VITA LIBERTA
type: channel
date: 2025-12-15T18:31:01Z
update period: hourly
update frequency: 1
update base: 2000-01-01T12:00+00:00
items: Pros and Cons of Opening and Managing a Business in Hong Kong
items: How to Obtain an MSO License in Hong Kong: A Step-by-Step Guide for Businesses
items: Hong Kong Residence Permit Through Employment: Professional Advice and Common Mistakes
items: Residence Permit in Hong Kong for Entrepreneurs: Guide
items: Business Registration in Hong Kong: BRC, BRN, UBI
items: How to Close a Company in Hong Kong: A Complete Guide
items: Temporary freezing of a company in Hong Kong: How to minimize maintenance costs.
items: How to Conduct a Share Issuance in Hong Kong: A Comprehensive Guide for Companies
items: Apostille of Company Documents in Hong Kong: A Complete Guide
items: Key Requirements for Keeping Primary Documents in Hong Kong (Record keeping): A Comprehensive Guide for Businesses

Pros and Cons of Opening and Managing a Business in Hong Kong
type: item
creator: ignisio
date: 2025-11-25T09:22:10Z
subject: Blog
subject: Business
description: The “one country, two systems” concept provides startups in Hong Kong, as a Special Administrative Region (SAR) of China, with extensive opportunities for growth. Annually, the city ranks at the top of global ratings, indicating its openness to business activities. So, what could be the key advantages of opening a company in Hong Kong specifically […]
encoded: The “one country, two systems” concept provides startups in Hong Kong, as a Special Administrative Region (SAR) of China, with extensive opportunities for growth. Annually, the city ranks at the top of global ratings, indicating its openness to business activities. So, what could be the key advantages of opening a company in Hong Kong specifically for you? Registration Process First of all, it is worth noting the timelines, financial investment, and remote work format. For instance, registration takes 2 days, the minimum share capital threshold is 1 Hong Kong dollar, and there is a simplified procedure for document legalization via apostille. Overall, the costs at the company formation stage are very low compared to other jurisdictions. The lower threshold for business registration cost here starts from 990 US dollars. <img fetchpriority="high" decoding="async" width="979" height="1024" src="https://www.vitaliberta.hk/wp-content/uploads/2025/11/1.-opening-a-business-in-hong-kong-quickly-and-with-minimal-investment-979x1024.webp" alt="" class="wp-image-15922" srcset="https://www.vitaliberta.hk/wp-content/uploads/2025/11/1.-opening-a-business-in-hong-kong-quickly-and-with-minimal-investment-979x1024.webp 979w, https://www.vitaliberta.hk/wp-content/uploads/2025/11/1.-opening-a-business-in-hong-kong-quickly-and-with-minimal-investment-287x300.webp 287w, https://www.vitaliberta.hk/wp-content/uploads/2025/11/1.-opening-a-business-in-hong-kong-quickly-and-with-minimal-investment-768x803.webp 768w, https://www.vitaliberta.hk/wp-content/uploads/2025/11/1.-opening-a-business-in-hong-kong-quickly-and-with-minimal-investment-143x150.webp 143w, https://www.vitaliberta.hk/wp-content/uploads/2025/11/1.-opening-a-business-in-hong-kong-quickly-and-with-minimal-investment.webp 1429w" sizes="(max-width: 979px) 100vw, 979px" /> In the SAR, renting a physical office is not mandatory, so it is more than feasible to conduct business outside of Hong Kong by opening a bank account remotely …

