HK Representative Office
Hong Kong Representative Office Registration
Registering a Representative Office in Hong Kong.
Open a Representative Office (RO) in Hong Kong
A representative office in Hong Kong is a non-revenue-generating entity set up by a foreign company to establish a presence in the market. Unlike an LLC, a representative office cannot engage in direct business activities, such as selling products or services. Instead, it is limited to conducting market research, promotional activities, or acting as a liaison between the parent company and local partners or customers.
The representative office is not a separate legal entity from its parent company and is fully liable for its actions. This structure is ideal for companies that want to explore the Hong Kong market, build relationships, or gather insights without committing to full-scale operations or incorporation.
Key Characteristics of a Rep. Office in Hong Kong
Characteristics of a Representative Office in Hong Kong
| Shareholders | 1 to 50 |
| Shareholders liabilities | Unlimited |
| Residency required for shareholders? | Yes |
| Registered address required? | Yes |
| Director required? | At least 1 secretary |
| Corporate tax rate | 8.25% on the first 2 million hkd |
| 16.5% on remainder | |
| Minimum share capital | 1 hkd |
Hong Kong Representative Office Registration Procedure
1. Company Name
Deciding on an available name.
- Company name submitted for approval
- Shareholder/s
- Share capital
2. Document submission
Fill out application form and submit the required documents.
- Passport or local ID number of all shareholders and directors.
If a shareholder is a company the company name, registration number, passport scan copies of directors, date and country of incorporation are required.
- Registered address
3. LLC registration
Once approved, receive the Certificate of Incorporation & Business Registration Certificate, officially registering your company.
- Certificate of Incorporation
- Business Registration Certificate
Hong Kong Company Types
LLC
A popular business structure for entrepreneurs and businesses seeking flexibility, limited liability, and ease of international operations.
This structure is ideal for companies involved in trade, consulting, or international operations looking to limit personal liability while gaining access to a strategic business hub in Asia.
Sole Proprietorship
The simplest business structure, where the owner has full control and bears all liabilities.
Ideal for small businesses offering professional services, as it requires minimal setup and maintenance. Entrepreneurs looking for a straightforward structure with fewer compliance requirements may find a sole proprietorship the best fit.
Branch Office
For companies established overseas that want to conduct operations without forming a separate legal entity.
Suited for businesses that want to explore the Hong Kong market without full incorporation, especially those focused on sales, marketing, or supporting existing clients.
Representative Office
For companies conducting nonprofit activities.
Businesses focused on gathering market insights, building relationships, or overseeing local suppliers may find a Rep Office the most suitable option.
Partnership
A business structure where two or more individuals or entities share ownership, responsibilities, and profits.
A Partnership in Hong Kong can take several forms, including General Partnerships (GPs), Limited Partnerships (LPs), and Limited Liability Partnerships (LLPs). Each one characterized by a different liability status of partners.
More information on Hong Kong
Our Working Process
1. Consultation & Proposal
We (can) advise you on the best solution for your business model and send you our comprehensive proposal.
2. Signing & Payment
After reviewing the proposal, we sign the service contract and receive your payment.
3. Preparing Documents
We send you an application form as well as the list of documents we need from your side.
FAQs
What is a representative office in Hong Kong?
A representative office in Hong Kong is a structure established by a foreign company to conduct non-commercial activities, such as market research, promotional activities, or liaison work. It cannot engage in profit-generating business or sign contracts on behalf of the parent company.
Who can open a representative office in Hong Kong?
Any legally registered foreign company can establish a representative office in Hong Kong. There are no restrictions on the industry or size of the parent company.
What are the key features of a representative office?
Cannot engage in commercial or profit-making activities
Cannot sign contracts or issue invoices
Acts as an extension of the foreign parent company
Primarily used for research, promotion, and liaison purposes
What is the process to set up a representative office in Hong Kong?
The process involves:
Appointing a local representative to oversee administrative matters.
Registering the office with the Inland Revenue Department (IRD) by submitting a Business Registration Application (Form 1(c)).
Paying the required registration fee and obtaining the Business Registration Certificate.