company structure, directors, shareholders, location, and capital.
Post Incorporation Services
- Handling annual returns with the HKCR
- Submission of profits tax returns and employer’s returns to the IRD
- Ensuring punctual payment of annual business registration fees
- Organising annual general meetings
- Updating company changes with the HKCR
BoardRoom Fees
Because BoardRoom's services begin with consulting, pricing is provided on a quote basis. Please contact BoardRoom directly for further details.
BoardRoom Pros and Cons
BoardRoom Pros
- Consultant services that cover planning and assessment
- Being a major provider offering additional services such as accounting, payroll, tax services, and employee options plans allows you to consolidate your needs under one umbrella.
BoardRoom Cons
- Fees are quote-based, resulting in longer wait times to ascertain costs.
- Their service details are somewhat less comprehensive, not specifying included documents or access points.
- No information on post-incorporation account setup
3
FastLane
Fastlane is best for small to medium-sized enterprises (SMEs) seeking a flexible incorporation service provider with accounting expertise. Their affiliation with Xero makes them advantageous for businesses prioritising strong financial management and seamless integration with cloud-based accounting solutions.
Founded in 2013, FastLane offers professional accounting and corporate services. It is highly regarded for its accounting services, registered with the Hong Kong Institute of Certified Public Accountants (HKICPA), and recognised as a Platinum Partner of Xero. FastLane has supported over 1,000 companies.
Apart from accounting services, the company offers local company registration services for both local and foreign business owners, as well as tailored services for Hong Kong businesses aiming for seamless international expansion.
How to get in touch
Website: https://fastlane-global.com/hk
Contact Details: enquiry@fastlane-global.com, +852 3956 3112, +852 3956 3112 (WhatsApp)
Address: Room 1405, 14/F, 135 Bonham Strand Trade Centre, 135 Bonham Strand, Sheung Wan, Hong Kong
Office Hours: N/A
FastLane Key Services
FastLane services can be customised from the following options:
Standard Incorporation Services
- Company name verification
- Document preparation
- Articles of Association
- Certificate of Incorporation
- First written resolution
- Share certificate
- Digital statutory register records
- Register of directors and secretaries
- Register of members
- Register of significant controllers
- Assistance in scheduling bank account opening meetings
- Supply of one set of CPA-certified company documents for bank account opening
Optional Services:
- Company secretary services for 1 year
- A registered office address for 1 year
- Value-added services include accounting, auditing, HR administration, payroll, work visas, work permits, and recruitment.
FastLane Fees
FastLane offers custom packages starting from HKD 5,350. Please note that the government incorporation fee of HKD 3,920 is not included in their service fees.
For more details, please contact FastLane to get a quote.
FastLane Pros and Cons
FastLane Pros
- Customisable plans
- Optional administration and accounting services to consolidate all your needs in one place
FastLane Cons
- The starting prices appear to be relatively high since they exclude registered addresses, secretary services, and government fees.
4
Acclime Hong Kong
Accline is best for international businesses looking for tailored professional incorporation services that cater to their expansion. Acclime is also ideal for those needing assistance with visas, HR, and payroll. Their solutions and focus on international clients make them a top choice for companies planning to establish a presence in Hong Kong while leveraging a network across the Asia-Pacific region.
Acclime Hong Kong is part of the Acclime Group, operating in 14 markets across the Asia Pacific and serving over 14,500 clients. They specialise in professional services including company formation, accounting, tax, HR, and advisory services.
In Hong Kong and beyond, the company focuses on delivering high-quality outsourcing and consulting solutions to international clients. Their services in Hong Kong include tailored incorporation services for private limited companies, representative offices, and foreign branch offices.
How to get in touch
Website: https://hongkong.acclime.com
Contact Details: infohongkong@acclime.com, +852 2151 2260
Address: Unit B, 17/F, United Centre, 95 Queensway, Admiralty, Hong Kong
Office Hours: 9 am – 6 pm, Monday – Friday
Acclime Hong Kong Key Services
Acclime offers a range of customisable services, including:
Essential company registration services
- Register your business structure with the Companies Registry.
- Act as a resident director for companies
- Company secretary service, including filing, maintaining statutory books, and providing secretarial advice.
- A registered office address in Hong Kong upon incorporation
- A mailing address with mail forwarding services.
One-off and ongoing additional compliance services
- Business permits and licenses
- Securing and renewing visas, such as work visas, dependant or investment visas.
- Accounting services
- Tax services
- HR outsourcing
- Comprehensive payroll outsourcing services tailored for Hong Kong
Acclime Hong Kong Fees
Acclime's services are offered on a quote basis. For more information, please consult Acclime directly.
Acclime Hong Kong Pros and Cons
Acclime Pros
- Excellent add-value services, especially their visa assistance
- Services available as either one-time or ongoing support, catering to diverse needs and budgets
- Tailored services for representative offices and foreign branch offices are available
Acclime Cons
- Quote-based fees make cost comparisons challenging and lead to longer decision times.
