Updating your company name in Hong Kong is a straightforward process, but it must be done correctly to comply with legal requirements.
This guide will help you understand the steps and requirements involved.
Why you need to update your company info
It's important to keep your company details up-to-date. It’s a legal requirement and also helps maintain a professional image.
Company info includes your company name, registered office address, or director information.
Any changes should be reported to the Companies Registry (CR) within 15 days.
Steps to Change Your Company Name
1. Choose a New Name
Select a name that matches your brand and business activities. Make sure it follows the Companies Registry’s naming guidelines (details below).
2. Pass a Special Resolution
Get approval from at least 75% of the shareholders for the name change. This approval must be documented in a special resolution. Your company secretary can help draft this document.
3. Submit Form NNC2
Fill out and submit Form NNC2 (Notice of Change of Company Name) within 15 days of passing the special resolution. Submit it online, in person, or by post to the Companies Registry at:
Companies Registry,
14th Floor, Queensway Government Offices,
66 Queensway, Hong Kong
The filing fee is HK$295. For non-Hong Kong companies, the fee is HK$1,425. If mailing, use a cheque instead of cash.
4. Await Approval
Once approved, the Companies Registry will issue a Certificate of Change of Name, confirming your company's new name. This can be digital or physical, depending on how you submitted the form. If the application is rejected, the filing fee is non-refundable.
What are the Naming Guidelines for Hong Kong Companies
When choosing a new name, keep these guidelines in mind:
Language and Format: Use English only, Chinese only, or both, but don’t mix them in one name.
Terminology: English names must end with "Limited"; Chinese names must end with "有限公司."
Character Usage: Use traditional Chinese characters (繁體字) as found in the Kang Xi Dictionary (康熙字典) or Ci Hai Dictionary (辭海) and comply with the ISO 10646 coding standard. Simplified Chinese characters are not allowed.
Frequently Asked Questions
Q: What if the new name is similar to an existing company name?
The Companies Registry may reject it to avoid confusion. Check the name's availability in the CR database before applying.
Q: Are there exceptions to the 15-day reporting rule?
No, timely reporting is crucial for compliance.
How blynq can help
Changing your company name is simple but needs to be done right. Our company secretary team at blynq can help with the paperwork and ensure everything is compliant.
We can also provide advice to make sure your new name reflects your brand and business goals.
Contact us for more information about our company secretarial services. Let us handle the details so you can focus on growing your business.