Want to Know HK Company Registration Costs? Key Points You Must Understand!

Want to Know the Cost Details of a Ready-Made Hong Kong Company? Here Are the Key Points You Must Understand!

As global economic integration accelerates, more and more entrepreneurs and investors are turning their attention to Hong Kong-a jurisdiction known for its high degree of internationalization and favorable business environment. As a major financial hub in Asia, Hong Kong has become one of the most popular places to register a company worldwide, thanks to its low tax rates, free-market economy, and well-established legal system.

In the current context of global economic recovery, an increasing number of small and medium-sized enterprises SMEs and startups are considering registering ready-made Hong Kong companies as a fast track to entering the international market. So, how much does it actually cost to set up a ready-made Hong Kong company? What fees should you definitely be aware of? This article will provide a detailed breakdown of the associated costs and combine recent market trends to help you make an informed decision.

1. What is a Ready-Made Hong Kong Company?

A ready-made company, also known as a shell company or instant company, is a legally incorporated entity that has already been registered by an agency but has not yet commenced any business activities. These companies typically come with complete statutory documents, including the Certificate of Incorporation, Business Registration Certificate, Articles of Association, and share certificates. After purchase, only the shareholder and director information needs to be updated before the company can begin operations.

For businesses aiming to start operations quickly, ready-made companies offer a clear time advantage over newly incorporated ones. Normally, setting up a new Hong Kong company takes 5-7 working days, whereas acquiring a ready-made company can be completed within 1-2 working days-greatly improving efficiency.

2. Main Cost Components of a Ready-Made Hong Kong Company

The total cost of purchasing or setting up a ready-made Hong Kong company includes the following key components

1. Purchase Price of the Company

The price varies depending on the type of company, whether it has a bank account, and whether it has previously filed tax returns. Generally, a standard ready-made company with no prior business activity ranges from HKD 2,000 to HKD 5,000. If the company comes with a bank account or previous tax filings, the price may rise to HKD 8,000 or more.

According to pricing data released by multiple registration agencies in 2025, the typical market range is between HKD 3,000 and HKD 4,000-ideal for first-time registrants.

2. Government Fees

Even though the company is already registered, certain government fees apply during the transfer process

Company Registry Fee Approximately HKD 280 for updating shareholder and director details.

Business Registration Renewal Fee HKD 250 per year for the 2025 fiscal year.

Stamp Duty If shares are transferred, stamp duty is usually 0.1% of the transfer value.

3. Agent Service Fee

Most businesses use a corporate service provider to handle the purchase and transfer procedures. Fees vary by provider and scope of service, generally ranging from HKD 1,000 to HKD 3,000. Some providers offer full-service packages, including company transfer, bank account opening assistance, and business registration updates, which may result in higher overall charges.

4. Bank Account Opening Fee

If the purchased company does not have a bank account, a separate application is required. In recent years, Hong Kong banks have tightened their due diligence processes, especially for non-resident applicants. The average fee for opening a corporate account ranges from HKD 1,000 to HKD 3,000, with some banks also charging monthly maintenance fees.

5. Annual Audit and Secretary Fees

Under Hong Kong’s Companies Ordinance, all registered companies must undergo annual audits and submit annual returns. These fees typically include

Audit and Filing Fees Around HKD 2,000-4,000 annually.

Corporate Secretary and Registered Office Services Approximately HKD 1,000-2,000 per year.

3. Important Considerations When Choosing a Ready-Made Company

Although ready-made companies offer speed and convenience, several important points should be considered before making a purchase

1. Verify the Company's History

Before finalizing the purchase, ensure through the Companies Registry or your agent that the company has no outstanding debts, unresolved tax issues, or legal disputes. Such issues could hinder future banking or operational activities.

2. Be Mindful of Bank Account Challenges

With stricter financial regulations, banks have become more cautious when approving new accounts. It is advisable to choose a ready-made company that already has a bank account or work with an experienced agent who can guide you through the process.

3. Clarify Services and Costs

Different agents offer varying levels of service-from basic company transfers to comprehensive packages including bank setup and annual compliance. Always clarify the exact services included and avoid unexpected additional charges by carefully reviewing the contract terms.

4. Recent Market Trends and Developments

According to data from the Companies Registry in the first half of 2025, the number of newly registered companies increased by approximately 8% year-on-year, with over 30% opting for ready-made companies. This trend reflects the growing importance of ready-made companies in helping businesses expand internationally.

Moreover, with China’s ongoing Going Global strategy, more mainland investors are using Hong Kong as a gateway to overseas markets. The convenience of ready-made companies makes them a preferred choice for many SMEs.

In 2025, the Hong Kong Special Administrative Region further streamlined company formation and management procedures-for example, by introducing electronic filing systems and extending annual return deadlines-thereby boosting the popularity of ready-made companies.

Conclusion

Registering a ready-made Hong Kong company offers a fast and efficient way for businesses to enter the global market. However, it is crucial to fully understand the various cost components involved to avoid unnecessary expenses caused by incomplete information. Given the current regulatory and market environment, ready-made companies remain a highly effective and viable option for many businesses.