Hong Kong company formation cost.
A Hong Kong Limited needs no resident director (the key advantage over Singapore) but does require an annual audit. Here is the complete 2026 Hong Kong formation cost, in HKD and USD.
What you actually pay, line by line.
| Item | Amount | Note |
|---|---|---|
| Companies Registry incorporation | HK$1,545 (USD 198) | One-time |
| Business Registration Certificate | HK$2,350 (USD 301) | From 1 April 2026; annual |
| Company secretary (mandatory) | HK$2,000 – 4,000 (USD 256 – 512) | Per year |
| Registered office | HK$1,500 – 3,000 (USD 192 – 384) | Per year |
| ArxSetup professional fee | from USD 3,000 | KYC, filing, bank introductions |
| Year-1 all-in | from USD 5,800 (HK$45,000) | |
| Annual audit + compliance | HK$20,000 – 35,000 (USD 2,560 – 4,480) | Mandatory; no small-company exemption |
Government fees are pass-through and may be revised by the regulator without notice. AED/USD conversions are indicative. ArxSetup professional fees are fixed and quoted in writing before engagement. Figures current May 2026.
Reviewed by qualified counsel within ArxSetup and our affiliated practices, Neo Legal (UAE) and Cornwalls (Australia). Figures verified against primary regulator sources. Last reviewed: May 2026. Est. 2021 · DDA Licence 107229 · direct registry filing partner. How we review →
Common questions.
The questions clients ask most before committing. Current to 2026, reviewed by counsel.
How much does it cost to form a Hong Kong company in 2026?
From USD 5,800 all-in for year one — mandatory government fees HK$3,895 (Companies Registry HK$1,545 + Business Registration Certificate HK$2,350), company secretary, registered office, plus the ArxSetup professional fee.
Does Hong Kong require a resident director?
No — a Hong Kong Limited needs only one director (any nationality, no residency requirement) and one shareholder, who can be the same person. This is the key structural advantage over Singapore.
Does a Hong Kong company need an audit?
Yes — unlike Singapore, Hong Kong has no small-company audit exemption. Every Hong Kong Limited files annual audited financial statements signed by a HKICPA-registered CPA. Budget HK$20,000–35,000/year for audit and compliance.
How long does Hong Kong incorporation take?
1–2 working days via the Companies Registry e-Services portal.
How does Hong Kong territorial tax work?
Onshore profits are taxed at 8.25% on the first HK$2M and 16.5% above; offshore-sourced profits may be exempt under an Offshore Profits Claim, subject to IRD review.
This page is general information, reviewed May 2026 — not legal, tax or immigration advice, and it does not create a client relationship. Advice specific to your circumstances is provided only under a signed engagement letter. Government fees are set by the relevant authority and may change without notice. Where local registered agents are required, we coordinate with licensed partners and disclose their role in writing.