How do I incorporate a limited company in Hong Kong, step by step?

Steps

1. Decide the structure: shareholders, at least one director who is an individual, and a company secretary (a HK-resident individual or a company with a Hong Kong office).
2. Choose a name and search it for free on the Registry's e-Services Portal.
3. Prepare the articles of association: use the Registry's sample articles or your own.
4. Complete Form NNC1: it includes the company name, registered office, share capital, first shareholders, directors and secretary. You also give significant controller details (the individuals who ultimately own or control the company).
5. Submit with IRBR1: the Notice to Business Registration Office is filed together with the Registry fee and the business registration fee and levy.
6. Receive the certificates: a Certificate of Incorporation and a Business Registration Certificate. Online filing is normally done within about one hour; government charges are HK$3,895 with a one-year business registration certificate (as at 2026).

After incorporation

• Set up the statutory registers and the significant controllers register.
• Hold a first board meeting; allot shares if needed.
• Open a bank account.
• Notify the IRD of business particulars within one month of starting business.
• Put the annual return deadline in your calendar.

The e-Services Portal replaced the older e-Registry in December 2023. A company that wants to file online later must have an authorised officer registered as an e-Services user.