What is a Hong Kong Certificate of Good Standing and Why Does it Matter?
In Hong Kong, the Certificate of Good Standing, also referred to as the Certificate of Continuing Registration (CCR), is an official document issued by the Companies Registry. It verifies a company’s legal existence and confirms that it is continuously registered with the Registrar of Companies. This certificate serves as proof that the company is not in the process of dissolution and has complied with its obligations under the Companies Ordinance. Recognised by both local and international authorities, the certificate is widely accepted as reliable evidence of a company’s active and legitimate status.
What Are the Key Characteristics and Purpose of the Certificate of Good Standing?
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Official Confirmation of Company’s Status
The Certificate of Good Standing (or Certificate of Continuing Registration) serves as official evidence that a company is “live” and actively recorded in the Companies Registry. It confirms that the company has not been dissolved, struck off, or placed into liquidation. In other words, it is proof that the business is legally existing and in compliance with statutory requirements.
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Issued by the Companies Registry
The certificate is an authoritative document granted and endorsed by an official from the Hong Kong Companies Registry. This ensures its authenticity and legal standing, making it a credible document for both domestic and international use.
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Applicable to Local and Foreign Companies
Both Hong Kong-incorporated limited companies and non-Hong Kong companies registered under the Companies Ordinance can obtain this certificate. This makes it a versatile document for businesses operating locally or maintaining a presence in Hong Kong as part of their global structure.
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International Recognition and Acceptance
The certificate is widely recognised by government authorities, financial institutions, banks, investors, and regulatory bodies worldwide. It is often required in cross-border transactions, setting up foreign branches, or opening bank accounts overseas, as it provides assurance of a company’s valid existence and compliance.
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Not a Substitute for Other Documents
While important, the Certificate of Good Standing/CCR is not a replacement for other statutory documents such as the Certificate of Incorporation or Business Registration Certificate. Each serves a different purpose — incorporation documents establish a company’s creation, while the Good Standing certificate verifies its ongoing compliance and active status.
What Information Does the Certificate Contain?
The Certificate of Good Standing / Certificate of Continuing Registration typically includes:
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Registered Company Name
The full legal name of the company as recorded with the Companies Registry.
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Date of Incorporation or Registration
The exact date the company was incorporated (for local entities) or registered (for foreign entities) in Hong Kong.
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Registrar’s Declaration
A formal statement from the Registrar of Companies confirming that, as of the certificate’s issue date, the company remains on the official Register of Companies and continues to maintain its legal standing.
How Do I Apply for It?
Applications can be made online under the Registry’s Cyber Search Centre. Alternatively, applications can be made in person at the Registry’s office. The office is located at 66 Queensway, Hong Kong.
If you apply online, you can opt to collect your certificate in person at the centre or have it delivered to you. If you applied on-site, then you would need to collect it in person.
Your certificate will generally be ready for collection within 6 hours of the time of application. If you choose to have it delivered to you, it will be dispatched within 6 hours of your order. This is only applicable to working days.
When Do You Need a Certificate of Good Standing?
While not every company needs to obtain this certificate regularly, there are specific business situations where it becomes essential:
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Opening Overseas Bank Accounts
International banks often require a Certificate of Good Standing to confirm your company’s legal existence and good compliance history.
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Expanding into Foreign Markets
If you plan to register a branch or subsidiary abroad, many jurisdictions require this certificate as part of the legalisation package.
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Corporate Transactions
During mergers, acquisitions, or joint ventures, counterparties will want to verify your company’s standing before signing agreements.
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Government Tenders & Licensing
Specific industries or contracts require a Certificate of Good Standing to ensure that the bidding entity is active and in compliance.
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Investor Confidence
Investors, partners, and stakeholders often ask for this certificate as part of their due diligence before committing funds.
Need Some Help?
If you’re a start-up, 3E Accounting can help you apply for your certificates with the Company Registry. 3E Accounting can help you buy the certificate for your company at a fee of HK$500. For more information about our Hong Kong company incorporation-related services, contact our team today.
