How to Register a Business in Hong Kong (2026 Complete Guide)
- a22162
- 4 hours ago
- 10 min read
How to Register a Business in Hong Kong (2026 Complete Guide)
Starting a business in Hong Kong is famously fast, but the regulatory landscape has evolved. As of 2026, the Unique Business Identifier (UBI) system is fully integrated, and government fees have been restructured. Whether you are a local entrepreneur or a foreign investor, this guide covers every step to get your company from an idea to a fully operational entity in as little as 24 hours.
1. Quick Fact Sheet: The 2026 Requirements
Before you begin your application, ensure you meet these four mandatory criteria:
Directors: At least one natural person (any nationality, non-residents welcome).
Shareholders: At least one (can be the same person as the director).
Company Secretary: Mandatory. Must be a Hong Kong resident or a licensed TCSP (Trust or Company Service Provider).
Registered Office: Must be a physical Hong Kong address (P.O. boxes are not allowed).
2. Step-by-Step Incorporation Process
The Hong Kong government now operates a "One-Stop" service, meaning you apply for your Certificate of Incorporation (CI) and Business Registration Certificate (BRC) simultaneously.
Step 1: Company Name Search
Your name must be unique. You can use English (ending in "Limited"), Traditional Chinese (ending in "有限公司"), or both.
Tip: Use the Cyber Search Centre to check availability. Avoid terms like "Global," "Trust," or "Bank" unless you hold specific licenses, as these trigger manual reviews and delays.
Step 2: Prepare Documents
For most private limited companies, you will need:
Form NNC1: The primary incorporation form.
Articles of Association: The company’s internal "rulebook."
Notice to Business Registration Office (IRBR1): Required to trigger your tax registration.
Step 3: Submission & Fees
Applications via the e-Registry are typically processed within 1 hour. Paper submissions at the Queensway Government Offices take 4–5 working days.
The 2025/2026 Fee Schedule:
| Item | Fee (HKD) |
| Incorporation Fee (Electronic) | $1,545 |
| Business Registration (1-Year) | $2,200 |
| Levy (Protection of Wages) | $150 (Waived for some 2025-26 applicants)* |
| Total Estimated Cost | ~$3,895 |
3. The "Post-Paperwork" Reality: Banking & Compliance
The government site stops at registration. To actually run a business, you must navigate these two hurdles:
The Banking Hurdle
In 2026, opening a bank account remains the most difficult step.
Traditional Banks (HSBC, DBS): Require extensive "Business Proof" and often a physical interview. Processing time: 4–8 weeks.
Digital Alternatives (Airwallex, Statrys, Wise): Offer remote opening and multi-currency accounts. Processing time: 48–72 hours.
The Compliance Calendar
Maintaining your company is as important as starting it. Missing these dates leads to heavy fines ($5,000+) and court summons.
Annual Return (NAR1): File within 42 days of your incorporation anniversary.
Tax Return (PTR): Issued annually in April by the Inland Revenue Department.
Significant Controllers Register (SCR): A mandatory internal record of who "really" owns the company.
4. Why Incorporate in Hong Kong in 2026?
Tax Efficiency: Profits tax is tiered—only 8.25% on the first $2M HKD of profit, and 16.5% thereafter.
Ease of Access: No residency required for directors or shareholders.
Gateway to Asia: The UBI system makes it easier for HK companies to verify their status when doing cross-border trade with Mainland China.
Bestar is the "Goldilocks" Choice
In the world of Hong Kong corporate services, you typically find two extremes: high-priced premium offices and low-cost digital filers. Bestar occupies the "Goldilocks" zone—providing the high-level expertise of a global consultancy with the agility and price point of a modern service provider.
Below is a comparison to show why Bestar is the balanced choice for growing businesses in 2026.
