A company name search is a crucial first step in setting up a company, because if the name has already been registered as a limited company, you cannot use it to incorporate another company.
From 27 December 2023, the Companies Registry has launched the new ICRIS website, which consolidates functions such as e-Registry and Company Search into CR e-services. General Accounting is the first to share a CR e-services tutorial, guiding you step by step on how to conduct a limited company name search on the new Companies Registry website.
Key Points on Limited Company Names
Under the Companies Ordinance, the Companies Registry imposes restrictions on limited company names. Click here for details to refer to the Hong Kong Company Name Guidelines issued by the Companies Registry. Before incorporating, entrepreneurs may also refer to another article by General Accounting: Limited Company Incorporation Process for details on Hong Kong limited company name requirements and restrictions.
Company Name Search Process
Step 1: Go to the new Companies Registry website CR e-services. If you have not registered a CR e-services login account, please select the services for users without an account.
Summary:
Entrepreneurs should note that even if you have conducted a limited company name search on the new Companies Registry website (CR e-services), it does not mean the name is 100% guaranteed to be registrable.
As the general public may not fully understand the Hong Kong company name search guidelines, it is recommended that entrepreneurs consult a professional company secretary in advance to confirm whether the proposed company name is suitable for registration as a limited company in Hong Kong, so as to avoid registration failure due to name issues, additional costs, and delays in incorporation.
