Frequently Asked Questions
FAQ for Banking Procedures
Can I open a Hong Kong bank account remotely?
Neobank accounts can be opened 100% remotely, no travel or paperwork headaches. You’ll receive Visa cards with global access, and as a multi‑year top‑ranked banking partner, Get Started HK can connect you directly with a designated bank officer for priority support. However, if you’d prefer a traditional bank account at HSBC, OCBC, DBS, then you need to fly over to HK for a face to face interview.
Can I appoint a representative to meet with bankers on my behalf?
No. Banks in Hong Kong need to meet with the director and shareholder. They do not meet with representatives. That being said, there is no need to worry, opening a neobank account is quick, simple, and fully online. Everything is guided step‑by‑step, so the whole process is fast and hassle‑free.
How long does it take to open a bank account in Hong Kong?
The average account opening time ranges from 3–4 days for neobanks to around 14 days for traditional banks.
Which documents must be submitted to open an account?
Bankers often ask for 5 documents, i.e. the Certificate of incorporation, Business license, Incorporation form NNC1 and articles & associations, and the certificate of incumbency. These items are included in all our incorporation packages.
What are the common questions banks ask?
Banks often ask about the nature of your business, your target customers, the countries you plan to operate in, and the source of funds. They will want details about the products or services you provide, and may inquire about your work or business experience to ensure your answers are consistent and credible.
Do I have to provide supporting documents if requested by the banker?
Yes. Bankers have full discretion when it comes to approving account applications. If they request additional supporting documents, it is important to provide them promptly and accurately. Refusing to submit the required information may result in your application being declined, as banks must comply with specific compliance standards. These documents help the banker verify your business activities, source of funds, and overall credibility. By cooperating and supplying the requested materials, you not only increase the likelihood of approval but also build trust with the bank, ensuring a smoother account opening process.
What are the usual causes of bank rejection?
The most common reason for bank rejection is that clients fail or refuse to provide the necessary supporting documents to substantiate their stated business nature and activities. Banks rely on these documents to verify information and meet compliance requirements, so incomplete or missing evidence often leads to applications being declined.
Could my application be declined by every bank?
It is very rare for all banks to reject an application. Over the years, we have seen fewer than 1% of cases where this has happened. While banks do not disclose specific reasons, such incidents are usually linked to a negative record in another country. For example, if someone has been involved in selling counterfeit goods, payment networks such as Visa or MasterCard may already have flagged refund patterns, and this information is shared across financial institutions worldwide.
Because banks, PayPal, Visa, MasterCard, Shopify, and other platforms exchange data globally, anyone with a high‑risk commercial history, criminal record, or inclusion on anti‑money laundering watch lists will likely face rejection from all banks. In addition, if you are sanctioned by the United Nations or the United States, or if you ever use an account to receive payments from a person or entity sanctioned by the UN or US, your application will be rejected across all banks. We are not saying every rejected case falls into this category, but in our experience, those rare incidents share similar reasons.
What are the leading neobanks in Hong Kong?
The leading neobanks used in Hong Kong include Airwallex, Payoneer, and Currenxie. These platforms are especially popular among startups, SMEs, and international businesses for their digital-first approach, multi-currency accounts, and seamless cross-border payment solutions.
Can Neo Banks provide visa or mastercards?
Yes. Neobanks can provide Visa or Mastercard payment cards. Once issued, the card is typically mailed directly to your registered office address. If needed, we can arrange to forward the card to you securely by post, ensuring safe delivery.
Can GSHK assist me with the bank account opening process?
Yes. GSHK is an expert in the bank account opening process, and we understand the concerns expats often face. Opening a bank account is a crucial step, and we will connect you with our designated bankers at leading neobanks to ensure a smooth experience.
While other CPA firms may also offer referrals, the level of service you receive depends heavily on the partner. For example, GetStarted has been awarded “Partner of the Year” by Airwallex for three consecutive years (the award has only existed for three years). As a result, Airwallex assigns a dedicated team to handle GetStarted referrals, ensuring faster responses and priority treatment.
By contrast, if you are referred by another agent or service provider, the process is similar to walking in without a referral, you may end up waiting in line for days. This is why being referred through GetStarted.HK provides a significantly different and more efficient experience compared to other firms.
