Change of Company Name in Hong Kong: A How-to guide

A change of company name in Hong Kong refers to the formal process of amending a company’s registered name under Section 107 of the Companies Ordinance and updating the corresponding Business Registration Certificate with the Inland Revenue Department. Businesses may undertake the change for various reasons, including rebranding, legal compliance, mergers and acquisitions, or business expansion.

While the process may appear straightforward, it requires strict adherence to statutory procedures and timely notification to regulatory bodies. Failure to comply may lead to potential delays or penalties.

Let’s look into this guide for a comprehensive overview of the procedure, outlining every stage from legal documentation to post-approval updates.

Reasons to change your company name

Deciding to change a company name is a significant step that reflects both strategic intent and legal responsibility. In Hong Kong, the motivations often fall into two main categories: business and branding strategy, and legal or administrative compliance.

Strategic and branding considerations

Repositioning or expanding into new markets

As businesses grow, their original name may no longer reflect the scope of their operations or resonate with target audiences abroad. A new name can convey renewed purpose, align with international standards, and appeal to investors and consumers across markets. For example, Hong Kong-based firms expanding into Mainland China or Southeast Asia often adopt names that emphasize global reach or sector expertise.

Aligning with mergers, acquisitions, or partnerships

When two or more entities merge or form an alliance, adopting a unified name creates consistency across operations and branding. This change can establish a single corporate identity, foster stakeholder trust, and prevent confusion among clients and regulators. It also allows the newly formed structure to communicate its collective value more effectively.

Modernizing a legacy name

Companies with long histories may decide to refresh outdated or restrictive names to project a more innovative image. Modernization supports rebranding initiatives, helps capture younger audiences, and positions the business competitively within fast-evolving industries such as fintech, logistics, and digital services.

Although these motivations are primarily strategic, each change requires updates across multiple domains, including legal documentation, website domains, licenses, contracts, and communications with clients, suppliers, and regulators.

Legal and administrative triggers

Trademark infringement or name-use disputes

Registering a company name in Hong Kong does not automatically grant trademark rights. A business may be compelled to change its name if it infringes on a registered mark or closely resembles another entity’s name. The Intellectual Property Department (IPD) encourages companies to perform thorough searches before registration to prevent potential legal disputes.

Regulatory restrictions or compliance issues

The Companies Registry prohibits names that suggest a connection with the HKSAR Government, include offensive or misleading terms, or conflict with public interest. Applications that violate these restrictions will be rejected, and existing companies may be directed to rename themselves.

Conflicts with existing entities

Under Section 108 of the Companies Ordinance (Cap. 622), if the Registrar determines that a company’s name is too similar to another existing company name that it may cause confusion or mislead the public, it can issue a notice requiring the company to change it within 12 months.

Understanding why to change a business name involves both balancing business objectives with statutory obligations. By evaluating both aspects carefully, companies in Hong Kong can implement a name change that enhances their market position while ensuring full compliance with the Companies Ordinance and related regulatory requirements.

Step-by-step guide to change company name in Hong Kong 

The process of changing a company name in Hong Kong follows specific provisions under the Companies Ordinance (Cap. 622). Below is a detailed walkthrough of the official procedure, from selecting a new name to updating your business registration and records.

Step 1: Choosing a new company name

Begin by selecting a name that reflects your business direction and complies with the naming standards set by the Companies Registry (CR). Before committing, conduct a name availability search through the CR’s Cyber Search Centre or Company Search Mobile Service to verify that no identical or confusingly similar names exist.

Under the Ordinance, certain words are prohibited. Names that imply government connection, contain indecent language, or contravene public interest will be rejected. The chosen name must be unique and clearly distinguishable from others on record.

Companies may register both English and Chinese names, but these are treated as separate entries. An English name must end with “Limited,” while a Chinese version should conclude with “有限公司.” Both can appear on incorporation documents and official filings.

Step 2: Passing a special resolution

Once the proposed name is selected, it must be approved through a special resolution in accordance with Section 107 of the Companies Ordinance. The formal decision requires at least 75% shareholder approval, either during a general meeting or by written resolution.

The resolution must clearly state the company’s intention to adopt the new name, recorded accurately in meeting minutes, and certified by the company secretary. A copy of the signed resolution will later accompany the filing to the Companies Registry.

Step 3: Filing Form NNC2 to the Companies Registry

After approval, the next step is to file Form NNC2 – Notice of Change of Company Name with the Companies Registry which serves as the official notification of the name amendment. The form can be filed online via the e-Registry portal or in person at the CR’s Queensway office.

As of the latest fee schedule, electronic submission costs HKD 295, while paper filing costs HKD 425. Payments can be made by credit card or PPS online, and by cheque for hard copy submissions.

The filing package should include:

• Duly completed and signed Form NNC2
• A certified copy of the special resolution
• A short cover letter (if submitted on paper)

Processing typically takes around five working days. Once approved, the Registry issues a Certificate of Change of Name, confirming the amendment.

Step 4: Receiving the certificate of change of name Hong Kong

The Certificate of Change of Name is the official document verifying that the company’s new name has been accepted. It replaces the original Certificate of Incorporation but retains the same registration number and incorporation date.

The name becomes legally effective on the date stated on the certificate, not on the day the special resolution was passed. Depending on your submission method, the certificate can be obtained digitally through the e-Registry or as a printed copy from the CR counter.

It is the permanent proof of the change and should be kept in the company’s statutory records for future reference.

Step 5: Update Business Registration Certificate

Once the new name has taken effect, the company must notify the Inland Revenue Department (IRD) within one month to update its Business Registration Certificate (BRC). A written request, along with a copy of the Certificate of Change of Name, must be submitted to the Business Registration Office, and the relevant fee paid.

