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Under Section 474 of the Companies Ordinance(1) , every company incorporated in Hong Kong is legally required to appoint a company secretary. However, a reliable company secretary in Hong Kong does much more than fulfil a statutory requirement.

The right provider helps businesses manage Annual Return filings, maintain statutory records, support corporate governance, and avoid costly penalties resulting from missed deadlines or compliance failures.

With numerous providers offering different service levels and pricing structures, choosing the right partner can be challenging. To help you make an informed decision, this guide compares the 5 best company secretary services in Hong Kong in 2026, highlighting their key features, strengths, and ideal business use cases.

Key takeaways

  • Appointing a company secretary is a legal requirement for every Hong Kong company under the Companies Ordinance.
  • The right provider should match your business size, compliance complexity, and expansion plans.
  • Digital-first providers are often suitable for startups, while larger or cross-border businesses may need more specialised support.
  • Compare providers based on service scope, technology, expertise, and pricing transparency not just annual fees.
  • A reliable company secretary can help reduce compliance risks, avoid penalties, and support long-term business growth.

How we evaluated the company secretary Hong Kong providers

To compile this list, we assessed providers based on the factors that matter most to businesses seeking reliable corporate secretarial support:

  • TCSP licence verification: Only providers holding a valid Trust or Company Service Provider (TCSP) licence issued by the Hong Kong Companies Registry were considered.
  • Service coverage: Evaluated whether providers offer essential company secretary services, including statutory filings and compliance support.
  • Pricing transparency: Prioritised providers with clear pricing structures or a straightforward quotation process.
  • Digital capabilities: Reviewed the availability of client portals, document management systems, and compliance reminder features.
  • Customer feedback: Considered publicly available reviews and ratings from platforms such as Trustpilot and Google.
  • International support: Assessed whether providers can support overseas founders and businesses with multi-jurisdiction needs.

Best 5 company secretarial services in Hong Kong

The Hong Kong market offers a wide range of company secretary providers, from digital-first platforms for startups to corporate service firms supporting complex, multi-jurisdiction structures.

To help you narrow down the options, the table below provides an overview of the 5 best company secretary services in Hong Kong, including their ideal customer profile, starting price, and key differentiators.

ProviderBest forAnnual feePricing noteKey strengthsTCSP Licensed
BBCIncorpInternational entrepreneursHK$ 7051 (US$899/year)All-in annual package (company secretary + registered address + BRC + compliance portal).

No extra fees and no additional transfer fee for clients switching from another provider, except in cases of outstanding government fees.

All-in-one package combining company secretary, registered address, annual compliance management, digital company management portal, and multi-jurisdiction support for overseas foundersYes, TC009977
SleekStartupsFrom HK$1,300/yearThe starting fee applies to Company Secretary (1 shareholder). Rates vary by the number of shareholders. Government fees and registered address charged separately.Digital-first platform, automated compliance management, and a user-friendly dashboard with transparent pricingYes, TC006483
FastLane GroupSMEsFrom HK$3,550/yearRegistered office address billed as a separate add-on service; accounting, tax, and payroll also priced separately.Integrated accounting, tax, payroll, and company secretarial services for growing businessesYes, TC007714
BoardRoomLarge enterprisesCustom quoteBespoke pricing based on scope and complexity. Primarily suited to listed companies and large enterprises.Strong corporate governance capabilities and support for complex group structures and listed companiesYes, TC007255
AcclimeRegional businessesCustom quoteTailored pricing based on scope and jurisdiction. Best confirmed directly with Acclime.Extensive Asia-Pacific presence and cross-border corporate services for multi-entity businessesYes, TC009500
Disclaimer

Disclaimer

Data verified as of July 3, 2026. Pricing and service offerings may change over time. Please check the official websites of the respective providers for the most accurate and up-to-date information regarding their prices and services.

company secretarial services hk
Best 5 company secretarial services in Hong Kong

1. BBCIncorp

Founded in 2017, BBCIncorp is a technology-enabled corporate services provider that helps entrepreneurs establish and manage companies across 18+ jurisdictions worldwide. Since its inception, the company has supported more than 9,000 businesses with company incorporation, corporate secretarial, accounting, and compliance solutions.

