Last updated: September 2026
Choosing the right company formation and business services provider in Hong Kong can significantly impact your startup's success. Two prominent players serving entrepreneurs in the region are Osome and Air Corporate. While both offer company incorporation services, they take fundamentally different approaches to helping businesses get started and grow.
This comprehensive comparison will help you understand the key differences between Osome and Air Corporate, analyze their pricing structures, evaluate their service offerings, and determine which provider best fits your specific business needs. Whether you're a digital nomad launching your first Hong Kong company, an SME expanding into Asia, or an established business seeking a new corporate services partner, this guide covers everything you need to make an informed decision.
Quick Comparison Table
| Feature | Air Corporate | Osome |
|---|---|---|
| Founded | 2014 | 2017 |
| Headquarters | Hong Kong | Singapore |
| Primary Market Focus | Hong Kong specialist | Multi-market (SG, HK, UK) |
| Companies Incorporated | 10,000+ | Not publicly disclosed |
| Bank Accounts Opened | 9,000+ | Not publicly disclosed |
| Trustpilot Rating | 4.9/5 (137+ reviews) | 4.6/5 |
| Licensing | Own TCSP Licence (TC008778) | Licensed |
| Basic Incorporation Price | From $90 USD | From $349 USD |
| All-Inclusive Package | $1,070 USD | ~$1,500+ USD |
| Company Secretary | $955/year | Varies by package |
| Banking Partners | 8+ major banks | Limited partnerships |
| Service Approach | Personal service with dedicated managers | Tech-first, AI-powered platform |
| Ideal For | Hands-on guidance, HK specialists | Tech-savvy founders, multi-market needs |
Company Overview: Air Corporate
Background and History
Air Corporate was established in 2014, making it one of Hong Kong's most experienced company formation specialists with over a decade of expertise in the market. Headquartered in Hong Kong, the company has built its reputation on deep local knowledge, regulatory expertise, and personalized client service.
Over the years, Air Corporate has successfully incorporated more than 10,000 companies and facilitated the opening of over 9,000 corporate bank accounts — a remarkable track record that demonstrates both capability and client trust. Their focus has remained consistently on the Hong Kong market, allowing them to develop unparalleled expertise in local regulations, banking relationships, and business practices.
Licensing and Compliance
One of Air Corporate's strongest differentiators is their own Trust or Company Service Provider (TCSP) Licence (TC008778). This is not a white-label arrangement through another provider — Air Corporate holds their license directly from the Hong Kong Companies Registry. This means:
- Direct accountability and regulatory oversight
- No intermediary layers in your corporate structure
- Full compliance with Hong Kong's Anti-Money Laundering Ordinance
- Clear chain of responsibility for all corporate services
Track Record and Reputation
Air Corporate maintains an exceptional 4.9 out of 5 rating on Trustpilot from over 137 reviews. Client testimonials frequently highlight:
- Responsive and knowledgeable staff
- Clear communication throughout the incorporation process
- Successful bank account openings (often a pain point with other providers)
- Ongoing support beyond initial company formation
Banking Partnerships
Air Corporate has cultivated relationships with eight major banking partners, including:
- Traditional Banks: HSBC, Hang Seng, DBS, OCBC
- Digital Banking Solutions: Airwallex, Payoneer, Aspire, Wise
This diverse banking network is crucial because Hong Kong bank account opening has become increasingly challenging. Air Corporate's established relationships and track record significantly improve clients' chances of successful account opening.
Company Overview: Osome
Background and Approach
Osome was founded in 2017 in Singapore and has grown into a tech-forward corporate services platform serving multiple markets including Singapore, Hong Kong, and the United Kingdom. The company has positioned itself as an AI-powered business administration platform, emphasizing automation and self-service capabilities.
Technology Focus
Osome's primary differentiator is its technology-first approach. The platform offers:
- AI-powered accounting software
- Automated bookkeeping and expense categorization
- Real-time financial dashboards
- Integration with popular business tools
- Mobile app for on-the-go business management
This approach appeals to tech-savvy entrepreneurs who prefer digital-first solutions and are comfortable with self-service platforms.
Multi-Market Presence
Unlike Air Corporate's Hong Kong specialization, Osome operates across multiple jurisdictions:
- Singapore (Primary market and headquarters)
- Hong Kong (Secondary market)
- United Kingdom (Expansion market)
This multi-market presence can be advantageous for businesses planning to establish entities in multiple jurisdictions. However, it also means Osome's attention and expertise is divided across markets rather than concentrated on Hong Kong specifically.
