When starting a business in Hong Kong, choosing a unique and memorable company name is crucial. But how do you check if your desired company name is already registered and complies with the Hong Kong Companies Ordinance? In this article, NOVA provides a detailed guide on conducting a company name search in Hong Kong, ensuring your chosen name meets all requirements and passes the registration process smoothly.
Hong Kong Company Name Format Requirements
Your company name is the face of your business, representing its image and influencing customer perceptions. Therefore, selecting a memorable and distinctive name is essential. The general requirements for a Hong Kong company name are as follows:
- A company can register either a Chinese name, an English name, or both.
- The name cannot combine English words/letters with Chinese characters.
- If registering an English name, it must end with “Limited.”
- If registering a Chinese name, it must end with “有限公司” (Limited Company).
- Chinese names must use traditional Chinese characters; simplified Chinese is not accepted.
- Chinese names must be found in the Kangxi Dictionary or Cihai, as well as comply with the ISO10646 international coding standard.
For detailed rules and restrictions, refer to the Hong Kong Companies Registry website.
Non-Hong Kong Company Name Format Requirements
Companies registered outside Hong Kong must apply to the Companies Registry to register as a “non-Hong Kong company” within one month of establishing a place of business in Hong Kong. The company’s domestic name (used in its home country) must be translated into English or Chinese (or both), and the translation must be certified.
Company Name Search Process
To avoid duplicating or using a name too similar to an existing company, follow these steps to conduct a company name search before registration:
- Visit the Companies Registry website and select “Services for Non-Account Holders.”
- Click “Search” and enter your personal details, search purpose, and verification code.
- Select “Search by Full Name” and enter your proposed company name to begin the search.
- Check the results:
- If the result shows “Still Registered,” the name is already taken and cannot be used.
- If the result shows “No Matching Records,” the name is available for use.
Changing and Restoring a Company Name
Steps to Change a Company Name
- Pass a Special Resolution:
Hold an extraordinary general meeting (EGM) and pass a special resolution with more than 50% of shareholders voting in favor to change the company name. - Submit a Notification to the Companies Registry:
Within 15 days of passing the resolution, submit Form NNC2 (“Notice of Change of Company Name”) to the Companies Registry. - Wait for Approval:
The Companies Registry will review the form and the new company name. If all legal requirements are met, a new Certificate of Incorporation will be issued.
Company Name After Restoration
If a company is restored after dissolution, it typically retains its original registered name. Within 12 months of restoration, if another company registers a similar or identical name, the Companies Registry will require the new company to change its name in writing.
NOVA’s company registration services provide the best solutions for entrepreneurs looking to quickly establish a business in Hong Kong. Managed by a professional licensed team, we can complete all required procedures for incorporating your limited company in as fast as one day.
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)
What is the Cost of a Company Name Search?
The online company name search service provided by the Hong Kong Companies Registry is free. However, if you hire a professional agency to conduct the search, you will need to pay for their services.