Comparison: Finding the "Right Fit" for Your Business
Feature | Global Giant | Premium Offices Filer | Bestar Hong Kong |
Primary Focus | Complex MNC tax/legal advisory. | Luxury office space & prestigious virtual addresses. | Agile compliance & growth support for SMEs. |
Cost Profile | Premium: High hourly rates for specialized consulting. | Premium: Focused on real estate and "Business Class" perks. | Balanced: Fixed-price packages with no hidden "ad-hoc" fees. |
Service Style | Formal, research-driven, and corporate. | Hospitality-focused; high-end reception services. | Partner-led; proactive 2026 UBI & tax advisory. |
Ideal For | Fortune 500s entering China via Hong Kong. | High-profile firms needing a Central/Grade-A presence. | Entrepreneurs & SMEs scaling in Asia. |
Tech Integration | Traditional portal & manual reporting. | Workspace-centric app. | Digital-first document management & filing. |
Why Bestar is the "Goldilocks" Choice
Not Too Big: Unlike global giants, you aren't just a "file number." You get direct access to licensed professionals who understand your specific business context.
Not Too "Real Estate" Focused: Premium Offices Filer is world-class for offices, but secretarial services are often a secondary add-on. At Bestar, compliance is our core competence, not a side-desk service.
Just Right: We provide the prestigious address and TCSP license you need for bank account credibility, without the 5-star price tag of a serviced office provider.
Visualizing the 2026 Registration Journey
To help you choose the right path, here is how the 2026 incorporation flow looks when managed by a licensed partner like Bestar.
Next Step for You
Would you like a detailed price quote for a Bestar "All-in-One" package (Secretary + Address + UBI Compliance), or would you prefer a 15-minute consultation to see if your business qualifies for the 8.25% tax tier?
Document Checklist
When registering a business in Hong Kong, the "government requirements" are uniform for everyone, but the KYC (Know Your Customer) and AML (Anti-Money Laundering) requirements vary significantly by nationality. This is because banks and corporate service providers apply a "Risk-Based Approach" based on international financial standards.
Here is a custom document checklist categorized by the most common investor profiles in 2026.
1. Hong Kong Residents (Local Profile)
Lowest administrative hurdle; fastest processing.
Primary ID: Copy of Hong Kong Identity Card (HKID).
Note: If you are a non-permanent resident, you must also provide your valid passport.
Proof of Address: A utility bill (water, gas, electricity), bank statement, or tax demand note issued within the last 3 months.
Company Role: Can serve as the mandatory Company Secretary and Designated Representative.
2. Mainland Chinese Residents
Requires specific verification of Mainland ID and entry status.
Primary ID: People’s Republic of China Resident Identity Card (Front and Back).
Secondary ID: PRC Passport or Exit-Entry Permit for Travelling to and from Hong Kong and Macau (two-way permit).
Proof of Address: Chinese bank statement or utility bill (with a certified translation if not in English or Chinese).
Additional Step: You must appoint a Hong Kong resident or a licensed TCSP (corporate firm) to act as your Company Secretary.
3. Western & "Approved Country" Citizens (US, UK, EU, AUS, SG)
Standard international KYC; focus on "Source of Wealth" for banking.
Primary ID: Valid National Passport (must be an original high-resolution scan).
Proof of Address: A bank statement, credit card bill, or utility bill in English.
Constraint: Electronic statements are widely accepted in 2026, but P.O. Boxes are strictly prohibited.
Certification Requirement: If you are not physically present in HK to present original documents, your copies must be Certified True Copies by a Notary Public, Lawyer, or CPA in your home country.
Banking Tip: For US Citizens, be prepared to provide FATCA self-certification forms due to US tax reporting requirements.
4. High-Risk or FATF-Monitored Jurisdictions
Enhanced Due Diligence (EDD) required.
If your nationality or residence is in a country under increased monitoring by the FATF (Financial Action Task Force), you will need:
Source of Wealth (SOW): Documentary evidence of how your capital was earned (e.g., salary slips, inheritance documents, or sale of assets).
