Direct answer
To incorporate a local company in Hong Kong, choose the company type, check the name against the Companies Registry's name index, prepare the incorporation form and articles, and file electronically or in hard copy. The registered office must be in Hong Kong, and sector licences are separate from incorporation.
What the official guidance says
The Companies Registry describes company types and requires the proposed name to be checked against the public company-name index and applicable naming rules.
Company Types and Name Selection in Hong KongA company incorporated outside Hong Kong that establishes a place of business in Hong Kong may have a separate registration route with the Companies Registry.
Registering a Non-Hong Kong CompanyThe Registry identifies core incorporation documents such as the applicable incorporation form, articles of association and notice to the Business Registration Office.
Incorporation Documents in Hong KongHong Kong Companies Registry supports electronic filing through its e-Services infrastructure as well as hard-copy filing routes.
Electronic Incorporation in Hong KongWhen an application is approved, the Registry issues the relevant certificates through electronic or hard-copy channels according to the filing route.
Incorporation Certificates in Hong Kong
Source: Companies Registry guidance, via our in-depth guides:
Company Incorporation Overview checklist for Hong Kong
- Choose the appropriate company type.
- Search the proposed name using the official service.
- Check for third-party intellectual-property conflicts.
- Keep evidence of the name search.
- Confirm whether the business has established a Hong Kong place of business.
- Review the required registration form and certified documents.
- Check the applicable timing rule.
- Keep the overseas constitutional documents and accounts ready where required.
- Confirm whether NNC1 or NNC1G applies.
- Prepare the company articles.
- Prepare the Business Registration Office notice.
- Check for any additional information requested by the Registry.
- Create or use the appropriate e-Services account.
- Prepare the forms in the required format.
- Pay the current official fee through the stated channel.
- Retain electronic submission evidence.
- Use the official filing channel.
- Monitor the registered user message box or collection notice.
- Store both certificates with the incorporation record.
- Confirm any separate permit needs for the planned activity.
Practical focus
Use this page to establish the official starting point, identify the responsible authority, and map the incorporation route before selecting a service provider.
Frequently asked questions
Which authority controls company incorporation overview in Hong Kong?
Companies Registry is the primary authority for the guidance on this page. Other authorities can be involved depending on your activity; re-check the official source before acting.
Where must a Hong Kong company's registered office be?
The Companies Registry states that the registered office of a local limited company must be situated in Hong Kong.
Can I incorporate online?
The Companies Registry supports electronic filing through its e-Services as well as hard-copy filing routes.
Can an overseas company operate in Hong Kong without a new company?
A company incorporated outside Hong Kong that establishes a place of business there may have a separate registration route with the Companies Registry.