Hong Kong Company Special License Application

General Partnership (GP) Setup & Licensing

A General Partnership (GP) is a business structure with two or more partners who share unlimited liability for the debts of the business. This structure is commonly used for investment management, consulting services, and professional firms. Additionally, if a GP engages in regulated activities, it must also obtain the necessary licenses from the managing authorities as well.

Key Requirements

• At least two partners (can be individuals or corporations).
• Partners must have a strong commercial reputation and relevant industry experience.
• A registered address in Hong Kong is required.
• No mandatory minimum capital, but sufficient operating funds must be demonstrated.

Streamlined Application Process & Documents

Step 1: Prepare incorporation documents:

• Partnership Agreement to establish the GP structure.
• Company Name Approval Notice.
• Proof of Registered Address (e.g., tenancy agreement).
• Identity Proof for all partners (e.g., passports, corporate registration certificates).
• Business Registration Application Form (IRBR1).

Step 2: Submit the application to the Hong Kong Companies Registry (CR)

Step 3: Apply for specific licenses

If your business involves regulated activities (e.g., fund management, securities trading), apply for the corresponding SFC license.

Limited Partnership (LP) Setup & Licensing

A Limited Partnership (LP) consists of at least one General Partner (GP) with unlimited liability and one or more Limited Partners (LPs) whose liability is limited to their investment amount. This structure is widely used in private equity funds, investment funds, and venture capital.

Key Requirements

• At least one General Partner (GP) and one Limited Partner (LP).
• GPs can be individuals or corporations; LPs can be individuals or institutions.
• A registered address in Hong Kong is required.
• No minimum capital requirement, but proof of funding is necessary.

Streamlined Application Process & Documents

Step 1: Prepare incorporation documents:

• Standard company registration documents (address proof, name approval, etc.).
• Limited Partnership Agreement.
• Identity proof for all GPs and LPs.
• Business plan and source of funds description.

Step 2: Submit the application to the Hong Kong Companies Registry (CR)

SFC License for Financial Firms

The Securities and Futures Commission (SFC) issues licenses to companies engaged in regulated financial activities in Hong Kong. This includes activities such as securities trading, futures trading, and asset management. Depending on the services offered, your business may need to apply for one or multiple license types, such as Type 1 (securities trading), Type 4 (advising on securities), or Type 9 (asset management).

Key Requirements

• The company must be incorporated in Hong Kong.
• Minimum paid-up capital (generally HKD 5 million or higher).
• Senior management and directors must have relevant experience in the financial industry.
• A robust Anti-Money Laundering (AML) and Know Your Client (KYC) policy must be established.

Streamlined Application Process & Documents

Step 1: After incorporation, prepare the following application materials:

• Detailed business plan outlining the scope of financial services.
• Financial statements and proof of funding sources.
• AML and KYC policy documents.
• Background information and CVs of senior management, demonstrating industry expertise.
• Compliance manual and risk management plan (if required).

Step 2: Submit the application to the Securities and Futures Commission (SFC) for review and approval.

Precious Metals Trading License

A Precious Metals Trading License is a broad term encompassing two distinct regulatory tracks in Hong Kong, based entirely on the business model:

• Track 1: Physical Dealing (DPMS License): Required for companies involved in the physical trading or sale of gold, silver, platinum, gemstones, jade, and other precious metals/stones. Regulatory oversight for AML/CTF compliance falls under the Hong Kong Customs and Excise Department (C&ED).
• Track 2: Financial/Derivatives Trading: Required if the business involves futures, leveraged transactions, or investment advisory services related to precious metals. Regulatory oversight is managed by the Securities and Futures Commission (SFC).

The requirements detailed below primarily focus on the highly specific demands of the C&ED (Customs) Precious Metals and Stones Dealer License (DPMS), which covers the sale and physical exchange of gold and other precious items.

Key Requirements

Streamlined Application Process & Documents

Step 1: Prepare incorporation documents:

• Identity documents (Passport, HKID) and detailed resumes of all Directors, focusing on industry experience.
• Latest financial statements and bank statements showing proof of operating funds and clear funding sources.
• Comprehensive AML/KYC policy documents and formal appointment letters for the Compliance and AML Reporting Officers.
• Detailed business plan, trading model description, and screenshots of all operational websites/stores.
• Mandatory Address & Premises Proof: Stamped HK Tenancy Agreement, Land Registry record, and the landlord's written consent for using the premises for precious metals dealing.
• Mandatory Transaction Proof (C&ED DPMS): Three complete sets of verifiable sales and purchase contracts (total value not exceeding HKD 120,000 per set), paired with corresponding bank remittance slips and customs declaration documents.

Step 2: Submit the application to the Hong Kong Companies Registry (CR)

Telecommunications License (OFCA License)

A Telecommunications License is issued by the Office of the Communications Authority (OFCA), allowing companies to provide telecommunications services. This includes services such as internet access, mobile communications (including MVNO), data center services, and international telephony services.

Key Requirements

• The company must be incorporated in Hong Kong.
• Ownership or lease of relevant telecommunications facilities and technology.
• The network architecture and technical plans must meet regulatory standards.
• Sufficient capital to support operations is required.

Streamlined Application Process & Documents

Step 1: Prepare incorporation documents:

• Certificate of Incorporation (CI) and Business Registration Certificate (BR).
• Technical solution and network infrastructure diagram.
• Network security and data protection plan.
• Business plan and financial proof.
• Service agreements (e.g., network leasing contracts).

Step 2: Submit the application to OFCA for review and approval.