Want to Start a Company in Hong Kong? Meet These Director Requirements to Get Your Journey Off the Ground!

Thinking of setting up a company in Hong Kong? Understand these director requirements to start your journey without worries!

In recent years, with the rapid development of the Guangdong-Hong Kong-Macao Greater Bay Area and the increasingly consolidated status of Hong Kong as an international financial center, more and more enterprises and individuals have chosen to set up companies in Hong Kong to explore international markets or expand their business territories. However, successfully registering a company in Hong Kong is no easy task, especially for those who are new to Hong Kong's business environment. They need to fully understand the relevant regulations and requirements. Among them, the qualification and responsibility of directors are crucial links in corporate operations.

Basic Requirements for Directors of Hong Kong Companies

According to Section 622 of the Companies Ordinance, any person can serve as a director of a Hong Kong company, but they must meet the following basic conditions

1. At least eighteen years old This is the basic age limit set by Hong Kong law for all directors, ensuring their ability to make independent decisions.

2. No bankruptcy record If an applicant has ever filed for bankruptcy, they cannot become a company director unless they have received a court order lifting the bankruptcy.

3. Good reputation The Hong Kong Companies Registry will conduct background checks on each director to ensure their past behavior complies with commercial integrity principles.

It is worth noting that while the Companies Ordinance does not mandate that directors must be Hong Kong residents, usually at least one director needs to reside in Hong Kong and hold a valid Hong Kong ID card or entry permit. This requirement aims to ensure the company's actual operational capability within Hong Kong.

Changes Brought by Recent Policy Adjustments

Recently, Hong Kong has further strengthened its supervision over offshore companies and shell companies. For example, in the amendment to the Companies Ordinance released in early 2025, it clearly requires all companies to disclose information about their controlling persons and regularly update shareholder and director lists. This measure aims to prevent illegal activities such as money laundering and terrorist financing, while enhancing market transparency.

At the same time, to attract more foreign investment, the Hong Kong Special Administrative Region has introduced several preferential policies, such as simplifying tax declaration processes and reducing rates for certain industries. This is undoubtedly good news for businesses looking to operate in Hong Kong. However, it also means that companies need to be more cautious when selecting directors to ensure compliance with the latest standards.

How to Select Suitable Director Candidates?

In practice, many startup entrepreneurs may face the dilemma of who should be the director. In this regard, it is recommended to consider the following aspects comprehensively

Professional Skill Matching Based on the core business field of the company, give priority to professionals with relevant industry experience to serve as directors. For example, if the company mainly engages in financial services, it can invite individuals with a financial background to join the board.

Management Experience and Networking Resources Excellent directors not only possess solid professional knowledge but also have rich enterprise management experience and extensive social networks to bring more development opportunities for the company.

Moral Quality and Sense of Responsibility As one of the helmsmen of the company, a director's actions directly affect the company's reputation and development direction. When screening candidates, their professional ethics and personal character should be given special attention.

Common Misunderstandings and Response Strategies

During the preparation phase, many entrepreneurs tend to fall into some misconceptions, such as thinking that finding a nominal director can easily get through. In fact, this approach not only violates the law but may also leave hidden risks for the company. The correct approach is to take the selection of every director seriously, treating them as important partners in driving the company's development.

Additionally, some business owners worry about lacking sufficient legal knowledge and dare not take the position of director themselves. In reality, this can be solved by hiring a professional legal advisory team. They can not only assist with registration procedures but also provide legal support during subsequent operations, helping companies avoid potential risks.

Conclusion

In short, to smoothly embark on the entrepreneurial journey in Hong Kong, one must thoroughly understand and strictly abide by local laws and regulations. Especially regarding the qualifications and responsibilities of directors, one must have a clear understanding and plan ahead. Only then can the long-term development goals of the company truly be achieved. It is hoped that this article can help those who are considering setting up a company in Hong Kong. Wishing everyone success on this land full of opportunities in Hong Kong!