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. Cayman Islands is a good fit for funds, listing vehicles, institutional holding. Hong Kong is a good fit for trade with China & Asia, territorial tax.
| Comparing2 jurisdictions |  Cayman |  Hong Kong |
|---|---|---|
Onshore · Private Company LimitedUS$1,690Year 1 all-inStart in Hong Kong+ Hong Kong audit from US$1,400 a year, quoted separately | ||
| Cost | ||
| Year 1 all-in | CaymanUS$3,990 | Hong KongUS$1,690Lowest |
| From year 2 | CaymanUS$3,490 | Hong KongUS$1,190+ Hong Kong audit from US$1,400 a year |
| 3-year cost (Starter) | CaymanUS$10,970 | Hong KongUS$4,070+ Hong Kong audit from US$1,400 a year |
| Tax & reporting | ||
| Headline tax | Cayman0% localBest | Hong Kong8.25% / 16.5% |
| Annual audit | CaymanFunds only | Hong KongYes |
| Public register | CaymanMembers and BO not public; directors list open to inspection | Hong KongDirectors and shareholders public; SCR not public |
| Setup | ||
| Type | CaymanOffshore | Hong KongOnshore |
| Entity | CaymanExempted Company | Hong KongPrivate Company Limited |
| Minimum directors | Cayman1 | Hong Kong1 |
| Legal system | CaymanCommon | Hong KongCommon |
| Time to form | Cayman3–5 business days | Hong Kong1–2 business days |
| Best for | CaymanFunds, listing vehicles, institutional holding | Hong KongTrade with China & Asia, territorial tax |
Ask about this comparison
AI answers from OCC’s published prices & facts · no sign-upWhich one for your situation
You need a business bank account soon
Hong Kong. Banks usually find onshore companies easier to assess, but each bank decides.
You want a lower running cost
Hong Kong, from US$1,190 a year based on published year-2 prices, plus Hong Kong audit from US$1,400 a year.
You only hold shares or other assets
Cayman 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.