HK Branch Office
Hong Kong Branch Office Registration
Registering a Branch Office in Hong Kong.
Open a Branch Office (BO) in Hong Kong
A branch office in Hong Kong is an extension of a foreign parent company, allowing it to conduct business in Hong Kong without forming a separate legal entity. Unlike an LLC, a branch office is not a distinct legal entity from its parent company, meaning that the parent company is fully liable for all debts (see unlimited liability) and obligations incurred by the branch.
The branch office operates under the same name as the parent company and can engage in commercial activities, enter contracts, and conduct business operations in Hong Kong. Ideal for foreign companies looking to expand into Hong Kong while maintaining control and management directly from the head office.
Key Characteristics of a Branch Office in Hong Kong
Characteristics of a Branch 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 Branch 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 branch office in Hong Kong?
A branch office in Hong Kong is an extension of a foreign parent company. It is not a separate legal entity but operates as part of the parent company, conducting business activities in Hong Kong on its behalf. The parent company assumes full liability for the branch office’s debts and obligations.
Who can open a branch office in Hong Kong?
Any foreign company that is legally registered in its home jurisdiction can open a branch office in Hong Kong. The company must appoint a local representative to handle administrative matters.
What are the key features of a branch office in Hong Kong?
Not a separate legal entity; liabilities are borne by the parent company
Can conduct profit-generating activities
Must use the same name as the parent company
Subject to Hong Kong’s tax and compliance regulations
What is the process to register a branch office in Hong Kong?
The registration process includes:
Submitting an application to the Companies Registry with:
A completed Form NN1 (Application for Registration of a Non-Hong Kong Company)
Certified copies of the parent company’s incorporation documents
A certified copy of the parent company’s constitutional documents (e.g., Articles of Association)
Details of the branch office’s local representative
Paying the registration fee
Obtaining the Certificate of Registration of Non-Hong Kong Company
What taxes does a branch office need to pay in Hong Kong?
Branch offices are subject to the same tax obligations as local companies in Hong Kong, including:
Profits Tax: 8.25% on the first HKD 2 million of assessable profits and 16.5% on the remaining profits
Employer’s Mandatory Provident Fund (MPF) contributions for employees
Can a branch office hire employees in Hong Kong?
Yes, a branch office can hire employees in Hong Kong. You must comply with local employment laws, including mandatory MPF contributions and statutory leave entitlements.