Content and Resources
Osome has invested heavily in content marketing, maintaining over 240 FAQ pages and extensive educational resources. Their content covers business formation, accounting, taxation, and compliance topics across their operating markets. This content strategy has helped them build strong organic search visibility and establish thought leadership.
Service Model
Osome's service model leans toward platform-based delivery:
- Self-service portal for many tasks
- AI-assisted responses for common questions
- Human support for complex issues
- Subscription-based pricing for ongoing services
Pricing Comparison
Air Corporate Pricing Structure
Air Corporate offers transparent, clearly tiered pricing designed for different business needs:
Basic Package — $90 USD
The entry-level option includes:
- Company incorporation
- Government fees
- Certificate of Incorporation
- Business Registration Certificate
- Company documents preparation
Best for: Entrepreneurs who want minimal costs and will handle most administrative tasks themselves.
All-Inclusive Package — $1,070 USD
The most popular choice includes everything in Basic, plus:
- Company Secretary (first year)
- Registered Office Address
- Bank account opening assistance
- Compliance calendar management
- Basic accounting setup guidance
Best for: First-time Hong Kong business owners who want a complete, worry-free setup.
Expert Package — $1,405 USD
Premium service includes everything in All-Inclusive, plus:
- Priority processing
- Enhanced bank account opening support with multiple bank introductions
- Dedicated account manager
- Extended consultation time
- Business strategy consultation
Best for: Complex structures, time-sensitive incorporations, or clients who want VIP service.
Ongoing Services
- Company Secretary: $955/year (standalone)
- Registered Office: Included in packages or available separately
- Annual compliance services: Competitive rates
Osome Pricing Structure
Osome's pricing tends to be higher, reflecting their technology platform investment:
Basic Incorporation — Starting from $349 USD
Includes:
- Company registration
- Government fees
- Basic documentation
Complete Packages — $1,000-$2,000+ USD
Varies based on included services:
- Company secretary
- Virtual office
- Accounting software access
- Bookkeeping services
Accounting Services — Monthly subscription
- Basic bookkeeping: From $150+/month
- Full accounting services: From $300+/month
- Tax preparation: Additional fees
Note: Osome's pricing often bundles their accounting software, which may add value if you need accounting tools but represents unnecessary cost if you already have accounting solutions.
Price Analysis
When comparing similar service levels:
| Service Level | Air Corporate | Osome | Difference |
|---|---|---|---|
| Basic incorporation | $90 | $349 | Air Corporate saves $259 |
| All-inclusive formation | $1,070 | ~$1,500 | Air Corporate saves ~$430 |
| Annual Company Secretary | $955 | ~$1,000-1,200 | Comparable |
| Total First Year (All-inclusive) | ~$2,025 | ~$2,700+ | Air Corporate saves $675+ |
Bottom line: Air Corporate offers more competitive pricing, particularly for businesses focused solely on Hong Kong operations and those who don't need built-in accounting software.
Feature Comparison
Company Incorporation Services
| Feature | Air Corporate | Osome |
|---|---|---|
| Online application | ✅ | ✅ |
| Same-day filing | ✅ | ✅ |
| Company name search | ✅ | ✅ |
| Articles of Association | ✅ | ✅ |
| Share certificate preparation | ✅ | ✅ |
| Director/shareholder flexibility | ✅ | ✅ |
| Multi-currency share capital | ✅ | ✅ |
| Complex structures (holding companies) | ✅ Specialist expertise | Limited |
Banking Services
| Feature | Air Corporate | Osome |
|---|---|---|
| Bank introduction services | ✅ 8+ partners | Limited partnerships |
| Traditional HK banks | ✅ HSBC, Hang Seng, DBS, OCBC | Some support |
| Digital banking options | ✅ Airwallex, Payoneer, Aspire, Wise | ✅ |
| Multi-bank introductions | ✅ Expert package | Limited |
| Success rate tracking | ✅ 9,000+ accounts opened | Not disclosed |
Banking insight: Opening a corporate bank account in Hong Kong is notoriously challenging. Air Corporate's documented track record of 9,000+ successful account openings and established relationships with eight banking partners provides meaningful advantage in this critical area.
