Hong Kong Company Name Check: Rules & Search Guide

Choosing the right company name is one of the most important first steps when setting up a business in Hong Kong. A company name is not only a branding decision, but also a legal and compliance matter governed by the Companies Ordinance and enforced by the Companies Registry. An unsuitable or non-compliant name can lead to rejection, delays, and unnecessary costs, as a fresh application may be required. Beyond registration, the chosen name affects how customers, banks, and business partners perceive your company, and it can have long-term implications for contracts, marketing, and regulatory filings. This guide is written for local founders, overseas entrepreneurs, and foreign companies planning to establish a presence in Hong Kong. In this blog, we explain the key rules, restrictions, and practical considerations you should understand before selecting and submitting a company name, so you can move forward with confidence and avoid common pitfalls.

Legal Framework for Company Names in Hong Kong

Role of the Hong Kong Companies Ordinance

Company naming in Hong Kong is governed by the Companies Ordinance, which sets out clear statutory rules on what names may or may not be registered. Under this legal framework, a proposed company name must be unique, properly formatted, and not misleading, offensive, or contrary to the public interest. The Ordinance also regulates language usage, requiring companies to register names in English, Chinese, or both, while prohibiting the mixing of English letters and Chinese characters in a single name. For non-Hong Kong companies establishing a place of business locally, the Ordinance further prescribes how domestic and corporate names must be translated and registered within the statutory timeframe.

Authority of the Companies Registry and the Registrar

The Hong Kong Companies Registry is the government authority responsible for administering company name registration, while the Registrar of Companies exercises discretion in approving or rejecting proposed names. Even if a name appears available during a search, the Registrar may still object if it implies a connection with the Hong Kong government, incorporates restricted words, closely resembles an existing name, or could constitute a criminal offence. In certain situations, prior approval from the Registrar is required, particularly where a name suggests government affiliation or includes words regulated under specific subsidiary legislation. The Registrar also has ongoing powers to direct a company to change its name if it is later found to be misleading or too similar to another registered name.

Difference Between Name Availability and Formal Approval

A common misunderstanding among founders is assuming that name availability equals approval. Conducting a company name search through the Companies Registry helps identify obvious conflicts, but it does not guarantee acceptance. Formal approval only occurs when the incorporation or name change is successfully processed and the relevant certificate is issued by the Companies Registry. Until that point, a proposed name remains subject to review and potential objection. Understanding this distinction is essential to avoid delays, rejections, and additional costs during the incorporation process.

Importance of Choosing the Right Company Name

Choosing the right company name is a key step in Hong Kong company incorporation. It affects how your business is perceived, how smoothly your application is approved, and how your company operates in the long term.

First Impression and Brand Positioning

Your company name is often the first thing customers, banks, and business partners see. A clear and professional name builds credibility and supports strong brand positioning in Hong Kong’s competitive market. Names that are confusing, misleading, or too similar to existing companies can damage trust and weaken your brand from the start.

Impact on Incorporation Approval Timelines

A non-compliant company name is a common reason for application rejection. Names that breach statutory rules or fail uniqueness checks will be rejected by the Companies Registry, causing delays and extra administrative work. A properly checked and compliant name helps ensure faster approval.

Long-Term Implications for Banking, Contracts, and Compliance

Your registered company name appears on bank accounts, contracts, invoices, and statutory filings. Changing it later requires shareholder approval and formal filings, which take time and cost money. Choosing the right name at incorporation helps avoid future disruptions and supports smooth compliance.

Who Needs To Comply with Hong Kong Company Name Rules

Hong Kong company name rules apply not only at incorporation, but also throughout a company’s lifecycle. Understanding who must comply helps avoid rejection, delays, and mandatory name changes.

Local Hong Kong Incorporated Companies

All companies incorporated in Hong Kong must follow the Companies Ordinance when selecting and using a company name. This includes private companies limited by shares and other local entities.

