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 | New Zealand |
|---|---|---|
Onshore · Private Company LimitedUS$1,968Year 1 all-inStart in Hong Kong+ Hong Kong audit from US$1,611 a year, quoted separately | Onshore · Limited CompanyCurrent price available on requestCurrent price available on requestGet a quote for New Zealand | |
| Cost | ||
| Year 1 all-in | Hong KongUS$1,968✓ Lowest | New ZealandCurrent price available on request |
| From year 2 | Hong KongUS$1,308+ Hong Kong audit from US$1,611 a year | New ZealandCurrent price available on request |
| 3-year cost (Starter) | Hong KongUS$4,584+ Hong Kong audit from US$1,611 a year | New ZealandCurrent price available on request |
| Tax & reporting | ||
| Headline tax | Hong Kong8.25% / 16.5% | New Zealand28% |
| Annual audit | Hong KongYes | New ZealandIf large |
| Public register | Hong KongDirectors and shareholders public; SCR not public | New ZealandPublic |
| Setup | ||
| Type | Hong KongOnshore | New ZealandOnshore |
| Entity | Hong KongPrivate Company Limited | New ZealandLimited Company |
| Minimum directors | Hong Kong1 | New Zealand1 local* |
| Legal system | Hong KongCommon | New ZealandCommon |
| Time to form | Hong Kong1–2 days | New Zealand1–3 days |
| Best for | Hong KongTrade with China & Asia, territorial tax | New ZealandReputable Pacific base |
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.