Backed by a team with over 12 years of industry experience, BBCIncorp combines deep regulatory expertise with technology to deliver efficient, cross-border corporate services. Rather than operating as a traditional company secretary firm, BBCIncorp integrates professional advisory services with a proprietary digital platform.

Strengths:

  • Purpose-built for international founders: Enables non-residents to incorporate and manage Hong Kong companies remotely while navigating local compliance requirements with ease.
  • Comprehensive Hong Kong compliance support: Covers core statutory obligations, including company secretary services, maintenance of statutory records, and ongoing filing and compliance management.
  • All-in-one, multi-jurisdiction solution: Combines Hong Kong company formation, company secretary, registered address, and business support services under one provider, with capabilities extending beyond Hong Kong to other key jurisdictions.
  • Technology-enabled company administration: The dedicated BBCI Client Portal provides real-time access to company documents, automated compliance reminders, and 24/7 support through the BSmart AI assistant.
  • Transparent pricing with no hidden fees: Delivers detailed, upfront quotations covering both incorporation and ongoing compliance services, enabling businesses to plan long-term operating costs with confidence.

Considerations:

Businesses with more complex requirements, such as accounting, tax, or multi-entity management, may benefit most from leveraging BBCIncorp’s broader suite of integrated corporate services.

Best for: BBCIncorp is suitable for international entrepreneurs, foreign founders, and businesses operating across multiple jurisdictions that require a technology-driven, scalable company secretary service Hong Kong approach to company management and compliance.

2. Sleek

Sleek is a digital corporate services provider that offers company incorporation, company secretary, accounting, and tax services across several Asian markets.

The company has positioned itself as a one-stop solution for entrepreneurs seeking a fast, paperless, and technology-driven way to establish and manage businesses in Hong Kong.

Its entirely online onboarding process and integrated platform have made it particularly popular among startups and small businesses.

Strengths:

  • Fully digital experience: Enables entrepreneurs to incorporate and manage their Hong Kong companies entirely online, with no physical paperwork or in-person visits required.
  • Integrated compliance management: Provides automated tracking for key obligations, including Annual Return filings and maintenance of statutory records, helping businesses stay on top of deadlines.
  • Transparent and scalable pricing: Offers clearly defined service packages that combine company secretary, accounting, and tax services, allowing businesses to scale their support as they grow.
  • Business-friendly ecosystem: Complements company secretarial services with value-added offerings, such as business account setup and an integrated accounting platform tailored for SMEs.

Considerations:

  • Best suited for straightforward compliance needs: Startups and SMEs with standard secretarial requirements are likely to benefit most from Sleek’s platform-driven approach.
  • Complex requirements may warrant additional expertise: Businesses with sophisticated group structures or bespoke governance needs may wish to supplement the service with specialist advisory support.

Best for: Sleek is best suited for startups, SMEs, and technology-driven businesses seeking an affordable, digital-first platform to efficiently incorporate and manage their Hong Kong company.

3. FastLane Group

FastLane Group is a Hong Kong-based professional services firm specialising in company secretarial, accounting, tax, audit, and advisory services. Established in 2013, the firm has supported more than 1,000 businesses across Hong Kong and the Asia-Pacific region.

Its integrated service offering and strong accounting expertise have made it a trusted partner for SMEs seeking comprehensive business support.

Strengths:

  • Strong accounting and tax expertise: Combines company secretarial services with in-house accounting, tax, and audit capabilities, enabling businesses to manage their financial and compliance obligations under one provider.
  • Comprehensive business support ecosystem: Offers a broad range of complementary services, including company incorporation, payroll, bank account opening, and shareholder services.
  • Deep Hong Kong regulatory experience: Extensive experience supporting businesses with Annual Return filings, Significant Controllers Register (SCR) obligations, and other statutory requirements under the Companies Ordinance.
  • Dedicated account management: Provides a single point of contact to coordinate filings, corporate changes, and ongoing compliance matters.

Considerations:

  • More service-led than platform-led: Businesses prioritising advanced digital tools and self-service features may prefer providers with a stronger technology focus.
  • Customised pricing structure: Fees are generally tailored to the scope of services required, which may make direct price comparisons more challenging.