Key requirements include:

• The name must be unique and not identical or too similar to existing registered names
  
• English and Chinese names cannot be mixed
  
• English names must end with “Limited,” while Chinese names must end with “有限公司”
  
• Names must not imply government affiliation, be misleading, or contravene public interest

Failure to comply may result in rejection at incorporation or a compulsory name change after registration.

Non-Hong Kong (Foreign) Companies Establishing a Place of Business

Companies incorporated outside Hong Kong that set up a place of business locally must register as a non-Hong Kong company within one month.

They must ensure that:

• The registered corporate name matches the overseas domestic name or its certified translation
  
• English or Chinese translations comply with Hong Kong naming standards
  
• Latin characters and Chinese characters are not mixed in the same name

If the domestic name is not in English or Chinese, a certified translation is required.

Ongoing Obligations After Registration

Company name compliance continues after registration.

Businesses must:

• Use the registered company name consistently on legal documents, contracts, and statutory filings
  
• Seek approval and file the required forms if a name change is needed
  
• Change the name if directed by the Companies Registry due to similarity, misleading use, or regulatory concerns

Ongoing compliance helps protect your brand, reduce legal risk, and maintain good standing with the Companies Registry.

Hong Kong Company Name Format Requirements

Hong Kong company names must comply with statutory rules set out under the Companies Ordinance. These standards are strictly applied by the Companies Registry to ensure clarity, transparency, and fair use of names in the public register. Non-compliant names may be rejected at incorporation or required to be changed later.

In general, an acceptable company name must be unique, properly structured, and expressed in an approved language format.

1. Language Options for Company Names

Companies incorporated in Hong Kong may choose from the following naming options:

• English name only: The name must be written entirely in English and end with the word “Limited”.
  
• Chinese name only: The name must be written entirely in traditional Chinese characters and end with “有限公司”.
  
• Bilingual registration: A company may register both an English name and a Chinese name. These are treated as two separate names, not a combined or translated version of each other.

Each name must independently meet all statutory requirements.

2. Prohibited Language Combinations

Hong Kong does not allow company names that mix English letters with Chinese characters in a single name. This restriction applies to all local and non-Hong Kong companies.

Why mixing is not allowed

• It creates ambiguity in official records
  
• It complicates public searches and legal identification
  
• It increases the risk of name similarity disputes

Common mistakes by first-time applicants

• Inserting English brand terms into a Chinese name
  
• Adding Chinese characters after an English word
  
• Assuming bilingual registration means a mixed-language name

These errors often lead to application rejection and delays.

3. “Limited” Naming Requirements

All limited companies in Hong Kong must clearly indicate their limited liability status.

• English company names must end with the full word “Limited”
  
• Chinese company names must end with “有限公司”
  
• Abbreviations such as “Ltd” are not accepted

The use of the full term is mandatory and non-negotiable. Names that use shortened forms will not be approved by the Companies Registry.

4. Chinese Company Name Technical Rules

Chinese company names are subject to additional technical standards.

Key requirements include:

• Chinese names must be written in Traditional Chinese characters supported by the Companies Registry’s system.
  
• Characters must be recognised under the Kangxi Dictionary or Cihai
  
• Avoid simplified or non-standard characters. Names containing unsupported or uncommon characters may be rejected, even if they appear readable.

Simplified Chinese characters are not accepted under Hong Kong law. Using unrecognised or non-standard characters may result in rejection, even if the name appears readable.

Company Name Availability and Uniqueness

Before incorporation, every proposed company name must meet the uniqueness requirement enforced by the Hong Kong Companies Registry. Names that fail this test are commonly rejected, causing delays and additional costs.

Requirement for Uniqueness under the Companies Registry

A company name must not be the same as, or too similar to, an existing name already on the Registrar of Companies’ Index of Names. This rule applies to:

• Companies that are currently registered
  
• Companies in the process of registration
  
• Names previously directed by the Registrar to be changed
  

A name search should always be conducted through the Companies Registry Cyber Search Centre before submission.

