Compare jurisdictions side by side
See 2 or 3 jurisdictions side by side: all-in cost for year 1 and year 2, headline tax, audit, registers and time to form. Hong Kong is a good fit for trade with China & Asia, territorial tax. Singapore is a good fit for Asia HQ, investors, treaties with around 100 jurisdictions. British Virgin Islands is a good fit for holding, JV, investment vehicle.
| Comparing2 jurisdictions |  Hong Kong |  United Kingdom |
|---|---|---|
Onshore · Private Company LimitedUS$1,799Year 1 all-inStart in Hong Kong+ Hong Kong audit from US$1,611 a year, quoted separately | ||
| Cost | ||
| Year 1 all-in | Hong KongUS$1,799 | United KingdomUS$1,099✓ Lowest |
| From year 2 | Hong KongUS$1,308+ Hong Kong audit from US$1,611 a year | United KingdomUS$1,129 |
| 3-year cost (Starter) | Hong KongUS$4,299+ Hong Kong audit from US$1,611 a year | United KingdomUS$3,299 |
| Tax & reporting | ||
| Headline tax | Hong Kong8.25% / 16.5% | United Kingdom19% / 25% |
| Annual audit | Hong KongYes | United KingdomIf not small |
| Public register | Hong KongDirectors and shareholders public; SCR not public | United KingdomPublic |
| Setup | ||
| Type | Hong KongOnshore | United KingdomOnshore |
| Entity | Hong KongPrivate Company Limited | United KingdomPrivate Limited (Ltd) |
| Minimum directors | Hong Kong1 | United Kingdom1 |
| Legal system | Hong KongCommon | United KingdomCommon |
| Time to form | Hong Kong1–2 business days | United Kingdom1–2 business days |
| Best for | Hong KongTrade with China & Asia, territorial tax | United KingdomUK and international trading, low running cost |
Ask about this comparison
AI answers from OCC’s published jurisdiction facts · no sign-up
Which one for your situation
You need a business bank account soon
Hong Kong or Singapore. Banks usually find onshore companies easier to assess, but each bank decides.
You want a lower running cost
British Virgin Islands, from US$1,795 a year based on published year-2 prices.
You only hold shares or other assets
British Virgin Islands. Your home country may still tax the income, so check that first (confirm with your specialist).
You need it fast
Hong Kong, typically 1–2 business days after KYC approval.
General guidance based on headline rules, not tax or legal advice. Your specialist confirms how tax residency, substance and banking apply to you before you pay.