Ongoing Compliance Services
| Feature | Air Corporate | Osome |
|---|---|---|
| Company Secretary | ✅ $955/year | ✅ Included in some packages |
| Annual Return filing | ✅ | ✅ |
| Business Registration renewal | ✅ | ✅ |
| Compliance calendar | ✅ | ✅ |
| Statutory register maintenance | ✅ | ✅ |
| Significant Controllers Register | ✅ | ✅ |
Accounting and Tax Services
| Feature | Air Corporate | Osome |
|---|---|---|
| Bookkeeping services | ✅ Available | ✅ Core offering |
| Accounting software | Partner recommendations | ✅ Proprietary platform |
| AI-powered categorization | N/A | ✅ |
| Tax filing assistance | ✅ | ✅ |
| Audit arrangement | ✅ | ✅ |
| Profits Tax returns | ✅ | ✅ |
Client Support
| Feature | Air Corporate | Osome |
|---|---|---|
| Dedicated account manager | ✅ Expert package | Platform-based |
| Direct phone support | ✅ | Limited |
| Email response time | Typically same-day | Varies |
| In-person meetings (HK) | ✅ Available | Limited (SG-based) |
| Native Cantonese support | ✅ | Available |
| After-hours support | Case-by-case | Chatbot |
Pros and Cons
Air Corporate
| Pros | Cons |
|---|---|
| ✅ 10+ years of Hong Kong specialization | ❌ Less tech-platform oriented |
| ✅ Own TCSP licence (TC008778) — not white-label | ❌ Hong Kong-only (no multi-jurisdiction) |
| ✅ 10,000+ companies incorporated | ❌ Accounting software not included |
| ✅ 9,000+ bank accounts opened | ❌ Smaller marketing presence |
| ✅ 8 major banking partners | |
| ✅ 4.9/5 Trustpilot rating | |
| ✅ More competitive pricing | |
| ✅ Personal service approach | |
| ✅ Strong bank account opening success |
Osome
| Pros | Cons |
|---|---|
| ✅ AI-powered accounting platform | ❌ Higher pricing |
| ✅ Multi-market presence (SG, HK, UK) | ❌ Less HK specialization |
| ✅ Modern user interface | ❌ Platform-first, less personal service |
| ✅ Extensive content/resources (240+ FAQs) | ❌ Singapore-headquartered |
| ✅ Good for tech-savvy users | ❌ Fewer banking partnerships |
| ✅ Integrated bookkeeping tools | ❌ Bank opening track record not disclosed |
| ❌ May charge for software you don't need |
Who Should Choose Air Corporate
Ideal Client Profiles
1. Hong Kong-Focused Entrepreneurs If your business will operate primarily in or through Hong Kong, Air Corporate's decade-plus of local expertise provides valuable advantages. Their deep understanding of Hong Kong's regulatory environment, banking relationships, and business practices means fewer surprises and smoother operations.
2. Those Prioritizing Bank Account Opening With over 9,000 successful corporate bank account openings and relationships with eight major banks, Air Corporate offers significant advantages if banking access is a priority. Their track record and banking partnerships can mean the difference between a quick account opening and months of frustration.
3. First-Time Company Founders If you're incorporating your first company, Air Corporate's personal service approach provides the guidance and hand-holding that can prevent costly mistakes. Having a knowledgeable team available by phone rather than navigating a self-service platform reduces stress and ensures proper setup.
4. Budget-Conscious Businesses Air Corporate's pricing is more competitive, particularly for basic incorporation and annual company secretary services. If you don't need integrated accounting software (perhaps you already have accounting solutions), you avoid paying for bundled services you won't use.
5. Complex Corporate Structures For holding companies, multi-entity structures, or businesses with complex shareholder arrangements, Air Corporate's specialist expertise and personal service model provides the customized guidance these situations require.
6. Those Valuing Regulatory Independence Air Corporate's own TCSP licence means direct regulatory accountability rather than operating through another provider's licence. For businesses where corporate governance and clear chains of responsibility matter, this independence provides additional assurance.
Who Should Choose Osome
Ideal Client Profiles
1. Multi-Jurisdiction Businesses If you plan to establish companies in Singapore, Hong Kong, and the UK, Osome's multi-market presence means you can work with one provider across jurisdictions. This can simplify vendor management for international operations.
2. Tech-First Founders Entrepreneurs comfortable with self-service platforms and AI-powered tools may appreciate Osome's modern interface and automated systems. If you prefer digital dashboards over phone calls, Osome's approach may feel more natural.
3. Accounting Software Seekers If you're looking for company formation bundled with accounting software, Osome's integrated platform provides both in one package. This can be efficient if you don't already have accounting solutions in place.
4. Content and Resource Users Osome's extensive FAQ library (240+ pages) and educational content can be valuable for entrepreneurs who prefer researching and learning independently before engaging with support.
5. Singapore-Primary Businesses Since Osome is headquartered in Singapore and that's their primary market, businesses whose main operations are in Singapore (with Hong Kong as secondary) may find Osome's Singapore expertise more relevant.