Identical and “Too Similar” Names 

A name may be rejected even if it is not exactly identical.

Identical names

• Same wording in the same language
  
• Same Chinese characters or same English spelling

“Too similar” names

• Minor differences such as adding “The”, “Company”, or “Group”
  
• Use of symbols like “&” instead of “and”
  
• Inclusion of words such as “HK”, “Hong Kong”, or “Far East”
  
• Changes only in punctuation or spacing

These differences are generally ignored by the Registrar when assessing similarity.

Risks of Name Rejection and Objection

If a proposed name is rejected:

• A new incorporation application may be required
  
• Government fees already paid are not refunded
  
• Business timelines may be disrupted

Even after registration, a company may be ordered to change its name if:

• It is later found to be misleading
  
• It causes confusion with another registered company
  
• A court order or formal objection is raised

Choosing a distinctive and compliant name from the outset is the most effective way to avoid these risks and ensure a smooth registration process.

Restricted and Prohibited Company Names in Hong Kong

Not every company name is acceptable under Hong Kong law. The Companies Registry has clear authority to reject names that are misleading, sensitive, or contrary to public interest. Choosing a restricted or prohibited name is one of the most common reasons for rejection and re-submission.

Names Implying Government or Public Authority Connections

A company name must not give the impression that it is connected with, endorsed by, or affiliated with the Hong Kong Government, the Central People’s Government, or any public body, unless such a relationship genuinely exists and prior approval is obtained.

Commonly restricted words and expressions include:

• “Government” (政府)
  
• “Department” (部門)
  
• “Bureau” (局)
  
• “Authority” (管理局／委員會)
  
• “Council” (議會)
  
• “Commission” (公署)

If a proposed name suggests official status without justification, the Registrar will refuse registration. In practice, approval is rarely granted for private commercial entities.

Misleading, Offensive, or Criminally Sensitive Wording

The Registrar may reject a company name if, in their opinion, it:

• Misleads the public about the nature, scope, or legality of the company’s activities
  
• Is offensive, obscene, or socially inappropriate
  
• Suggests or promotes illegal or criminal conduct

For example, names implying regulated activities such as banking, trust services, or financial supervision may be rejected if the company is not properly licensed. Certain words are also restricted under the Companies (Words and Expressions in Company Names) Order and may trigger mandatory name changes even after incorporation.

Names Contrary to Public Interest

A company name may also be refused if it is considered contrary to public interest. This is a broad discretionary power and can apply where a name:

• Causes public confusion
  
• Creates reputational or regulatory risk
  
• Is likely to lead to disputes or objections

Even after registration, the Registrar has the power to direct a company to change its name if it later becomes problematic. Non-compliance with such directions may result in penalties.

Tip for Founders

If a name contains sensitive wording, branding claims, or industry-specific terms, it should be reviewed carefully before submission. Conducting a proper name search and compliance check in advance helps reduce rejection risk and avoids unnecessary delays during incorporation. Professional company secretarial support is especially valuable where naming issues are borderline or complex, ensuring compliance from the outset.

Read: How To Search For A Company in Hong Kong: Step-by-Step Guide

How to Conduct a Hong Kong Company Name Search

Conducting a company name search is a critical step before submitting incorporation documents in Hong Kong. It helps founders identify potential conflicts early, reduce rejection risk, and avoid delays caused by re-filing. While a name search does not guarantee approval, it is the first practical filter for compliance with the Companies Ordinance.

It is also important to distinguish between a preliminary availability check and final approval. A name may appear available in a public search, but the Registrar still retains discretion to reject it at the incorporation stage.

Why a Name Search Is Essential Before Incorporation

A proper name search allows you to:

• Confirm that the proposed name is not already registered or reserved
• Identify names that are identical or too similar to existing companies
• Avoid names that may trigger objections due to wording, structure, or public interest concerns

Skipping this step often results in rejected applications, wasted government fees, and lost time.

