Can a foreigner or non-resident be a director of a Hong Kong company?

Company law

• A non-Hong Kong resident can be appointed as a director of a local limited company.
• The company still needs at least one director who is a natural person and a company secretary who meets the Hong Kong residence or office rule.
• No local shareholder is required.

Practical points

• Directors must consent to act, and their details are filed with the Registry.
• Directors remain subject to Hong Kong duties and liabilities wherever they live.
• Banks may ask more questions about non-resident directors; see the article on why opening a Hong Kong company bank account is difficult.

Immigration Holding a directorship or shares does not give a visa. A non-resident who wants to live and work in Hong Kong needs permission under one of the Immigration Department's schemes, for example Investment as Entrepreneurs under the General Employment Policy, or a talent scheme (schemes as at 2026). Visiting visa-free to attend meetings is different from working.

Tax Tax residence depends on where the company is managed and controlled.