To get a Certificate of Incorporation in Hong Kong, you’ll need to follow these steps:
1. Choose a Company Name: Select a unique company name that complies with the regulations set by the Hong Kong Companies Registry. The name should not be identical to any existing company names and should not contain any sensitive words without approval.
2. Engage a Corporate Services Provider: While it is possible to handle the incorporation process on your own, many people prefer to engage a corporate services provider or a law firm with expertise in company registration to ensure everything is done correctly and efficiently.
3. Gather Required Documents: You will need the following documents for the incorporation process:
- A duly completed incorporation form (Form NNC1 for a company limited by shares)
- A copy of the company’s Articles of Association
- A copy of the company’s Memorandum of Association
- A copy of the passport or Hong Kong ID card of each director and shareholder
- Registered office address in Hong Kong
- Details of company secretary (a Hong Kong resident or a Hong Kong-based corporate entity)
- A declaration of compliance with the Companies Ordinance
4. Submit the Application: Your corporate services provider or law firm will help you prepare the necessary documents and submit them to the Hong Kong Companies Registry. The current application fee for incorporation is HKD 1,720.
5. Wait for Processing: The processing time for the Certificate of Incorporation in Hong Kong is typically four working days if submitted online or around seven working days if submitted in hard copy. However, it can take longer if there are issues or backlogs.
6. Open a Bank Account: Once you have obtained the Certificate of Incorporation, you can use it to open a bank account for your newly incorporated company.
7. Post-Incorporation Requirements: After incorporation, there are other post-registration obligations, such as applying for a Business Registration Certificate, obtaining a company seal, setting up accounting and bookkeeping systems, and ensuring compliance with taxation and employment regulations.
The process and requirements may change over time, please contact us at Hong Kong Company Formation for more details about the process of getting a certificate of incorporation in Hong Kong.