Difference Between Preliminary Checks and Final Approval

A name search only shows whether a matching record exists in the public database. Final approval is granted only when the Companies Registry reviews the incorporation documents and raises no objections. Availability does not equal acceptance.

1. Using the Companies Registry Name Search

Accessing Public Search Services

The Hong Kong Companies Registry provides free public search tools through its Cyber Search Centre and mobile search services. These platforms allow founders and advisors to perform basic name availability checks before incorporation.

No account is required for a standard name search, making it accessible for both local and overseas applicants.

Searching by Full Company Name

For best results, searches should be conducted using the full proposed company name, including “Limited” or “有限公司” where applicable. Partial searches may not reveal similar or conflicting names that could still lead to rejection. Ensure to prepare several alternative names in case the first choice is unavailable or problematic.

2. Understanding Name Search Results

“Still Registered”

If the search result shows “Still Registered,” the name is already in use or reserved. This name cannot be registered again, even if the existing company is dormant.

“No Matching Records”

“No Matching Records” indicates that there is no identical name currently registered. This suggests availability but does not confirm approval.

Similar Names and Potential Objections

Even where no exact match appears, the Registrar may reject a name that is considered too similar to an existing one. Minor differences such as adding “The,” “Company,” or symbols like “&” are usually disregarded when assessing similarity.

3. Limitations of Online Name Searches

Public Information Versus Registrar Discretion

Online searches rely on public records only. They do not assess whether a name is misleading, offensive, restricted, or contrary to public interest. These judgments are made by the Registrar during the incorporation review.

Why Availability Does Not Guarantee Approval

A name may still be rejected if it:

• Implies government or public authority affiliation
• Misrepresents the nature of business activities
• Falls within restricted wording under applicable regulations

For this reason, a name search should always be combined with a compliance review. Professional company secretarial support helps identify hidden risks early and improves the likelihood of first-time approval.

Read: Guide To Check Your Hong Kong Company Name

Company Name Requirements for Non-Hong Kong Companies

A non-Hong Kong company refers to a company incorporated outside Hong Kong that establishes a place of business locally. Once it has a physical presence or conducts business in Hong Kong, it must register with the Companies Registry as a non-Hong Kong company.

Registration deadline after establishing a Hong Kong presence

A non-Hong Kong company must complete its registration with the Companies Registry within one month after establishing a place of business in Hong Kong. Missing this statutory deadline may result in penalties and compliance issues, so early preparation of the company name and documents is essential.

Translation and certification requirements for overseas company names

The registered name of a non-Hong Kong company is based on its domestic name in its place of incorporation. If the domestic name is not in English or Chinese, the company must provide a certified translation in English, Chinese, or both. The translation must accurately reflect the original legal name and be formally certified. English and Chinese characters cannot be mixed within a single company name, and all registered names remain subject to the Companies Registry’s general rules on uniqueness and acceptability.

Registrar Approval and Name Registration Process

Is Registrar approval required for company naming?

In most cases, a Hong Kong company name does not require pre-approval before submission. However, the Companies Registry will review every proposed name during incorporation. Registrar approval becomes necessary if the name suggests a connection with the Hong Kong Government or any public authority, includes restricted words under the Companies (Words and Expressions in Company Names) Order, or may mislead the public about the company’s activities. Names that are offensive, contrary to public interest, or too similar to existing registered names will be rejected.

When a company name is considered officially approved

A company name is only regarded as approved once the Companies Registry has completed its review and raised no objections. A successful name search alone does not guarantee acceptance. Official approval is confirmed only after the incorporation application is processed and accepted by the Registrar.

Issuance of the Certificate of Incorporation

Once the company name and incorporation documents meet all statutory requirements, the Companies Registry will issue the Certificate of Incorporation. This certificate serves as formal evidence that the company is legally registered in Hong Kong and that its name has been officially approved and recorded in the Companies Register.