Best for: SMEs and growing businesses seeking integrated company secretary, accounting, tax, and audit support from a single professional services provider.

4. BoardRoom

With a history spanning more than 50 years, BoardRoom is one of the most established corporate services providers in Hong Kong and the Asia-Pacific region.

The firm offers a comprehensive suite of company secretarial, corporate governance, and compliance solutions, serving organisations ranging from private companies to publicly listed issuers and multinational groups.

Its extensive regional footprint and deep regulatory expertise make it particularly well-positioned to support businesses with sophisticated governance and cross-border requirements.

Strengths:

  • Extensive corporate governance expertise: Provides strategic guidance on governance frameworks, board administration, and ongoing compliance with Hong Kong’s evolving regulatory requirements.
  • Specialised support for listed companies: Offers dedicated services for listed issuers, including compliance with Hong Kong Listing Rules, corporate governance reporting, and authorised representative services.
  • Established Asia-Pacific presence: Combines local expertise with regional capabilities across multiple jurisdictions, making it well-suited for companies operating across borders.
  • Advanced compliance capabilities: Supports complex corporate actions and restructuring matters, including share transactions, changes in corporate structure, and multi-entity compliance management.

Considerations:

  • Premium service positioning: The breadth of expertise and specialised capabilities may be more than what smaller businesses with straightforward compliance needs require.
  • Enterprise-focused service model: The firm’s service offering is particularly geared towards larger organisations, regulated entities, and companies with complex governance requirements.

Best for: Large corporations, regulated entities, multinational groups, and publicly listed companies requiring sophisticated corporate governance and compliance support across Hong Kong and the Asia-Pacific region.

5. Acclime

Acclime is a corporate services and advisory firm with an extensive presence across the Asia-Pacific region, providing company secretarial, accounting, tax, payroll, and market entry services.

The firm supports businesses at various stages of growth, from startups entering new markets to multinational companies managing regional operations. Its strong cross-border capabilities and local expertise across multiple jurisdictions make it a compelling choice for businesses expanding throughout Asia.

Strengths:

  • Extensive Asia-Pacific network: Maintains a strong presence across key Asian markets, enabling businesses to access local expertise while coordinating regional operations through a single provider.
  • Comprehensive cross-border support: Combines company secretarial services with market entry, tax, accounting, and advisory capabilities to support businesses expanding into new jurisdictions.
  • Deep regional compliance expertise: Helps businesses navigate varying regulatory requirements across multiple countries, reducing the complexity of managing cross-border entities.
  • Technology-enabled administration: Offers online document management, e-signature capabilities, and proactive compliance reminders to help businesses stay on top of filing obligations and deadlines.

Considerations:

  • Designed for regional business needs: The breadth of services and cross-border capabilities may exceed the requirements of companies with purely local and straightforward compliance needs.
  • Customised pricing approach: Service fees are generally tailored to the complexity and geographic scope of each engagement rather than offered through standardised packages.

Best for: Multinational companies, regional groups, and businesses planning to establish or manage operations across multiple Asia-Pacific jurisdictions.

What to look for when choosing a company secretary service

Choosing a company secretary is not simply about fulfilling a legal requirement. The right provider can help you stay compliant, avoid costly penalties, and support your business as it grows. Before making a decision, consider the following factors.

company secretarial services
What to look for when choosing a company secretary service

Match the provider to your business size and complexity

The level of support you need depends largely on your company’s structure and growth plans.

  • Startups and newly incorporated companies: A provider that offers incorporation, company secretary, and registered office services in a bundled package is often the most cost-effective option. Digital platforms and automated reminders can also reduce administrative work for founders managing everything themselves.
  • SMEs and growing businesses: As your company expands, you may require support beyond annual filings, such as changes to directors, share allotments, shareholder updates, and tax filings. Choosing a provider that also offers accounting and tax services can simplify administration.
  • Corporate groups and holding structures: Businesses with multiple entities often need assistance with intercompany changes, corporate restructuring, and maintaining statutory records across several jurisdictions. Providers with regional capabilities and dedicated account management are typically better suited to these requirements.
  • Listed companies and regulated entities: Companies operating in regulated sectors or listed on the stock exchange require more sophisticated support, including corporate governance advice, board meeting administration, and compliance with industry-specific regulations.

