The options
| Structure | Limited liability | Typical use |
|---|---|---|
| Private company limited by shares | Yes | Trading, services, holding company |
| Public company | Yes | Listed companies, large groups |
| Company limited by guarantee | Yes | Charities and associations |
| Registered non-Hong Kong company (branch) | No, the parent is liable | Foreign company operating directly |
| Representative office | No | Liaison only |
| Sole proprietorship / partnership | No | Small local businesses |
Why most choose a private limited company
- Liability limited to share capital
- A single shareholder and a single director are enough, of any nationality
- Easy to own a mainland WFOE as a holding company
- Familiar to banks and investors
Branch of an overseas company
A foreign company can register a place of business in Hong Kong as a “non-Hong Kong company”. There’s no separate legal entity, so the parent carries the liabilities, and the parent’s accounts may be relevant for tax.
Next steps
See Hong Kong company formation for requirements and timelines, and Hong Kong profits tax for how the company will be taxed.
Reviewed by Choi & Partners · 3 October 2026. This page is general information, not legal advice.