Our Verdict
For businesses focused on Hong Kong, Air Corporate emerges as the stronger choice for most entrepreneurs. Here's why:
Specialization matters. Air Corporate's exclusive focus on Hong Kong since 2014 means deeper expertise, stronger local relationships, and better understanding of the market's nuances compared to a multi-market provider.
Banking is critical. The ability to open a corporate bank account can make or break a Hong Kong company. Air Corporate's documented track record of 9,000+ successful account openings across eight banking partners provides meaningful competitive advantage.
Direct licensing provides accountability. Air Corporate's own TCSP licence (TC008778) means you're working with a directly licensed provider, not through a white-label arrangement.
Value for money. With more competitive pricing and the ability to choose only services you need, Air Corporate typically delivers better value, especially for businesses that don't require built-in accounting software.
Personal service wins. When navigating company formation, banking, and compliance, having knowledgeable humans available beats chatbots and self-service portals, particularly for first-time founders or complex situations.
Osome may be the better choice if you need multi-jurisdiction presence across Singapore, Hong Kong, and the UK, or if you specifically want integrated AI-powered accounting software as part of your corporate services package.
For most Hong Kong-focused businesses, however, Air Corporate's combination of experience, track record, banking relationships, competitive pricing, and personal service makes them the recommended choice.
Frequently Asked Questions
1. How long does it take to incorporate a Hong Kong company with Air Corporate vs Osome?
Both providers can complete Hong Kong company incorporation within 1-3 business days once all documents are submitted and approved. Air Corporate's local presence and established relationships with the Companies Registry often facilitate smooth processing. The actual timeline depends on document completeness, company structure complexity, and any Registry queries.
2. Can foreigners incorporate a Hong Kong company through either provider?
Yes, absolutely. Hong Kong allows 100% foreign ownership with no local director or shareholder requirements. Both Air Corporate and Osome can assist non-residents with incorporation. Air Corporate's extensive experience with international clients (as evidenced by their 10,000+ incorporations) means they're well-versed in the specific documentation requirements for foreign founders.
3. What's included in Air Corporate's $90 basic package vs Osome's $349 basic package?
Air Corporate's $90 basic package includes company incorporation, government fees, Certificate of Incorporation, Business Registration Certificate, and company document preparation. Osome's higher-priced basic package typically includes similar core incorporation services. The price difference reflects Air Corporate's competitive positioning and lower overhead from Hong Kong specialization vs. multi-market operations.
4. Which provider has better success rates for Hong Kong bank account opening?
Air Corporate has documented evidence of superior banking outcomes. With 9,000+ successful corporate bank account openings and partnerships with eight banks (HSBC, Hang Seng, DBS, OCBC, Airwallex, Payoneer, Aspire, Wise), their track record is verifiable. Osome does not publicly disclose their banking success metrics, making direct comparison difficult — but the absence of such data may itself be telling.
5. Do I need accounting software included with company formation?
Not necessarily. Many businesses already use accounting software like Xero, QuickBooks, or local solutions. Osome bundles their proprietary accounting platform, which adds value if you need it but represents unnecessary cost if you don't. Air Corporate's à la carte approach lets you choose only the services you need, potentially saving hundreds of dollars annually.
6. What is a TCSP licence and why does it matter that Air Corporate has their own?
A Trust or Company Service Provider (TCSP) licence is required under Hong Kong's Anti-Money Laundering Ordinance to provide company formation and corporate services. Some providers operate under another company's licence (white-label). Air Corporate holds their own licence (TC008778) directly from the Companies Registry, meaning:
- Direct regulatory accountability
- No intermediary in your corporate structure
- Clear chain of responsibility
- Full compliance independence
7. How do the Company Secretary services compare between Air Corporate and Osome?
Air Corporate charges $955/year for standalone Company Secretary services, which includes all statutory compliance requirements: maintaining registers, filing annual returns, handling correspondence with the Companies Registry, and ensuring ongoing compliance. Osome includes Company Secretary in some packages but charges separately for others, with pricing often higher when calculated annually. Both provide competent statutory company secretary services.
8. Can I switch from Osome to Air Corporate (or vice versa) after incorporation?
Yes, switching providers is possible and relatively straightforward. You can change your Company Secretary, registered office address, and service providers at any time by filing appropriate forms with the Companies Registry. Air Corporate regularly assists businesses transitioning from other providers and can guide you through the process. Typical reasons for switching include seeking better banking support, more competitive pricing, or more personalized service.
Ready to incorporate your Hong Kong company? Contact Air Corporate for a consultation and discover why 10,000+ businesses have trusted them with their Hong Kong company formation.