Evaluate the scope of services included

Not all annual company secretary packages provide the same level of support. Some providers only cover basic statutory obligations, while others offer more comprehensive compliance management.

Before engaging a provider, confirm whether the package includes:

  • Filing of the Annual Return (Form NAR1);
  • Maintenance of the Significant Controllers Register (SCR);
  • Preparation and safekeeping of statutory registers and company records;
  • Provision of a registered office address;
  • Filing of director and company secretary changes;
  • Share allotments, share transfers, and other corporate actions;
  • Support for company restructuring or deregistration.

A lower annual fee may seem attractive initially, but additional charges for routine filings can significantly increase the total cost over time.

Assess the technology and automation capabilities

Managing compliance manually increases the risk of missed deadlines and misplaced documents. Technology-enabled providers can significantly improve efficiency and visibility.

  • Automated reminders for Annual Return and Business Registration deadlines;
  • Secure online storage of statutory records and company documents;
  • An online client portal with real-time access to filings and resolutions;
  • Electronic signature capabilities for corporate documents;
  • Centralised tracking of compliance obligations across multiple entities.

These features can be particularly valuable for overseas founders and businesses managing operations remotely.

Consider industry and cross-border expertise

Some businesses have compliance requirements that go beyond standard company secretarial services. A provider with relevant expertise may be essential if your business:

  • Operates in a regulated industry;
  • Has shareholders or directors based in different jurisdictions;
  • Manages a holding company or group structure;
  • Plans to expand into other Asia-Pacific markets;
  • Requires coordination between multiple entities and local regulations.

Providers with cross-border capabilities can help businesses navigate different regulatory frameworks and reduce the complexity of regional expansion.

Understand the pricing structure

Company secretary fees in Hong Kong vary significantly depending on the level of service and the complexity of your business. When comparing providers, look beyond the advertised annual fee and ask:

  • Is the fee fixed or subject to annual increases?
  • Which filings are included in the package?
  • Are government fees charged separately?
  • What are the fees for director changes, share transfers, or ad-hoc filings?
  • Are registered office services and SCR maintenance included?
  • Is there an additional charge for compliance reminders or document storage?

Understanding the full cost structure upfront can help avoid unexpected expenses and make it easier to compare providers on a like-for-like basis.

Ultimately, the best company secretary service is one that aligns with your business’s current needs while being capable of supporting future growth and increasingly complex compliance requirements.

In-house vs outsourced company secretary: Which is better?

There is no one-size-fits-all approach when choosing between an in-house and outsourced company secretary. The right option depends on your company’s size, governance requirements, and the complexity of its operations.

Business ProfileRecommended OptionWhy
Newly incorporated companies and early-stage startupsOutsourcedNeed a cost-effective solution for statutory compliance without hiring dedicated staff.
SMEs with straightforward operationsOutsourcedTypically have standard filing requirements and limited corporate actions.
Multi-entity or cross-border businessesOutsourced SpecialistRequire expertise in regional compliance, restructuring, and multi-jurisdiction coordination.
Listed companies and highly regulated entitiesIn-house + External SupportNeed day-to-day governance support while leveraging external specialists for technical and regulatory matters.

Outsourced company secretary

An outsourced company secretary is typically the preferred option for startups and SMEs because it provides access to experienced professionals without the costs associated with building an internal team.

Pros

  • Lower overall cost: Eliminates recruitment, training, employee benefits, and ongoing staffing expenses.
  • Access to specialised expertise: Professional firms stay up to date with changes to the Companies Ordinance, Listing Rules, and other regulatory requirements.
  • Reduced compliance risk: Established processes and compliance monitoring systems help minimise the likelihood of missed filings and penalties.
  • Scalable support: Businesses can add services such as accounting, tax, and cross-border compliance support as they grow.