How does the usual account application process look?
After your company is registered, we will connect you with our designated banker via email. The banker will guide you step‑by‑step through the account opening form, typically via email or video call. If you have any questions, our own experts are also available to support you. This means you’ll have two dedicated professionals assisting you, one from our team and one from the neobank, ensuring the process is smooth and comfortable for you. “We’ve got your back, so you can move forward.”
Is it required for a Hong Kong company to hold a Hong Kong bank account?
No, it is not mandatory for a Hong Kong company to maintain a local bank account. Many holding or dormant companies are established simply to hold intellectual property and therefore do not require a bank account. A Hong Kong company is fully permitted to open and operate its bank account in other countries, and this practice is 100% legal.
What documentation is needed when opening a bank account outside Hong Kong?
In most cases, overseas banks require apostilled documents issued by the Hong Kong High Court. Once you have the document list from your overseas bank, please let us know and our experts can assist by arranging the necessary apostille from the High Court on your behalf.
FAQ for HK Company Formation
Can a foreigner or non-resident start a company in Hong Kong?
Yes. Hong Kong is foreigner-friendly and allows 100% foreign ownership, local directors or shareholders are not required.
What documents are required by Get Started to register my company in Hong Kong?
To register your company in Hong Kong, we require two key documents: a valid passport and proof of your residential address.
The passport must be current and not expired.
For address verification, the document must be issued within the last three months and can be in the form of a bank statement, utility bill, phone bill, or internet bill. Please ensure that the proof reflects your home address rather than an office or business address.
Can national identity card be used in place of a passport?
No. If you are not from Hong Kong, you must provide a valid passport. If you do not currently hold one, you will need to apply for a passport before proceeding with company registration. Please note that GSHK system can detect fraudulent passports, and any fraudulent activity identified will be reported directly to the relevant government authorities.
What are the language requirements and restrictions for Hong Kong company names?
When choosing a company name in Hong Kong, there are three important rules to follow:
English Naming: English names must end with the word “Limited” and use standard English letters.
No Combined Languages: You cannot combine English words and Chinese characters in a single version of the name. You must have one purely English name and/or one purely Chinese name.
Traditional Chinese Only: If you choose a Chinese name, it must be written in Traditional Chinese characters (Simplified Chinese is not accepted).
Can the last word of the English company name be “Ltd” or “LLC”?
No. Hong Kong Companies Ordinance states that company name must end with the word “Limited”.
What documents will I receive after my company is formed?
Upon company formation, you will receive five key documents:
- Certificate of Incorporation
- Business Registration Certificate (business license)
- Incorporation Form NNC1
- Articles of Association
- Certificate of Incumbency
All of these items are included in our incorporation packages.
Can I change the name of the company after incorporation?
Yes. You can change the name after incorporation. Process takes around 1 – 2 weeks.
Once the company name is updated, the Companies Registry will issue a name change certificate and the Inland Revenue Department will issue a new business license.
What are the minimum requirements for Hong Kong company formation?
To form a company in Hong Kong, the minimum requirements are straightforward. You must appoint at least one director and one shareholder, provide a registered address (which Get Started HK can supply), and engage a local company secretary (Get Started HK can act in this role). At least one share must be issued, and the incorporation details must be properly completed, including submission of Form NNC1 & Articles of association.
Why do I need a Company Secretary in Hong Kong?
In Hong Kong, a company secretary is required by law. They serve as the company’s compliance officer and the primary liaison between your business and the Hong Kong government. Mandated by The Hong Kong Companies Ordinance, every private limited company must appoint a Company Secretary.
What exactly does a Company Secretary do?
Depending on client’s needs, company secretary often guide directors in calling general meetings, preparing and submitting board resolutions in various matters, including but not limited to, director appointments, director removal and share allotments.
Is a Hong Kong office address required for company registration?
Yes, it is necessary to have a registered office address in Hong Kong. We can provide this service, and because we serve many expatriates, we understand their needs well. We also offer mail scanning and forwarding services, ensuring that all official notices are promptly delivered to you by email. This means that expatriates can conveniently manage their company matters anytime and anywhere in the world, with reliable communication guaranteed.