Common Reasons Company Names Are Rejected

Choosing a company name that fails to meet the Companies Registry’s requirements can result in rejection, delays, and additional costs. Below are the most common reasons Hong Kong company names are not approved.

1. Identical or Confusingly Similar Names

A proposed company name must be clearly distinguishable from names that are already registered or in the process of registration. Names that are identical or considered too similar will be rejected, even if minor variations are added. The Companies Registry does not treat the following as meaningful differences:

• Adding words such as “Company” or “Group”
• Using the definite article “The” at the beginning
• Including symbols such as “&” or commonly used abbreviations

To reduce rejection risk, a full name search should always be conducted through the Companies Registry before submission.

2. Non-Compliant Language or Format

Company names must comply strictly with statutory naming rules. Common formatting issues include:

• Mixing English letters with Chinese characters in a single name
• Using “Ltd” instead of the full word “Limited” for English names
• Failing to include “有限公司” at the end of a Chinese company name
• Using simplified Chinese characters instead of traditional Chinese

Any deviation from these requirements will result in automatic rejection.

3. Sensitive or Misleading Wording

Names that suggest a connection with the Hong Kong Government, public authorities, or regulated bodies are closely scrutinised. Words such as “Government,” “Authority,” “Council,” or “Commission” generally require prior approval and are only permitted in limited circumstances.

In addition, names that are offensive, contrary to public interest, misleading about the nature of the business, or potentially criminal in nature will not be accepted. The Registrar also has the power to require a name change after incorporation if the name later becomes misleading or inappropriate.

Changing a Company Name After Incorporation

A Hong Kong company may decide to change its registered name after incorporation for commercial, legal, or strategic reasons. Common scenarios can be business rebranding, expansion into new markets, mergers, or a requirement imposed by the Companies Registry due to name similarity or misleading wording. While a name change does not affect the company’s legal identity, it does carry legal and operational implications that must be handled carefully.

From an operational perspective, a company name change requires updates across statutory records, bank accounts, contracts, licences, and business stationery. From a compliance standpoint, the process must strictly follow the Companies Ordinance to remain valid.

1. Passing a Special Resolution

To change its company name, a Hong Kong company must first obtain shareholder approval by passing a Special Resolution. This requires approval by at least 75 percent of the voting rights of shareholders entitled to vote.

The resolution should clearly state the proposed new company name and be properly documented. Accurate record keeping is essential, including:

• The signed Special Resolution
• Board and shareholder meeting records, if applicable
• Updated internal registers reflecting the name change

These records form part of the company’s statutory books and may be requested by banks, auditors, or regulators in the future.

2. Filing with the Companies Registry

After the Special Resolution is passed, the company must file a Notice of Change of Company Name with the Companies Registry within the statutory deadline of 15 days. Late filing may result in penalties and compliance issues.

Once the Registry approves the new name, it will issue a Certificate of Change of Name. The name change becomes legally effective from the date stated on this certificate, not from the resolution date.

Following approval, the company should promptly update its Business Registration Certificate, bank records, contracts, and other operational documents to reflect the new name. Proper coordination ensures business continuity and avoids confusion with counterparties or regulators.

Company Name Issues After Restoration

When a Hong Kong company is restored to the Companies Register after being struck off or dissolved, its company name may raise compliance issues that founders and directors must address promptly. Restoration does not always guarantee unrestricted use of the original name, especially where name conflicts arise during the period of dissolution.

What Happens to a Company Name After Restoration

Upon restoration, a company generally resumes its original registered name. However, during the time the company was dissolved, another entity may have registered an identical or confusingly similar name. In such cases, the restored company does not automatically gain priority over names registered during its absence.

If the Companies Registry determines that the restored name conflicts with an existing registered name or breaches naming rules, the issue must be resolved to remain compliant.