How to Obtain an MSO License in Hong Kong: A Step-by-Step Guide for Businesses
type: item
creator: ignisio
date: 2025-11-19T13:17:28Z
subject: Blog
subject: Business
description: Since 1 April 2012, the regulation of Money Service Operators (MSOs) in Hong Kong has been carried out by the Customs and Excise Department (C&ED). The regulator’s authority is established under the Anti-Money Laundering and Counter-Terrorist Financing Ordinance (Cap. 615, AMLO). An MSO licence is mandatory for any person—whether an individual or a legal entity—who […]
encoded: Since 1 April 2012, the regulation of Money Service Operators (MSOs) in Hong Kong has been carried out by the Customs and Excise Department (C&ED). The regulator’s authority is established under the Anti-Money Laundering and Counter-Terrorist Financing Ordinance (Cap. 615, AMLO). An MSO licence is mandatory for any person—whether an individual or a legal entity—who carries on or intends to carry on a money service business in Hong Kong as a commercial activity. <img loading="lazy" decoding="async" width="1024" height="461" src="https://www.vitaliberta.hk/wp-content/uploads/2025/11/1.-who-issues-the-licences_-1024x461.webp" alt="" class="wp-image-15556" srcset="https://www.vitaliberta.hk/wp-content/uploads/2025/11/1.-who-issues-the-licences_-1024x461.webp 1024w, https://www.vitaliberta.hk/wp-content/uploads/2025/11/1.-who-issues-the-licences_-300x135.webp 300w, https://www.vitaliberta.hk/wp-content/uploads/2025/11/1.-who-issues-the-licences_-768x346.webp 768w, https://www.vitaliberta.hk/wp-content/uploads/2025/11/1.-who-issues-the-licences_-250x113.webp 250w, https://www.vitaliberta.hk/wp-content/uploads/2025/11/1.-who-issues-the-licences_.webp 1363w" sizes="auto, (max-width: 1024px) 100vw, 1024px" /> Money service activities are defined as two types of business: Money changing service This refers to the commercial activity of exchanging currencies carried out within Hong Kong. The following are not subject to regulation: Currency exchange incidental to a primary business activity (e.g., a retail store accepting payment in foreign currency); Currency exchange conducted by a hotel manager, provided both of the following conditions are met: the service is offered exclusively to hotel guests and only within the hotel premises; transactions are limited to purchasing foreign currency from guests in exchange for Hong Kong dollars. 2. Remittance service This refers to a commercial activity that includes one or more of the following actions: Sending money outside Hong Kong o…

Hong Kong Residence Permit Through Employment: Professional Advice and Common Mistakes
type: item
creator: ignisio
date: 2025-03-26T14:43:15Z
subject: Blog
subject: Other
description: Working and living in Hong Kong attracts many foreigners due to the developed economy, high standards of living and the international status of the SAR. However, for legal work and long-term stay, a work visa is required, which subsequently opens the door to a permanent residence permit (PR). In this article, we explain in detail each step of the application, requirements and advice on obtaining a visa, as well as analyze common mistakes to avoid.
encoded: Working and living in Hong Kong attracts many foreigners due to the developed economy, high standards of living and the international status of the SAR. However, for legal work and long-term stay, a work visa is required, which subsequently opens the door to a permanent residence permit (PR). In this article, we explain in detail each step of the application, requirements and advice on obtaining a visa, as well as analyze common mistakes to avoid. Main types of work visas in Hong Kong Hong Kong offers several work visa programs depending on the applicant’s qualifications and professional experience. Each program has its own characteristics, and choosing the right one depends on income level, citizenship, education and a number of other factors. Familiarization with the main programs will help you understand which visa is best for you. Below are the main categories of work visas and their requirements. General Employment Policy (GEP) The program is designed for highly qualified and experienced professionals. GEP requires an offer from a Hong Kong company and allows for a stay of 36 months with the possibility of extension. The employer must provide evidence that the salary offered is in line with market standards, and the candidate has unique experience or knowledge that cannot be found in the local market. GEP has no quotas and is not tied to any sector. This entry procedure does not apply to: Nationals of China residing on the mainland; and Nationals of Afghanistan, Cuba and Korea (Democratic People’s Republic of). Mainland China Specialist Visitor Program (ASMTP) ASMTP targets skilled workers from mainland China, supporting key industries important to Hong Kong’s economy. To obtain an ASMTP visa, you must demonstrate relevant work experience and qualifications required for a specific position. Quality Migrant Admissions Scheme (QMAS) QMAS operates on a points system that evaluates parameters such as education, professional experience and language skills. The progr…