Detailed Business Plan: A 2–3 page document outlining your expected customers, suppliers, and transaction volumes in Hong Kong.
Apostille/Legalization: Documents may need an Apostille or legalization by the Chinese Embassy in your country.
5. Summary Comparison Table
Document Type | HK Resident | Mainland Chinese | US / UK / EU / SG | High-Risk Countries |
Identity Proof | HKID Card | PRC ID + Passport | National Passport | Passport + Apostille |
Address Proof | Local Utility Bill | Mainland Statement | Home Country Bill | Bill + SOW Evidence |
Translation | Not Required | Required (if only in CN) | Not Required | Certified Translation |
Co. Secretary | Self/Local | Local Required | Local Required | Local Required |
Processing | 1 Hour | 1–2 Days | 1–2 Days | 1–2 Weeks (EDD) |
Important Checklist for 2026: The "Certified Copy" Rule
In 2026, the Hong Kong Companies Registry and banks have tightened rules on "remote" applications. If you are not in Hong Kong, your ID and Address Proof must be certified by one of the following professionals:
Notary Public
Solicitor / Lawyer
CPA (Certified Public Accountant)
Chartered Secretary
Ready to Launch Your Hong Kong Business?
Don't navigate the "Company Secretary" requirement alone. Our licensed team can provide the mandatory registered address and handle your 24-hour digital incorporation today.
Q&A
Choosing the right partner for your Hong Kong business is about more than just checking a box—it’s about navigating a 2026 regulatory landscape that moves fast. Here is a direct Q&A to help you understand how Bestar Hong Kong simplifies the journey.
Q: Is a Company Secretary actually mandatory in 2026?
A: Yes. Under the Hong Kong Companies Ordinance, every limited company must appoint a Company Secretary. If you are a sole director, you cannot act as your own secretary. In 2026, this role is critical because the secretary acts as the primary point of contact for the government regarding your Unique Business Identifier (UBI) and Significant Controllers Register (SCR).
Q: What is the "UBI," and why should I care?
A: As of early 2024, Hong Kong replaced various identification numbers with the Unique Business Identifier (UBI). Your Business Registration Number (BRN) is now your single ID for all government departments.
How Bestar helps: We ensure your transition to the UBI system is seamless, updating your statutory records so your company remains identifiable and compliant across the e-Registry and Inland Revenue systems.
Q: Can Bestar help if I don't live in Hong Kong?
A: Absolutely. Most of our clients are international entrepreneurs. We provide the two things a non-resident cannot:
A Licensed Secretary: A local resident or licensed TCSP (like Bestar).
A Registered Office Address: A physical HK address for official government mail (P.O. boxes are not allowed).
Q: How long does it really take to get a business license?
A: If you use Bestar’s digital incorporation service, we can often have your company formed in as little as 1 hour via the e-Registry. Paper-based applications still take about 4–5 working days.
Q: What are the total government fees I need to pay?
A: For the 2025/2026 period, the standard government costs for a 1-year certificate are approximately:
Incorporation Fee: HKD 1,545
Business Registration Fee: HKD 2,200
Levy: HKD 150
Total: HKD 3,895 (Note: Bestar includes these in our all-in packages to avoid surprises).
Q: Can Bestar help with the "Banking Hurdle"?
A: This is our specialty. Opening a bank account in HK is notoriously difficult in 2026 due to strict AML (Anti-Money Laundering) rules.
Traditional Banks: We prepare your "Bank Onboarding Kit" with CPA-certified documents.
Digital Alternatives: We have direct partnerships with Neobanks like Airwallex and Statrys, often securing account approval in 48–72 hours for foreign directors.
Q: What happens if I want to switch my current secretary to Bestar?
A: It’s a simple 3-step process that we handle entirely:
We prepare a Board Resolution to appoint Bestar.
We file Form ND2A with the Companies Registry.
We coordinate the transfer of your statutory books from your old agent.
