How do I change my Hong Kong company name, and what does it cost?
Pass a special resolution of the members to adopt the new name, then deliver the notice and resolution to the Companies Registry, which charges HK$295. The change takes effect when the Registrar issues a certificate of change of name. Update contracts, bank accounts and letterheads afterwards.
Steps
- Check the new name is available and acceptable (same rules as for a new company).
- Members pass a special resolution (at least 75% of the votes cast at a meeting, or a written resolution that all eligible members agree to) approving the new name.
- Deliver the notice of change of name to the Companies Registry within 15 days after the resolution is passed, with the HK$295 fee.
- The Registrar issues a certificate of incorporation on change of name; the new name applies from the date on it.
The Registry fee HK$295 for a local company. (For a registered non-Hong Kong company the fee is higher at HK$1,425.)
What to update after the change
- Business registration: the Companies Registry passes the new name to the IRD, so you do not file separately.
- Bank accounts, contracts, licences, invoices, website, signage and letterheads.
- Tell the tax authorities and any regulator if relevant.
Note Companies must display their registered name on business documents. Using an unregistered name can cause problems with enforcing contracts and with banks.
Legal basis
- Companies Ordinance (Cap. 622), s.107
- Companies Ordinance (Cap. 622), s.564
Sources
Applies to 2026 · Last reviewed 29 October 2026
General information for business owners, not legal, tax or professional advice. Rules change, so check the sources or ask a licensed professional before you act.
Related questions
- What are the business registration fee and levy in Hong Kong now?For certificates starting from 1 April 2026 to 31 March 2027, a one-year business registration certificate costs HK$2,350 (HK$2,200 fee plus HK$150 levy) and a three-year certificate HK$6,170 (HK$5,720 plus HK$450). A branch certificate costs HK$230 for one year.
- What are the late fees if I file the Hong Kong annual return late?Instead of HK$105, the Companies Registry charges HK$870 if the return is up to three months late, HK$1,740 for three to six months, HK$2,610 for six to nine months and HK$3,480 beyond nine months, counted from the return date. Failing to file can also lead to prosecution.
- How do I transfer shares in a Hong Kong private company, and what stamp duty applies?Transfers use a signed instrument of transfer, usually with a sold note and bought note, stamped at the IRD Stamp Office. Stamp duty on the sale is 0.1% each for buyer and seller of the consideration or value if higher, with a fixed HK$5 duty on the instrument of transfer. The company records the change and reports it in the next annual return.
- What ongoing filings and fees apply to a registered non-Hong Kong company?A registered non-Hong Kong company files an annual return within 42 days of the anniversary of its registration. The fee is HK$180 if on time and rises to HK$4,800 if more than nine months late. Changing its name costs HK$1,425. It also renews its business registration.
- How much does it cost to incorporate a company in Hong Kong (Companies Registry fee plus business registration)?The Companies Registry fee is HK$1,545 online or HK$1,720 on paper. On top of that, business registration costs HK$2,350 for a one-year certificate (HK$2,200 fee plus HK$150 levy) or HK$6,170 for three years, for companies incorporated between 1 April 2026 and 31 March 2027. Professional fees are extra.