Residence Permit in Hong Kong for Entrepreneurs: Guide
type: item
creator: ignisio
date: 2025-03-25T19:53:07Z
subject: Blog
subject: Other
description: This article outlines the process of obtaining a residence permit for entrepreneurs, including the main stages, requirements, and useful tips to increase the chances of successful application approval.
encoded: Hong Kong is one of the world’s leading financial centers, attracting entrepreneurs from around the globe due to its favorable tax regime and strategic location. For businesspeople looking to enter international markets and leverage all the advantages of Hong Kong, obtaining a residence permit becomes a key step. This article outlines the process of obtaining a residence permit for entrepreneurs, including the main stages, requirements, and useful tips to increase the chances of successful application approval. What you will learn from this guide: What visas are available for entrepreneurs in Hong Kong. How to register a company and obtain all necessary documents. How to properly prepare a business plan for a successful application. How to ensure your business complies with local legal standards. Features of visa renewal and obtaining permanent residency. Legal Aspects of Obtaining a Residence Permit in Hong Kong for Entrepreneurs In this context, a residence permit refers to a visa obtained based on conducting business in Hong Kong on behalf of a company or investing in a business where the applicant is the main shareholder or partner (Investor visa, entrepreneur visa, or business visa). The issuance of visas for entrepreneurs (investors) is regulated by the Hong Kong Immigration Department under the General Employment Policy (GEP). The program aims to attract skilled foreign professionals and entrepreneurs capable of contributing to the region’s economic development. Benefits of an Entrepreneur Visa in Hong Kong It’s worth noting that a visa is not required for conducting business in Hong Kong. Both shareholders and directors of a company can be non-residents without any requirements for permits or visas. However, when an entrepreneur wants to reside permanently in Hong Kong, conduct business, and work fully in the special administrative region, an appropriate visa is required. Holders of an investor (entrepreneur) visa have the right to legally reside, conduct bu…

Business Registration in Hong Kong: BRC, BRN, UBI
type: item
creator: ignisio
date: 2025-03-20T23:34:59Z
subject: Blog
subject: Registration, liquidation of companies
description: According to the provisions of the Business Registration Ordinance (Chapter 310) ("BRO"), all individuals engaging in business activities in Hong Kong are required to register their business with the Business Registration Office of the Inland Revenue Department, except for exempted businesses.
encoded: Business Registration in Hong Kong Business registration in Hong Kong is a mandatory step for all companies planning to operate in this jurisdiction. Business registration in Hong Kong first became mandatory in the early 20th century with the introduction of the Companies Ordinance. Since then, when the colony was under British rule, the system of business registration and regulation has evolved towards simplifying processes and creating favorable conditions for attracting foreign investors. After the transfer of sovereignty to China in 1997, Hong Kong retained its independent economic and legal system under the “One Country, Two Systems” principle. This allowed it to maintain its status as an international business hub. According to the provisions of the Business Registration Ordinance (Chapter 310) (“BRO”), all individuals engaging in business activities in Hong Kong are required to register their business with the Business Registration Office of the Inland Revenue Department, except for exempted businesses. In Hong Kong, the term “business” encompasses any activity aimed at earning profit, including trade, commerce, craftsmanship, profession, or clubs. According to the Companies Ordinance (Chapter 622), every local or foreign company registered in Hong Kong, as well as open-ended fund companies and limited partnership funds registered or re-domiciled in Hong Kong, are considered to be conducting business and must be registered under the Business Registration Ordinance (BRO). This also applies to foreign corporations with a representative office or office in Hong Kong or leasing property in Hong Kong. To register a business in Hong Kong, companies must comply with the requirements of several key legislative acts: Business Registration Ordinance (BRO) – regulates the process of business registration and the issuance of the BRC. According to the BRO, every business entity in Hong Kong must register within 30 days of commencing operations. Companies Ordinance (CO) – …

How to Close a Company in Hong Kong: A Complete Guide
type: item
creator: ignisio
date: 2025-03-20T22:57:31Z
subject: Registration, liquidation of companies
subject: Blog
description: In this article, we will provide a detailed explanation of how the company deregistration process works in Hong Kong, the stages and requirements that need to be followed, and offer practical advice for successfully completing the process.
encoded: Running a business in Hong Kong offers numerous advantages, such as low taxes, a stable legal system, and the opportunity to operate in international markets. However, business processes do not always develop as planned, and sometimes circumstances arise where a company decides to cease its operations. Closing a company is not always a negative event. Often, it is simply a natural stage in the life of a business. When a company ceases its operations and no longer requires a legal form, one of the simplest and most cost-effective ways to end its existence is through the deregistration process. In this article, we will provide a detailed explanation of how the company deregistration process works in Hong Kong, the stages and requirements that need to be followed, and offer practical advice for successfully completing the process. When to Choose Deregistration? Deregistration of a company is one way to close a business in Hong Kong. This procedure is suitable for companies that are no longer engaged in commercial activities and have no outstanding obligations. For example, if a business was created for a single project and after its completion, the need for the company has ceased, deregistration would be the most logical step. This process is also suitable for holding companies that no longer own assets or for companies that were registered but never commenced their commercial activities. Deregistration is beneficial for several reasons: It does not require the appointment of a liquidator. It does not require compliance with the debt distribution process. It has relatively low costs for closing a business. It has clearly defined conditions and procedures, ensuring a high predictability of the final outcome. It is a relatively quick process for closing a business. <img loading="lazy" decoding="async" width="470" height="1024" src="https://www.vitaliberta.hk/wp-content/uploads/2025/03/1.-Deregistration-of-a-Company-in-Hong-Kong_-A-Brief-Overview-470x1024.webp" alt="Dereg…