Next Step with Bestar
Would you like a custom fee breakdown for your specific business type, or would you like to check if your preferred company name is available in the 2026 registry?
Why Choose a Licensed Company Secretary in Hong Kong: The Bestar 2026 Advantage
How to Register a Business in Hong Kong (2026 Complete Guide)
By law, every Hong Kong limited company must appoint a Company Secretary. However, there is a massive difference between a "placeholder" and a licensed compliance partner. In 2026, with the full integration of the Unique Business Identifier (UBI) and stricter AML (Anti-Money Laundering) guidelines, professional oversight is no longer optional—it is a strategic necessity.
The Bestar Difference: More Than Just a Requirement
Bestar Hong Kong is a fully licensed Trust or Company Service Provider (TCSP). This means we are officially vetted by the Companies Registry to manage the legal backbone of your business.
1. The Risks of "DIY" or Unlicensed Secretaries
Many founders attempt to save costs by appointing a local friend or an unlicensed agent. In 2026, this often leads to:
Late Filing Penalties: Missing the NAR1 (Annual Return) deadline results in escalating fines up to HKD 50,000.
SCR Non-Compliance: Failure to maintain a Significant Controllers Register (SCR) is a criminal offense. Bestar acts as your Designated Representative, ensuring these records are audit-ready 24/7.
Banking Red Flags: Banks often reject accounts if they see a "high-risk" or unverified company secretary listed on your records.
2. Bestar’s Core Secretarial Services
As your licensed partner, Bestar provides a "Set and Forget" compliance ecosystem:
Service | What Bestar Handles | Your Benefit |
|---|---|---|
Statutory Filings | Preparation and submission of NNC1, ND2A, and NAR1. | Guaranteed accuracy and zero late fees. |
TCSP Licensed Address | A prestigious Sheung Wan/Central registered office. | Compliant with government mail requirements. |
UBI Management | Updating your business records under the new UBI system. | Seamless identity across all govt departments. |
Governance Support | Drafting board minutes and AGM resolutions. | Legal protection for your directors. |
3. Beyond Paperwork: Strategic 2026 Support
Unlike "registration-only" agents, Bestar provides a holistic suite of business solutions:
Bank Account Opening Assistance: We pre-screen your documents to meet the strict KYC requirements of both traditional banks (HSBC, BOC) and digital-first alternatives (Airwallex).
Offshore Tax Claims: If your business operates entirely outside of Hong Kong, Bestar’s tax experts help you apply for Offshore Profits Tax Exemption.
Regional Expansion: With offices in Singapore and Malaysia, Bestar is the ideal partner for firms using Hong Kong as a hub for Southeast Asian growth.
4. How to Switch to Bestar (The 1-Week Process)
Switching your current company secretary to Bestar is a seamless, paperless process that takes approximately 5–7 business days.
Board Resolution: We draft the documents to appoint Bestar.
Notification (ND2A): We file the change with the Companies Registry within the 15-day statutory limit.
Record Transfer: We coordinate with your previous provider to collect your statutory books and company seal.
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQ)
Is Bestar a licensed TCSP? Yes. Bestar operates under a valid TCSP License issued by the Hong Kong Companies Registry, ensuring all secretarial actions are legally recognized.
Can a foreigner appoint Bestar if they don't live in HK? Absolutely. Bestar provides the mandatory local presence and local address required by the Companies Ordinance, allowing you to manage your company from anywhere in the world.
What are the 2026 government fees? The standard fee for an Annual Return (NAR1) is HKD 105 (if filed on time). Business Registration Certificate (BRC) fees vary by year but typically range from HKD 2,150 to HKD 2,250.
Ready to Secure Your Company's Standing?
Don't leave your compliance to chance. Partner with a licensed leader who understands the 2026 regulatory landscape.
Would you like Bestar to [Review Your Current Compliance Status] or Provide a Quote for Incorporation?