How HK Company Registration Works for Mainland Residents A Complete Guide

How Mainland Chinese Residents Can Successfully Register a Company in Hong Kong A Comprehensive Guide

In recent years, with the deepening of economic ties between mainland China and Hong Kong, more and more mainland residents have chosen to set up companies in Hong Kong. This is not only due to Hong Kong’s mature business environment and legal system as an international financial center, but also because of its low tax rates, free port policy, and the ease of expanding into overseas markets.

According to data released by the Companies Registry of Hong Kong in 2025, despite certain global economic pressures, the number of company registrations from mainland China has continued to grow steadily, reflecting sustained investor confidence in the Hong Kong market.

For mainland residents, registering a company in Hong Kong is not complicated, but it does require understanding relevant policies, procedures, and key considerations to ensure a smooth process. This article provides a detailed step-by-step guide to help you establish your company in Hong Kong with confidence.

1. Clarify Your Purpose and Business Direction

Before starting the registration process, it's essential to define your business goals and scope of operations. Do you plan to operate locally in Hong Kong, or will it serve as a platform for international trade or investment? Different purposes will affect choices regarding company structure, bank account opening, and tax reporting.

Also consider practical matters such as whether you need a physical office address or local employees, as these factors influence the choice of company type and ongoing management costs.

2. Understand Eligibility and Basic Requirements

According to the Hong Kong Companies Ordinance, any natural person or entity aged 18 or above, regardless of nationality, can register a limited liability company in Hong Kong. Mainland residents are fully eligible to establish a company here.

While no local residency proof is required at the time of registration, documents verifying identity and business purpose may be needed later for bank account opening or tax filings.

3. Choose the Right Company Structure

Most mainland investors opt to register a Private Limited Company Limited by Shares, which is the most common corporate form in Hong Kong. Its advantages include

Limited liability protection for shareholders

Easier access to financing and investment

Relatively simple tax compliance

Ability to open offshore bank accounts for cross-border transactions

Alternatively, setting up a non-local company branch may be suitable for those who already have an established business on the mainland.

4. Prepare Required Documents and Information

To register a company in Hong Kong, the following documents and information are typically required

1. Company Name Check availability via the Companies Registry website.

2. Shareholder and Director Details Including copies of ID cards, passports, and proof of address.

3. Company Secretary Must be a Hong Kong resident or a licensed corporate secretary service provider.

4. Registered Office Address Must be a physical address in Hong Kong; PO Boxes are not acceptable.

5. Articles of Association Can be custom-drafted or use a standard template.

Many professional agencies offer one-stop services, including providing a registered address and company secretary, greatly simplifying the process.

5. Step-by-Step Registration Process

1. Name Verification Submit Application

Log in to the Companies Registry website to check the availability of your desired company name. Once confirmed, submit Form NNC1 along with supporting documents.

2. Obtain Business Registration Certificate BR

After receiving the Certificate of Incorporation, apply for the Business Registration Certificate from the Inland Revenue Department to legally conduct business activities.

3. Open a Corporate Bank Account

It is advisable to open a bank account in Hong Kong as soon as possible after registration. Many banks now allow remote video verification, though complete documentation is still required.

4. Tax Registration Annual Filings

Hong Kong operates on a territorial taxation principle. If your company earns no profits in Hong Kong, you may apply for tax exemption. Each year, submit the Annual Return AR and renew the Business Registration Certificate.

6. Frequently Asked Questions and Key Considerations

Minimum Share Capital There is no minimum requirement, and capital verification is not necessary.

Tax Benefits The first HKD 2 million of profit is tax-exempt in the first year, followed by a profits tax rate of 16.5%.

Language and Documentation Documents can be submitted in English or Chinese; keeping both versions is recommended for future reference.

Choosing an Agent Select a reputable and licensed agency to avoid delays caused by incomplete paperwork or improper handling.

7. Recent Trends and Developments

As reported in late 2025, with the advancement of the Guangdong-Hong Kong-Macao Greater Bay Area initiative, the Hong Kong Special Administrative Region is increasing support for small and medium enterprises. Measures such as streamlining cross-border registration procedures and upgrading e-government systems have further improved the business environment.

Additionally, amid global supply chain adjustments, many mainland companies are using Hong Kong as a gateway to expand into Southeast Asia and Western markets, driving increased demand for company registration in Hong Kong. This indicates that choosing Hong Kong is not just about geographic advantage-it’s also a strategic business decision.

Conclusion

Registering a company in Hong Kong as a mainland resident is a manageable process, provided you plan ahead, prepare all necessary documents, and choose reliable service providers. Whether your goal is business expansion, asset allocation, or tax planning, Hong Kong remains a highly attractive destination for international business.

We hope this guide helps you navigate the process smoothly and supports you in launching your journey toward global entrepreneurship.