Temporary freezing of a company in Hong Kong: How to minimize maintenance costs.
type: item
creator: ignisio
date: 2025-03-19T21:24:40Z
subject: Blog
subject: Legal aspects
description: In this article, we will explore how to transition a company to "dormant" status, what costs can be reduced through such a "transition," and highlight important legal aspects that need to be considered.
encoded: Conducting business in Hong Kong offers numerous advantages: favorable tax policies, transparent legislation, and a stable economic environment. However, there are times when a company may temporarily suspend its active operations. In such cases, fully liquidating the business might seem excessive, especially if there are plans to resume activities in the future. For these situations, Hong Kong legislation provides a solution— registering as a “dormant company” (dormant status). This status allows for a significant reduction in business maintenance costs and the avoidance of certain mandatory requirements while preserving the legal entity. In this article, we will explore how to transition a company to “dormant” status, what costs can be reduced through such a “transition,” and highlight important legal aspects that need to be considered. “Dormant” Company: Definition and Responsibilities According to Section 5 of the Hong Kong Companies Ordinance, private companies can apply for “dormant” status. A “dormant” company in Hong Kong refers to a registered private company that has temporarily suspended its operations and does not conduct any accounting transactions, except for the minimally necessary ones. This tool can be beneficial for companies planning to resume operations in the future but wishing to avoid the expenses associated with full business operations during the downtime. What expenses can be reduced by transitioning a company to “dormant” status? Filing of Annual Return: For active companies, this is a mandatory procedure, but a dormant company is not required to submit this report. Mandatory Audit: An audit of financial statements is not required, saving significant funds, especially for companies with a large volume of transactions. Annual General Meeting of Shareholders: The company no longer needs to hold meetings to review business performance, which also reduces operational costs. <img loading="lazy" decoding="async" width="1014" height="1024" src="h…

How to Conduct a Share Issuance in Hong Kong: A Comprehensive Guide for Companies
type: item
creator: ignisio
date: 2025-03-06T15:46:20Z
subject: Blog
subject: Legal aspects
description: In the business world, Hong Kong is recognized as a hub for international companies due to its favorable tax regime and legal system. However, as a company grows and requires more capital for expansion, the question arises: how to effectively raise additional funds? Issuing shares is one of the best ways to attract capital to finance the company's growth.
encoded: In the business world, Hong Kong is recognized as a hub for international companies due to its favorable tax regime and legal system. However, as a company grows and requires more capital for expansion, the question arises: how to effectively raise additional funds? Issuing shares is one of the best ways to attract capital to finance the company’s growth. When establishing a private limited company in Hong Kong, a shareholder can independently determine the number of shares that will be considered as the company’s share capital. According to the Hong Kong Companies Ordinance (Cap. 622), such a company is required to have at least one share with a nominal value of 1 Hong Kong dollar. A private limited company can expand its number of shareholders to 50 people. This allows the company to attract additional capital by issuing new shares to new shareholders, increasing their total number. This process is called share issuance (issuing new shares). <img loading="lazy" decoding="async" width="1024" height="497" src="https://www.vitaliberta.hk/wp-content/uploads/2025/03/1.-According-to-the-Hong-Kong-Companies-Ordinance-Cap.-622-a-private-limited-company-is-required-to-have-at-least-one-share-with-a-nominal-value-of-1-Hong-Kong-dolla-1024x497.webp" alt="According to the Hong Kong Companies Ordinance (Cap. 622)" class="wp-image-13536" srcset="https://www.vitaliberta.hk/wp-content/uploads/2025/03/1.-According-to-the-Hong-Kong-Companies-Ordinance-Cap.-622-a-private-limited-company-is-required-to-have-at-least-one-share-with-a-nominal-value-of-1-Hong-Kong-dolla-1024x497.webp 1024w, https://www.vitaliberta.hk/wp-content/uploads/2025/03/1.-According-to-the-Hong-Kong-Companies-Ordinance-Cap.-622-a-private-limited-company-is-required-to-have-at-least-one-share-with-a-nominal-value-of-1-Hong-Kong-dolla-300x146.webp 300w, https://www.vitaliberta.hk/wp-content/uploads/2025/03/1.-According-to-the-Hong-Kong-Companies-Ordinance-Cap.-622-a-private-limited-company-is-required-to-have-at-le…

