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 | Bermuda | Hong Kong |
|---|---|---|
Offshore · Exempted CompanyCurrent price available on requestCurrent price available on requestGet a quote for Bermuda | Onshore · Private Company LimitedUS$1,968Year 1 all-inStart in Hong Kong+ Hong Kong audit from US$1,611 a year, quoted separately | |
| Cost | ||
| Year 1 all-in | BermudaCurrent price available on request | Hong KongUS$1,968✓ Lowest |
| From year 2 | BermudaCurrent price available on request | Hong KongUS$1,308+ Hong Kong audit from US$1,611 a year |
| 3-year cost (Starter) | BermudaCurrent price available on request | Hong KongUS$4,584+ Hong Kong audit from US$1,611 a year |
| Tax & reporting | ||
| Headline tax | Bermuda0% (15% large MNEs)✓ Best | Hong Kong8.25% / 16.5% |
| Annual audit | BermudaYes | Hong KongYes |
| Public register | BermudaDirectors and members open to inspection; BO not public | Hong KongDirectors and shareholders public; SCR not public |
| Setup | ||
| Type | BermudaOffshore | Hong KongOnshore |
| Entity | BermudaExempted Company | Hong KongPrivate Company Limited |
| Minimum directors | Bermuda1 | Hong Kong1 |
| Legal system | BermudaCommon | Hong KongCommon |
| Time to form | Bermuda1–2 weeks | Hong Kong1–2 days |
| Best for | BermudaInsurance and institutional | Hong KongTrade with China & Asia, territorial tax |
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.