The IRD will then issue an updated certificate reflecting the new name, which must be displayed at the registered office and used for all transactions. For more details, please visit BBCIncorp’s dedicated guide on the BR certificate to understand the renewal process and compliance requirements.

Step 6: Notify third parties and update records

After completing all legal filings, you must inform external and internal stakeholders of the new name. Timely communication will maintain trust and prevent confusion in business dealings.

Make sure to notify the following stakeholders:

• Financial institutions, including banks and credit providers
• Major suppliers, clients, and partners
• Insurers, auditors, and licensing authorities

Internally, revise materials and systems to align with the new name, including:

• Company seals, chops, and signage
• Letterheads, invoices, and legal agreements
• Websites, email domains, and digital profiles
• Employee records and internal databases

What to update after your company name is changed?

After a change of company name in Hong Kong is approved and the Certificate of Change of Name is issued, businesses must complete several follow-up updates to remain compliant and operationally consistent.

Updates with government bodies

The first step is to update the Inland Revenue Department (IRD). Within one month of the name change taking effect, companies must notify the Business Registration Office to update the Business Registration Certificate. The request can be submitted in person or by mail and should include a copy of the Certificate of Change of Name along with the relevant fee.

If the company holds business licences or operates in a regulated sector such as finance, education, or healthcare, the responsible authorities must also be informed.

Employers should also update records with the Mandatory Provident Fund (MPF) trustees to ensure contributions continue to be processed under the correct company name.

Update business records and operations

Beyond government notifications, the company should review and revise all materials that display its name including company letterheads, invoices, business cards, signage, and website content. Consistency across every platform reinforces credibility and avoids confusion for clients and partners.

Banks, insurers, suppliers, and professional advisors should be informed promptly so that all financial and operational transactions proceed smoothly. Written notices or announcements foster clear communication with stakeholders and employees about the effective date of the change.

In addition, all legal and financial documentation such as audit reports, employment contracts, and data protection statements should be updated to reflect the new name. Maintaining accurate records is part of good governance and supports regulatory compliance.

Completing the necessary updates after a company name change safeguards compliance with Hong Kong authorities and strengthens the company’s professional image. Visit BBCIncorp’s article on a guide to keeping business records to learn more about bookkeeping tips.

Common mistakes and how to avoid them

Changing a company name in Hong Kong involves multiple legal and administrative steps. While the procedure is well-defined, many companies face obstacles that could have been prevented with proper preparation. Recognising these pitfalls early helps avoid rejections, processing delays, and compliance risks.

Common errors businesses face when changing company name

Name rejection and processing delays

A frequent issue occurs when the Companies Registry (CR) rejects a proposed name. Under section 100 of the Companies Ordinance (Cap. 622), a name cannot be identical or too similar to an existing one, imply a link with the government or public authority, or include offensive or misleading words. The CR may also direct a company to change its name if it is later found to conflict with another registered entity.

To prevent rejection, businesses should conduct a name availability search through the Cyber Search Centre or the CR’s Company Search Mobile Service before filing. The CR’s Guideline on Registration of Company Names for Hong Kong Companies also outlines restricted terms that require prior approval. Consulting a professional service provider can further confirm that the proposed name aligns with local regulations and market expectations.

Incomplete post-change updates

Another common mistake arises after receiving the Certificate of Change of Name. Companies sometimes overlook updating their details with the Inland Revenue Department (IRD) and other government bodies. According to the IRD, businesses must apply for an updated Business Registration Certificate within one month of the name change.

Beyond compliance, it is equally important to reflect the new name across all operational records, as inconsistent records can confuse clients, suppliers, and regulators, affecting business credibility.

Practical ways to stay compliant

A structured process helps companies avoid changing company name mistakes.

• Check name availability on the CR’s online platforms before submitting documents
• Review naming restrictions under Cap. 622 and related guidelines
• Maintain a checklist of all agencies, banks, and partners to notify
• Seek professional assistance to verify that every essential document is updated.

How BBCIncorp support the change of Hong Kong company name

Managing a change of company name in Hong Kong can be time-consuming without the right expertise. BBCIncorp streamlines the entire process, combining local experience with modern digital tools to keep your business fully compliant.

With extensive experience in Hong Kong corporate services, BBCIncorp handles everything from name search to document submission:

• Complete service coverage: From checking name availability to submitting filings with the Companies Registry and Inland Revenue Department
• Instant name search tool: Verify your new name using BBCIncorp’s Hong Kong company name check tool to avoid rejection
• Expert assistance: A professional company secretary in Hong Kong oversees compliance and ensures all documents meet statutory standards
• Smooth compliance updates: Timely coordination with government offices for the updated Business Registration Certificate and related records

Additional advantages include:

• Faster and more accurate filings through digital submission systems
• Dedicated support from an experienced name change filing agent
• Secure online portal for tracking progress and managing updates
• Access to complementary services like compliance monitoring and business registration

Whether opening a new company, rebranding, restructuring, or expanding, BBCIncorp helps you complete the name change accurately and without disruption. Explore more through our Hong Kong company formation services or contact BBCIncorp today for consultation.

Conclusion

A well-planned change of company name in Hong Kong does more than meet legal requirements. It can signal growth, renewal, and a stronger market identity. Yet, each step must align with the Companies Ordinance and business registration in Hong Kong procedures to safeguard compliance and reputation. Keeping your records accurate and reviewing them regularly reflects good governance and forward-thinking leadership, crucial qualities for any thriving enterprise.

For those seeking expert guidance on expanding or managing their LLC, reach out to service@bbcincorp.com. BBCIncorp stands ready to deliver end-to-end support in company formation, name change, compliance, and any essential services you may need.

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