- No information is available on setting up accounts post-incorporation
- Lack of detailed information on included documents
5
BBCIncorp
BBCIncorp is a service provider dedicated to helping businesses simplify company administration tasks.
Their services encompass company formation, banking support, and accounting in 20 countries worldwide. They serve entrepreneurs, SMEs, and professional intermediaries, distinguishing themselves with local expertise, tailored solutions, and cost-effective pricing through the use of technology and outsourced labour.
Website: https://bbcincorp.com/hk/
Contact Details: service@bbcincorp.com, +852 8192 8666
Address: Room 9, 4F, Beverley Commercial Centre, 87-105 Chatham Road South, Tsim Sha Tsui, Kowloon, Hong Kong
Office Hours: 9 am - 5.30 pm, Monday – Friday
BBCIncorp Key Services
- Preparing and submitting documentation
- Digital corporate records
- Covering all government fees for one year
- Compliance with all necessary legal requirements, including:
- One year of company secretary services
- One year of a registered address
- Significant controller register with a Designated Representative
- One set of documents certified by CPA
- Mail scanning
Options to include:
- Bank application and consultant
- Preparation of certified corporate documents
BBCIncorp Fees
Plan | What's Included | Fees |
Basic |
| USD 899 (about HKD 7,020) |
Essential | Everything in the Basic plan, plus
| USD 999 (about HKD 7,801) |
Premium | Everything in the Basic plan, plus
| USD 1,599 (about HKD 12,487) |
BBCIncorp Pros and Cons
BBCIncorp Pros
- The basic plan is relatively inclusive for company formation alone
- Local expertise in 20 countries
BBCIncorp Cons
- An upgraded plan is required for an applicable bank account
- No explicit information on whether the government fees are included
BBC Incorp is Best For:
Businesses looking for a global service provider with a local touch. With fees between USD 899 and USD 1,599, BBC Incorp is particularly suited for businesses that operate internationally or have plans for global expansion. They offer tailored solutions and local expertise across 20 countries, making them a strong contender for businesses with international aspirations or operations.
Why Set Up a Company in Hong Kong?
Whether you want to set up a company or have an offshore company in Hong Kong, the benefits that businesses will get are as follows:
- A strategic location providing easy access to Mainland China and Asian markets.
- Its status as a global financial hub, acting as a business gateway to China and beyond. Hong Kong is also the worldwide centre of renminbi trade settlement.
- Ease of doing business, with recognition as the world's third easiest country to do business by the World Bank in 2020.
- Hong Kong's favourable tax systems and rates, with a profit tax rate ranging from 8.25% to 16.5% and exemptions for foreign-sourced income. Complete ownership is granted to foreigners, and there are no sales, import, capital gain, or dividend taxes. The absence of withholding tax on distributions and payments adds to its financial allure.
🔍Tip: Here is the full list of pros and cons of relocating your business to Hong Kong.
Why Use a Hong Kong Company Incorporation Services?
You might be wondering why you should pay for the service instead of doing it yourself.
Put simply, completing all the required paperwork and staying on top of local regulations by yourself can be time-consuming and error-prone.
Here are the things a Hong Kong company incorporation service can do to help you.
- Time Efficiency - Dealing with documentation and local regulations can take a lot of time, especially if you're unfamiliar with the process. Professional services make things easier by speeding up paperwork.
- Reduce Error - Without experience, registering a company on your own may increase the chances of making mistakes that could cause delays or legal issues. Incorporation services have experienced professionals who understand local regulations and can ensure compliance.
- Cost Savings - While there is a cost to hiring incorporation services, it can save you money in the long run compared to the potential costs of mistakes and delays if you did it yourself. Professional services help you navigate regulations efficiently, lowering the risk of fines and legal problems that could cost more.
- Faster Business Launch - By entrusting professionals with paperwork and compliance matters, you can launch your business sooner than if you were to go at it alone. This efficient approach also frees up your time to focus on developing other aspects of your business.
Essential Requirements for Company Incorporation in Hong Kong
With so many services offered, you may wonder what are non-negotiable and what are nice-to-have extras. Let's clarify the essentials here.
Must-Have Requirements for Incorporation
- Registered address: A physical Hong Kong address is mandatory for all companies.
- Company Secretary: A local resident must serve as the company secretary as per legal requirements.
- Directors and shareholders: At least one director and shareholder is required. They can be of any nationality and do not need to be residents of Hong Kong.
- Company name: A unique company name that complies with Hong Kong regulations. Choosing the right company name is crucial to avoid rejection by the Companies Registry. Incorporation services can help by checking name availability, providing suggestions, and ensuring compliance with Hong Kong's naming regulations.
- Articles of Association: A document outlining the company's internal rules and regulations.
Must-Have Requirements for Maintenance and Compliance
- Annual Return Filling (NAR1): Companies must submit an annual return to the Companies Registry detailing shareholders, directors, and share capital information.