Am I allowed to adjust the shareholder structure of my company?
Yes, you can change the shareholder structure of your company. After incorporation, you may introduce new shareholders or transfer your shares to other parties at any time. This flexibility allows you to adjust ownership as your business grows or circumstances change.
What is the par or nominal value of shares in a Hong Kong limited company?
The concept of par value (or nominal value) has been officially abolished by the Hong Kong government. However, in practice, most companies still adopt a standard of HK$1 per share as the norm. While shares can technically be denominated in any currency, it is generally recommended to follow the conventional approach of issuing shares at HK$1 each for simplicity and consistency.
Is there a minimum share capital requirement for Hong Kong limited companies?
In general, the minimum share capital requirement is HK$1. A Hong Kong company must issue at least one share with HK$1 capital. For practical reference, however, the common norm in Hong Kong is to issue 10,000 shares with HK$10,000 capital. While it is legally acceptable to register with only HK$1, such a low capital may give the impression that the company is not genuinely invested. To align with local practice and convey credibility, it is recommended to follow the standard of 10,000 shares at HK$10,000 capital.
How do I maintain a Hong Kong company?
A Hong Kong company is required to renew its Business Registration Certificate and file the Annual Return (Form NAR1) each year. Our team will typically contact you about one month before your company’s incorporation anniversary. We will then guide you through the renewal process step by step and assist with preparing and submitting all necessary documents to ensure compliance.
What is the corporate profit tax rate in Hong Kong?
Hong Kong adopt a territorial source principle of taxation. Only profits which are sourced in Hong Kong are taxable. In other words, you must not have customers, suppliers and employees in Hong Kong. If you apply for offshore status, the tax rate is 0%.
If you do not apply for the offshore status, the profit tax rate is 8.25% for the first HK$2 million in profit. Rest of the profit is taxed at 16.5%.
Does Get Started HK offer bookkeeping and tax filing services?
Yes, we are a CPA firm, and we provide accounting, auditing and tax filing services. In addition to company incorporation, we support clients with ongoing compliance such as bookkeeping, preparation of financial statements, and filing of annual returns and profit tax.
Do I have to pay accounting fee upfront?
No. In Hong Kong, the government only requires your first audit or offshore report 18 months after incorporation. It means that accounting fees are payable 18 months later — not upfront. Some foreign‑owned firms may demand fees 18 months in advance, tying up your cash unnecessarily. With Get Started HK, there’s no need to pay accounting fee on day one, you can keep every dollar working for your business, focus on development, and start generating profit before any accounting costs are due. Founders understand founders, and we know cash flow is king.
What is the reason some firms collect accounting fees in advance?
Only a small number of firms (some foreign‑owned firms) particularly those not firmly established in Hong Kong, use tactics to persuade clients to pay up to 18 months of fees in advance, often offering only a minor discount in return. As founders ourselves, we recognize that cash flow is vital for entrepreneurs. It is also worth noting that some foreign‑owned firms do not follow the standard practices in Hong Kong and depend heavily on upfront payments simply to keep their operations running.
At what point must I file the initial accounting and audit report?
The first Profit Tax Return is issued about 18 months after the company’s incorporation date. The Inland Revenue Department then grants an additional 3 months to prepare the required reports, this means you have up to 21 months to finalize your records.
In other words, you shall prepare and pay for the accounting and auditing fee 18 months later. Once the first report has been filed, audit records must be submitted annually.
How long does it take to register a company in Hong Kong?
The official processing time is 24–48 hours, depending on your needs. If you’re in a rush, let us know, we can expedite the process. For companies with more complex structures or multiple investors, careful planning is required to ensure everything is set up smoothly. Whether you’re a solo entrepreneur or a group of investors, our team has the expertise and experience to guide you through the entire journey and make incorporation seamless.
FAQ for Trademark Registration
Does registering a company name with the Hong Kong government confer any trademark rights in respect of the name?
No. Registering a company name does not grant any intellectual property or trademark rights. To protect your brand name, you must file a separate trademark application.
How do I classify my goods and services for trademark registration?