Apostille of Company Documents in Hong Kong: A Complete Guide
type: item
creator: ignisio
date: 2025-03-05T08:51:16Z
subject: Blog
subject: Legal aspects
description: Conducting international business requires knowledge of various legal intricacies, especially when it comes to handling documents. One such tool is the apostille—a certification that verifies the authenticity of a document for use abroad. In 1961, the Hague Convention established the apostille to simplify the legalization process.
encoded: Conducting international business requires knowledge of various legal intricacies, especially when it comes to handling documents. One such tool is the apostille—a certification that verifies the authenticity of a document for use abroad. In 1961, the Hague Convention established the apostille to simplify the legalization process. For businesses operating or planning to operate outside their jurisdiction, the apostille plays a crucial role. It certifies that company documents, such as certificates of incorporation, articles of association, or corporate agreements, are recognized as valid abroad. Hong Kong, as one of the leading international business jurisdictions, is also a participant in the Hague Convention. This means that apostilled documents issued in Hong Kong are accepted in most countries worldwide, significantly simplifying international document exchange. This article will explore what an apostille is, which documents are subject to apostille, and the apostille process. <img loading="lazy" decoding="async" width="1024" height="610" src="https://www.vitaliberta.hk/wp-content/uploads/2025/03/1.-An-apostille-1024x610.webp" alt="An apostille" class="wp-image-13576" srcset="https://www.vitaliberta.hk/wp-content/uploads/2025/03/1.-An-apostille-1024x610.webp 1024w, https://www.vitaliberta.hk/wp-content/uploads/2025/03/1.-An-apostille-300x179.webp 300w, https://www.vitaliberta.hk/wp-content/uploads/2025/03/1.-An-apostille-768x458.webp 768w, https://www.vitaliberta.hk/wp-content/uploads/2025/03/1.-An-apostille-250x150.webp 250w, https://www.vitaliberta.hk/wp-content/uploads/2025/03/1.-An-apostille.webp 1363w" sizes="auto, (max-width: 1024px) 100vw, 1024px" /> An apostille The Hague Apostille Convention The apostille is accepted in countries that are parties to the Hague Convention. It is important to ensure that the country where the documents are intended to be used is a participant in the Convention. Countries that are parties to the Hague Apostille Convention (…

Key Requirements for Keeping Primary Documents in Hong Kong (Record keeping): A Comprehensive Guide for Businesses
type: item
creator: ignisio
date: 2024-12-31T02:36:04Z
subject: Blog
subject: Accounting and audit
description: In this article, we will explore the key document retention requirements faced by companies in Hong Kong. Our experts have prepared practical recommendations for improving document management systems, which will help not only comply with legal requirements but also optimize business management.
encoded: Proper management and storage of a company’s primary documents in Hong Kong is not only a legal obligation but also the foundation for sustainable and successful business operations. In today’s world, data is everything, and for businesses, accurate and transparent documentation is of utmost importance. Hong Kong, with its developed business environment, offers vast opportunities for companies but also requires strict compliance with reporting norms and regulations. Failure to meet these requirements can lead to serious financial and legal consequences. In this article, we will explore the key document retention requirements faced by companies in Hong Kong. Our experts have prepared practical recommendations for improving document management systems, which will help not only comply with legal requirements but also optimize business management. Necessity of Keeping Business Primary Documents in Hong Kong Keeping primary documents is not just a legal obligation but also a business management foundation that helps: Control the validity or legality of the company’s cash flow. Prevent business risks associated with lack of information or its inaccessibility. Keeping primary documents helps a company legally operate in the Hong Kong SAR and creates a healthy approach to business management and its “history.” This “history” may be required for submission to tax authorities, banks, investors, auditors, and internal control. Hong Kong tax legislation, specifically the Inland Revenue Ordinance (IRO), requires all companies to keep primary documentation of company activities in English or Chinese. These documents must be available for inspection at any time within 7 years from the date of the transaction. Failure to comply with this requirement may result in a fine of up to 100,000 HKD. <img loading="lazy" decoding="async" width="1024" height="711" src="https://www.vitaliberta.hk/wp-content/uploads/2024/12/1.-Responsibility-for-Non-Compliance-with-Primary-Documentation-Retenti…