- Significant Controllers Register: Companies must maintain a register of individuals with significant control over the company, as mandated by the Companies Ordinance.
Important Incorporation Documents
After a successful incorporation, you will receive the following documents that you must keep as evidence of your company's formation:
- Certificate of Incorporation: Confirms the legal existence of the company.
- Business Registration Certificate: A document issued by the Business Registration Office required to legally operate a business in Hong Kong.
Tip: Check out our Hong Kong company formation guide for comprehensive details on requirements and processes.
What Is the Cost of Company Registration in Hong Kong?
Statrys surveyed 120 Hong Kong companies and found that forming a company in Hong Kong costs an average of HKD 9,053.
The cost of company registration in Hong Kong on your own will consist of
- Government fees range from HKD 3,745 to HKD 3,920.
- CPA certification fees range from HKD 200 to HKD 500 or more per passport. The exact cost of CPA certification can vary based on negotiations, considering factors such as company structure and the number of shareholders.
- Registered address fees vary depending on the location and provider.
- Company secretary services also vary, usually based on the company's structure, number of shareholders, provider, and other factors.
If you use a company incorporation service provider, the price typically ranges between HKD 6,000 and HKD 12,000. The final price will depend on the add-ons and level of service.
Tip: Check out our detailed report on Hong Kong company formation costs based on data from business owners in Hong Kong.
What to Consider When Choosing a Company Incorporation Service?
Each of these providers caters to different aspects of company incorporation, offering solutions that range from fast-track, all-inclusive packages to specialised services like ongoing corporate support and international expertise.
Depending on your specific business needs, budget, and operational scope, these recommendations can guide you in choosing the most suitable service provider for incorporating your business in Hong Kong.
There are several factors that you should consider before choosing an incorporation service provider. Here are some of the most important ones.
Reputation
You can assess the reputation of an incorporation service by browsing online reviews, testimonials, and ratings provided by previous clients. Notably, platforms like Google Reviews and Trustpilot are reliable sources for firsthand experiences.
Pay attention to any complaints and observe how a company addresses and resolves those issues.
Additionally, check if they have established partnerships with reputable organisations and ensure that their business is appropriately licensed.
Overall, a wealth of reviews and a recent track record of excellent service are positive indicators.
Transparency on Fees and Included Services
Clear communication of fees and offerings is also key. A transparent service provider should list what's included and excluded in different packages, along with a breakdown of the costs and fees for each package. This allows for clear comparisons.
Here's what to look for:
- Government fees: Ensure the service provider clearly states whether government fees are included in their package. Government fees typically cover the Certificate of Incorporation and Business Registration.
- Registered address and company incorporation fees: It is very common for company incorporation services to either include or exclude these in their packages. Some providers offer them separately.
- Pricing for multiple shareholders: Most providers increase charges if the number of shareholders exceeds a certain number. Some may charge a flat fee, while others use tiered pricing.
You should also be able to access information about the incorporation process, the documents required, and the estimated turnaround time.
Customer Support Availability
Every business is unique, and so are its obstacles.
While self-help resources are useful, unforeseen questions and requests, whether legal or administrative, are bound to come up. Make sure your potential match has customer service available via your preferred channel, such as phone, email, or chat, to provide guidance when needed. Understanding their average response times can also give you a sense of their helpfulness.
You should also be able to receive assistance and guidance before, during, and after the process. In other words, having access to ongoing customer services to help you ensure your company is properly registered and maintained is ideal.
When choosing a company incorporation service, focus on reputation through client reviews and verified licensing and accreditation, transparent pricing, and reliable customer support. Bonus points if they have a user-friendly platform.
Q&A
How can businesses assess the reputation and reliability of incorporation service providers?
My advice is to review ratings on platforms like Trustpilot and Google Reviews. Seek recommendations from your professional network, as word of mouth is a valuable resource. Explore online forums for additional insights, and check the service providers' social media pages for customer interactions and responses.
What are the usual situations where hidden fees can occur?
What should businesses expect from incorporation service providers in terms of customer support?
Final Thought
Concluding our exploration, we've covered the five best company incorporation services in Hong Kong, including Statrys for its singular comprehensive package, BoardRoom for its extensive range of corporate advisory services, FastLane for its customisable plans and accounting expertise, Acclime Hong Kong for tailored professional services, and BBCIncorp for its global expertise.
By considering the reputation, transparency, and customer support availability of the incorporation service, you can find the best service provider for your business needs.
FAQs
Can I incorporate a Hong Kong company by myself?
Yes, you can incorporate a Hong Kong company by yourself. However, the process can be lengthy and complicated. Using an incorporation service can save time and money and help you start your business faster.
How much does it cost to incorporate a company in Hong Kong?
How long does it take to incorporate a company in Hong Kong?
What are the best Hong Kong company incorporation services?