Under the Hong Kong Trade Marks Ordinance, goods and services are divided into 45 international classes. You can review the full list of classifications on the IPD website.
Can I register my trademark under more than one class?
Yes. You may apply for multiple classes if your goods and services fall into different categories.
In what language will my trademark certificate be issued?
The certificate will be issued in the language used in your application. If you apply in English, the certificate will be in English, if you apply in Chinese, it will be in Chinese.
Does a Hong Kong trademark registration give me rights in Mainland China?
No. Hong Kong and Mainland China operate under the principle of “One Country, Two Systems.” Trademark rights are territorial. Registration in Hong Kong does not extend to Mainland China. China follows a first‑to‑file system, meaning the first applicant secures the rights, regardless of prior use.
Does a Mainland China trademark registration give me rights in Hong Kong?
No. Trademark rights in Mainland China do not apply in Hong Kong. Separate applications must be filed in each jurisdiction.
How long does trademark registration take in Hong Kong?
If there are no objections or complications, the Trademark Registrar typically takes at least 6 months to process and approve a single application.
Can I claim convention priority in Hong Kong?
Yes. You may claim priority within the first 6 months of filing your application, provided you declare it at the time of submission.
What does “priority” mean? Priority is a right under the Paris Convention for the Protection of Industrial Property. It allows you to use the filing date of your first trademark application (in a member country) as the effective filing date in Hong Kong, as long as you apply in Hong Kong within 6 months. It protects you against competitors who might try to register a similar mark in Hong Kong after you filed abroad.
Can I oppose an earlier filed competing application?
You can oppose to an application if you have a priority claim and the competing mark is within the opposition period. In general, it is three months after publication.
Will the Registrar review my convention priority documents?
In most cases, you do not need to submit convention documents upfront. The Registrar will only request supporting documents if a potential issue arises during examination.
FAQ for Company Maintenance
When is the next fee due after company incorporation?
Your next fee is due 12 months after the date of incorporation. Each Business Registration Certificate is valid for one year, and renewal is required to keep your company in good standing. Likewise, all services included in our incorporation package are valid for one full year. To continue operating smoothly, you’ll need to renew both the license and our service. Don’t worry, we’ll send you a reminder one month in advance.
How much does it cost to renew the company secretary service after one year?
Our company secretary service fee is HK$1,400/ year. Just like in the first year, we ensure full compliance with the Companies Ordinance while delivering the same premium service.
At GetStarted.hk, you won’t be stuck with automated inquiry tickets. Instead, you’ll have a dedicated account manager reachable by phone, email, or WhatsApp, plus instant chat support, so issues are resolved quickly and remotely.
How much does it cost to renew the registered address service after one year?
Our registered address service is HK$1,400/year. Located in the heart of Central, just steps away from major banks, it offers both prestige and convenience.
Our premium advantage is timely letter notifications, no delays, no lost mail. A dedicated team ensures government and bank notices reach you promptly.
What is the annual business license government fee?
The current business license fee is HK$2,150 per year. Please note that the government fee may change annually. In cases where subsidies are offered, the fee can be reduced significantly, sometimes as low as HK$150.
Do I need to submit any documents to the government annually?
Yes. Alongside renewing the Business Registration Certificate, every company must file the Annual Return (Form NAR1). It covers company details like share structure and directors, no financials required. The government fee is HK$105, and our experts guide you through the process.
Are there extra annual documents to prepare (such as updating the director register), and will I be charged additional fees for them?
No additional fees. Internal records like director register, shareholder declarations, significant controller register, and meeting minutes are all included in your renewal service.
What is the process for paying renewal fees to both GSHK and the government?
You can pay the government renewal fee by wire transfer, cheque, or directly at the government office.
Alternatively, the most hassle‑free option is to let us handle everything for you. With a trusted company secretary in Hong Kong, backed by strong client reviews, you won’t need to worry about paperwork or deadlines.
We’ll send you a reminder along with the total renewal fee invoice, and once you’ve paid, we’ll take care of the rest and provide the record right after.
How much do I need to pay in total for renewal, covering government and GSHK fees?