Cons

  • Less direct control: Response times and service quality may vary depending on the provider and service arrangement.
  • Potential additional fees: Some ad-hoc filings or complex corporate actions may incur separate charges.
  • Limited understanding of day-to-day operations: External providers may not have the same level of familiarity with internal business processes as an in-house team.

In-House company secretary

An in-house company secretary may be more suitable for larger organisations with complex governance requirements, frequent corporate actions, or extensive stakeholder engagement.

Pros

  • Immediate access and responsiveness: Internal teams can respond quickly to board matters, corporate changes, and urgent compliance issues.
  • Stronger governance support: An in-house secretary develops a deeper understanding of the company’s structure, policies, and strategic objectives.
  • Closer coordination with management and directors: Particularly valuable for listed companies and highly regulated businesses that require frequent board and committee support.

Cons

  • Higher staffing costs: Businesses must bear the costs of salary, benefits, training, and ongoing professional development.
  • Recruitment challenges: Finding experienced company secretarial professionals with the right expertise can be difficult and time-consuming.
  • Limited expertise in niche areas: A single employee may not possess the breadth of knowledge available through a specialised corporate services firm.

Bottom line

For most startups and SMEs in Hong Kong, an outsourced company secretary offers the best balance of cost, expertise, and compliance support. However, businesses with complex governance structures, extensive regulatory obligations, or listed status may benefit from maintaining an in-house function while leveraging external specialists for technical and cross-border matters.

The best company secretarial services hong kong provider depends on your business needs. Sleek is well suited to startups, while FastLane Group caters to SMEs seeking integrated financial support. BBCIncorp and Acclime are strong choices for international and cross-border businesses, whereas BoardRoom is best suited to large corporations and listed companies.

When making your decision, look beyond price. Consider your company’s size, compliance complexity, and growth plans. The right company secretary should not only keep your business compliant today but also support its future expansion.


References:

  • (1) (2) Cap. 622 Companies Ordinance – Section 474 of the Companies Ordinance: https://www.elegislation.gov.hk/hk/cap622!en?xpid=ID_1438403545469_005

Frequently Asked Questions

Is a company secretary mandatory in Hong Kong?

Yes. Under Section 474 of the Companies Ordinance (Cap. 622)(2) , every company incorporated in Hong Kong must appoint a company secretary. The secretary can be an individual ordinarily residing in Hong Kong or a corporate body with its registered office or place of business in Hong Kong.

The company secretary is responsible for maintaining statutory records, ensuring timely filings, and helping the company meet its ongoing compliance obligations.

Can the director act as the company secretary?

It depends on the company’s structure. For a company with multiple directors, one of the directors may also act as the company secretary.

However, if the company has only one director, that individual cannot simultaneously serve as the company secretary. This restriction is intended to ensure proper corporate governance and segregation of duties.

How much does a company secretary cost in Hong Kong?

Company secretary fees in Hong Kong typically range from HK$1,000 to HK$5,000+ per year, depending on the provider and scope of services.

Basic packages generally cover annual compliance requirements, while additional services, such as share transfers, director changes, or corporate restructuring, may incur separate fees.

Can I change my company secretary later?

Yes. A company may change its company secretary at any time by appointing a new secretary and filing the relevant notification with the Companies Registry.

Most professional service providers can manage the transition process, including the preparation and filing of the required documents.

What happens if I fail to appoint a company secretary?

Failure to appoint a company secretary constitutes a breach of the Companies Ordinance and may result in penalties for both the company and its responsible officers.

In addition to legal consequences, the company may face difficulties in maintaining statutory records and meeting its ongoing filing obligations, increasing the risk of non-compliance.

Do foreign-owned companies need a company secretary?

Yes. Hong Kong imposes the same company secretary requirements on local and foreign-owned companies.

Even if all directors and shareholders are non-residents, the company must still appoint a company secretary who meets Hong Kong’s residency or local presence requirements. As a result, many overseas founders engage professional corporate service providers to fulfil this statutory role.

Disclaimer: While BBCIncorp strives to make the information on this website as timely and accurate as possible, the information itself is for reference purposes only. You should not substitute the information provided in this article for competent legal advice. Feel free to contact BBCIncorp’s customer services for advice on your specific cases.

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