A business registration certificate is a crucial document that legitimizes a business’s operation in Hong Kong. It represents your company’s compliance with local regulations which showcase your credibility and trustworthiness. This guide outlines the essential steps and considerations for obtaining a business registration certificate.
Content Outline
Key Takeaways
- Essential Document: The Business Registration Certificate (BRC) is crucial for any business operating in Hong Kong, serving as legal proof of registration and linking to the Tax Identification Number (TIN).
- Application Timeline: The BRC must be applied for within 30 days of business incorporation.
- Electronic Process: The application process is now fully electronic, enhancing efficiency and convenience.
- Regular Renewal: The BRC requires timely renewal to avoid penalties and maintain business legitimacy.
- Update Requirements: Any changes in business details must be reported within one month to ensure the BRC remains valid.
What is a Business Registration Certificate?
In Hong Kong, a Business Registration Certificate (BRC) is an official document issued by the Inland Revenue Department (IRD) that confirms a business’s legal presence and rights to operate within the country. This certificate is a proof of compliance with local laws and regulatory bodies that your business is legitimate and recognized by the Hong Kong government. The certificate must be clearly displayed at your principal place of business to meet statutory requirements.
What Information Does The Business Registration Certificate Include?
A business registration certificate typically includes the following information:
- Business Name: The registered name of the business or branch.
- Business Registration Number: A unique identification number assigned to the business. This is a very important number, as it is essentially your Tax identification Number as well. The next section will explain the importance of this number.
- Date of Issue: The date the certificate was issued.
- Business Address: The registered address of the business.
- Nature of Business: A brief description of the business activities.
- Type of Business Structure: Indicates whether it is a sole proprietorship, partnership, or corporation.
- Validity Period: The duration for which the registration is valid, typically one year.
- Registered Owner(s): Names of the business owners or directors, depending on the business structure.
This certificate is needed for various business operations, such as opening bank accounts and applying for licenses.
Who Needs A Business Registration Certificate In Hong Kong?
In Hong Kong, nearly all types of businesses are legally required to obtain a Business Registration Certificate (BRC) from the Inland Revenue Department (IRD). This requirement applies regardless of whether the business is locally incorporated or based offshore but operating in Hong Kong. If your business is going to conduct any profit-generating activities within the territory, getting a BRC within one month of commencement is mandatory to ensure full compliance with local laws.
Entities that require a BRC are:
- Sole proprietorships
- Partnerships
- Limited liability companies
- Non-Hong Kong (foreign) companies operating in Hong Kong
- Unincorporated bodies of persons
- Branches and representative offices
There are very limited exceptions, such as verified charitable organizations, non-profit societies, licensed hawkers, and businesses related to agriculture, market gardening, or fishing that are not incorporated or registered. However, these cases are rare and must be clearly verified with the IRD. If you are unsure about the requirements, it’s best to consult a professional or reach out to the IRD directly.
When Do You Need To Apply For The BRC?
You must apply for the business registration certificate no later than 30 days after your Hong Kong company is fully incorporated.
For example, a business that has a sole proprietorship or a partnership will need to apply for registration within one month of the start of the business operations. Likewise, foreign enterprises that want to start a branch in Hong Kong are also required to obtain this certificate within one month of their business establishment in Hong Kong.
Requirements For a Business Registration Certificate In Hong Kong
Before applying for a Business Registration Certificate (BRC), it is important to collect all the correct documents based on your business type. Here is a simplified guide for the required documents:
| Business Type | Application Method | Form Needed | Identification Needed | Additional Documents |
| Local Companies | One-stop Company and Business Registration | IRBR1 (Notice to Business Registration Office) | HKID or passport (for non-residents) | Company’s Incorporation Form (NNC1/NNC1G) and Articles of Association |
| Non-Hong Kong Companies | One-stop Company and Business Registration | IRBR2 (Notice to Business Registration Office) | Passport | Form NN1 for Registered Non-Hong Kong Company registration |
| Sole Proprietorships | Direct application to IRD | Business Registration Form 1(a) | HKID | Not applicable |
| Body Corporate | Direct application to IRD | Business Registration Form 1(b) | Certificate of Incorporation | Not applicable |
| Partnerships | Direct application to IRD | Business Registration Form 1(c) | HKID for all partners | Not applicable |
| Branches | Direct application to IRD | Business Registration Form 1(d) | Not applicable | Not applicable |
How To Apply For A Business Registration Certificate?
According to the Inland Revenue Department, as of 4 September 2023 onwards, the paper-based applications are fully replaced by the electronic service “Online Application for Business Registration Documents and Duplicate of a valid Business Registration Certificate”. You can still apply in person strictly by appointment, but walk-in services are no longer available.
This is a video provided by the Inland Revenue Department, we will go through this video below in a step-by-step manner and teach you how to apply for the business registration certificate.
Step-byStep Online Application
- Visit the eTAX page, and select “View Services”
- Choose “Application for Supply of Information on the Business Register” and click “Begin Application”
- Accept the Personal Information Collection Statement by clicking “Agree”
- Under application type, select “Apply for Supply of Information on the Business Register” and click “Continue”
- Provide the following information :
- Your Business Registration Number and Branch Number
- For the main business, use ‘000’ as the branch number
- Choose “Certified copy of a valid business/branch registration certificate”
- Confirm your application details and select if you’d like to submit another application
- Choose your delivery mode (download or postal mail), then fill in your name, contact details, and postal address (if needed).
- Take note of your Transaction Reference Number and proceed to payment.
- Choose your preferred payment method and complete the transaction.
- Save or print the acknowledgment page.