The total renewal fee typically ranges from HK$4,355 to HK$5,755, depending on whether you use our company secretary and registered address services or prefer to handle filings yourself. In years when government subsidies apply, the fee can be as low as HK$2,000. Simply contact our incorporation expert, we’ll tailor a package to your needs and provide all costs upfront, with no hidden charges.
My current service provider missed my filings. Can I switch to GetStarted.hk, and will you help fix this?
Yes, definitely. We handle many switch‑over cases, especially from clients who previously used untrained competitors. Some of these providers spend heavily on marketing and web design but fail to invest in knowledgeable staff, often outsourcing to back offices overseas. As a result, their clients suffer because filings are missed and compliance issues are only addressed after complaints.
At GetStarted.hk, we regularly help expats, who switch to us, fix late filings and get everything back on track. We also provide a complimentary session to walk you through Hong Kong’s compliance requirements and deadlines, so you’ll clearly understand the process. Reach out to us, we’ll rectify the filings and ensure you remain compliant going forward.
If I want to switch to GetStarted.hk, what documents do I need to provide?
If you’d like to switch to GetStarted.hk, we usually need your Certificate of Incorporation, Business Registration Certificate, latest Annual Return (NAR1), and Articles of Association. Sometimes switch‑over clients have lost records, but we can help retrieve or recreate them if needed.
FAQ for Company De-registration
Can all types of company apply for de-registration?
The answer is No. The de-registration process is only available for Hong Kong private company or Hong Kong company limited by guarantee. To apply for de-registration, the company shall also be solvent at the moment of application.
Apart from being solvent, is there a specific requirement or threshold for de-registration?
Yes. If the company wants to make use of the simple de-registration process, the company shall observe the following rules.
- All company members shall agree to the close down
- The Company has never started business operation, or it has stopped operation for more than 3 months.
- The company must not have debts or other outstanding liabilities
- The company must not be a party in any legal proceedings
- The company shall not have immovable assets in Hong Kong
If the company decides to close, does the company need to file outstanding NAR1 form?
Yes. A Hong Kong company shall always file NAR1 form on time until the company is fully de-registered. If you do not comply with the rules, close down will not be approved. Penalty will also apply. In worst case scenario, the Government will issue summons against the company or the company director.
My company has already submitted de-registration forms. However, I have changed a new address. Do I have to inform the Companies Registry?
Yes. You have to inform the Companies Registry in writing if you have a new correspondence address. If the company decides to change its registered office during the close down process, the company shall also file NR1 form in the prescribed time frame. If the director has a new address, then the company shall file the ND2B. A company shall comply with Chapter 622 of the Ordinance until the application is finalized.
My company has already started the de-registration process. How can I confirm the notice has been published in the Gazette?
As per the Companies ordinance, close down notice has to be placed in Government Gazette. If you want to find out whether the notice has been published, you can visit the Public Search Centre in the Companies Registry office. You can conduct a search in the system index. For easy reference, Government Gazettes are normally published on Friday so you can check it on a weekly basis
What is the difference between de-registration and winding up?
Both actions will result in close down of the company. Winding up is usually more expensive. It includes liquidating assets of a company, and the company shall distribute its assets to members or creditors. Winding up can be voluntary or non-voluntary. Conversely, a solvent company can choose to de-register in accordance to section 750 of the Company law in Hong Kong. While the process can take up to 5 – 8 months, it is relatively simple and cheap.
I closed the company by mistake. Can I restore a de-registered company?
Yes. It is possible to restore a company, but it can be costly and difficult. You can hire a lawyer and make an application to the Court. A court order is needed for this action.
How long does it take to restore a de-registered company?
Once the company obtains a court order, the process takes around 2 months. If the company name has been taken by another entity, you have to change name in 28 days.
I heard that I can restore my “de-registered company” by administrative restoration. Is court order still mandatory?
Administrative restoration only applies to company which has been struck off by the HK government. Hence, this option is not available to company which is closed by de-registration.
I breached the company law and my company has been struck off by the Companies Registry. Can I restore it by administrative restoration?
Yes. If your company has been struck off by the Government, you may be able to restore it by administrative restoration. To apply, you must be a director or a member of the company.