Conflicts With Newly Registered Companies

Name conflicts typically occur where:

• A new company has lawfully registered the same or a very similar name during the dissolution period
  
• The restored company’s name is considered misleading or too similar under the Index of Company Names
  
• The name creates confusion or potential disputes in the market

These conflicts can disrupt business operations, banking arrangements, and contractual relationships if not handled early.

Registrar’s Power to Require Name Changes

Under the Companies Ordinance, the Registrar has the authority to direct a restored company to change its name if it is identical or too similar to another registered company, or if it is misleading or contrary to the public interest.

The Registrar may issue a written direction specifying a timeframe for compliance. Failure to change the name within the prescribed period may result in penalties and further regulatory action.

For restored companies, conducting a fresh company name review immediately after restoration is a best practice. Professional company secretary support can help assess risks early, manage communications with the Companies Registry, and execute a compliant name change where required.

Practical Tips for Choosing a Strong Company Name

1. Balance legal compliance and branding

A strong Hong Kong company name must meet Companies Registry requirements while remaining clear and marketable. Choose either an English or Chinese name, not a mix. Ensure the correct suffix is used “Limited” for English names or “有限公司” for Chinese names and avoid words that may require prior approval or cause rejection.

2. Plan for future expansion and reputation

Select a name that can grow with your business. Avoid overly narrow terms tied to a single product, location, or short-term trend. A flexible and professional name supports future business expansion, overseas operations, and long-term brand credibility.

3. Avoid unnecessary restrictions or red flags

Do not use names that suggest government affiliation, regulated activities, or misleading business scopes unless properly authorised. Steer clear of names that are identical or highly similar to existing companies, as this can lead to forced name changes, disputes, and rebranding costs after incorporation.

Role of Professional Company Secretary Support

Reducing name rejection and compliance risks

A professional company secretary helps ensure your proposed company name meets all Companies Registry requirements before submission. This includes checking language rules, mandatory suffixes, similarity risks, and restricted words. Early screening reduces the chance of rejection, saving time, costs, and repeat filing delays.

Handling complex name cases and objections

Some company names involve higher risk, such as names similar to existing companies, foreign company names, regulated terms, or words requiring Registrar approval. An experienced company secretary can assess these risks in advance, advise on alternatives, and manage communications if objections are raised by the Companies Registry.

Support beyond name search and incorporation

Professional support does not stop at name approval. A licensed company secretary assists with incorporation filings, statutory records, ongoing compliance, and future name changes if required. This end-to-end support helps businesses remain compliant as they grow, restructure, or expand into new markets.

Conclusion

Choosing the right Hong Kong company name is a critical first step that affects registration approval, brand credibility, and long-term operations. A compliant name must follow strict language rules, avoid similarity with existing companies, and meet Companies Registry requirements from day one. Conducting a proper company name search, understanding restricted words, and planning for future branding and domain use help reduce rejection risks and costly changes later. Early compliance sets a strong foundation for smooth incorporation and sustainable business growth in Hong Kong.

How FastLane Group Can Help

FastLane Group supports entrepreneurs and SMEs at every stage of the Hong Kong incorporation process. Our licensed company secretary team conducts thorough company name checks, advises on compliance risks, and manages incorporation filings efficiently. Contact our team today to start your Hong Kong company.

Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)

1. Is a Hong Kong company name search free?
Yes. The Companies Registry provides free online company name searches through its Cyber Search Centre. Professional agencies may charge service fees if they conduct checks on your behalf.

2. Can name availability change after a search?
Yes. A name shown as available can be taken by another applicant at any time before incorporation is submitted and approved.

3. How long is a company name reserved?
Hong Kong generally does not operate a formal name-reservation system. A name is effectively secured only when incorporation or a name change is successfully approved.

4. Can two companies have similar names?
No. Names that are identical or considered too similar to existing registered companies will be rejected by the Companies Registry.