- If collecting in person, bring the acknowledgment page and your HKID (and company chop, if applicable) to the Business Registration Office within 2 months.
| Application channel | Certificate Format | Delivery method | Turnaround time |
| In-person to Business Registration Counter Services | Paper certificate | Collect over the counter | Issued within 30 minutes if properly filled |
| By post | Paper certificate | Send by post | Issued within two working days if properly filled |
| Online through GovHK | Electronic record | Download via GovHK | Issued within 2 working days if properly filled |
You can check out the instruction video provided by the Inland Revenue Department for more details.
Importance of Business Registration Number
A Business Registration Number (BRN) is assigned by the Inland Revenue Department (IRD) when your Business Registration Certificate (BRC) is issued. The BRN is your company’s unique identification number, like a Tax Identification Number (TIN). In most cases, this number also matches your company registration number.
The BRN is used extensively across various regulatory, financial, and operational processes in Hong Kong. It is required for tax filing, opening a corporate bank account, applying for business licenses, and submitting annual returns. It also acts as a primary reference when interacting with government agencies and other stakeholders, streamlining official communications and documentation.
Holding a BRN also provides strategic advantages:
- Ensures full compliance with Hong Kong’s legal and tax systems
- Facilitates smooth cross-border operations, especially with Mainland China
- Helps your business access benefits under bilateral trade agreements
- Enhances your corporate credibility and protects assets by formalizing your business presence
Penalties for Not Applying for a BRC
Failure to obtain and maintain their business registration certificate can be costly and may have court and financial implications. These can be among other things such as fines and imprisonment. These following penalties are quite severe for the violation. The maximum amount of fine and jail terms might be HK$5,000 and 1 year respectively.
These following penalties are quite severe for the violation. The maximum amount of fine and jail terms might be HK$5,000 and 1 year respectively.
Display Requirement for Business Registration Certificate
The Business Registration Certificate must be displayed prominently and visible at your workplace to show the proof of the legitimacy of your business. If you do not show your BRC, you may face fines and penalties which could be up to HK$5,000.
Where to display your BRC
Once you receive your Business Registration Certificate (BRC), it must be prominently displayed at the place of business. The certificate should be placed in a visible and accessible location, ideally near the entrance or reception area of your office or shop front.
The BRC must be displayed in physical form, digital copies are not accepted for official compliance purposes. Failing to display your BRC properly can result in a fine of up to HK$5,000 and even imprisonment for up to one year. To stay compliant, always ensure your certificate is printed, up-to-date, and clearly visible to the public and inspectors.
Renewal & Updates of the Business Registration Certificate
Obtaining a BRC is just the beginning, ongoing renewal and updates are necessary to keep your business in good legal standing. The BRC is valid one or three years, depending on your selection at the time of registration. It is highly recommended to initiate the renewal process at least one month before the expiry date.
Renewal Process
To renew your BRC:
- Submit the required form and supporting documents
- Include a crossed cheque for the renewal fee
- Mail your documents to the Inland Revenue Department (IRD) or visit the IRD Business Registration Office in person
- Bring your current BRC to request a new demand note
The IRD typically sends a renewal notification, but it is better to set your own reminders to avoid missing deadlines. Late renewals can get fined a HK$300 penalty, and failure to renew may result in further fines, court action, or even business suspension.
Updating Business Information on Your BRC
If your business information is changed, you are legally required to update your BRC with any changes, such as:
- Business address
- Nature of business
- Company name or ownership structure
These updates must be reported to the Business Registration Office within one month of the change. To update your BRC:
- Visit the Business Registration Office with your current certificate (printed or digital)
- Submit a written notice of the change
- Request a new demand note, if applicable
Failing to update your business details in time may lead to penalties or compliance issues. Staying current protects your business and maintains its good standing with authorities.
Additional Licensing Requirements
In addition to your BRC, certain business activities in Hong Kong require specific licenses, permits, or approvals from relevant government departments. These may include industries such as food and beverage, finance, healthcare, and more.
To apply for these additional licenses:
- Identify the required licenses based on your business nature by checking the relevant government websites.
- Complete the appropriate application forms
- Ensure your company is already registered with the Companies Registry before applying
Operating without the necessary permits can lead to hefty fines and potential imprisonment. It is important to note that each license may have different renewal timelines, so ensure to monitor their validity and renew them as required.
Why Should You Outsource The BRC Application Process?
Outsourcing the Business Registration Certificate (BRC) application process in Hong Kong offers several advantages:
1. Expertise and Knowledge
Professionals familiar with the local regulations can navigate the complexities of the application process, ensuring compliance and reducing the likelihood of errors.
2. Time Efficiency
Outsourcing saves valuable time, allowing you to focus on core business activities while experts handle the paperwork and interaction with government authorities.
3. Streamlined Process
Specialists can streamline the application process, often expediting approvals and minimizing delays, which is crucial for starting or expanding your business quickly.
4. Reduced Stress
Handling the application process can be stressful, especially for new entrepreneurs. Outsourcing alleviates this burden, providing peace of mind.
5. Access to Resources
Outsourcing firms often have resources and tools that can simplify the application process, making it more efficient and effective.
6. Cost-Effectiveness
While there is a fee for outsourcing, the potential costs associated with mistakes or delays can far exceed the expense of hiring professionals.
7. Ongoing Support
Outsourcing firms can provide ongoing support for future compliance, renewals, and other regulatory requirements, ensuring your business remains in good standing.
How FastLane Group Can Help?
At Fastlane, our team of experts has walked many companies through applying for and obtaining a Business Registration Certificate. Fastlane can also serve as your company secretary if you need assistance on various aspects related to business registration in Hong Kong. Having a professional and experienced firm on your side as a new company or business operating in Hong Kong can help you avoid the mistakes that many startups make.
Ready to learn more? Contact the Fastlane team today, and find out how our services can help you obtain your business registration certificate in Hong Kong—and much more!
