Frequently Asked Questions About Business Registrations In Hong Kong

Registering a business in Hong Kong is the very first step for any entrepreneur who wants to operate legally and tap into one of the world’s most dynamic markets. Governed by the Business Registration Ordinance (Cap. 310) and administered by the Inland Revenue Department (IRD), business registration ensures that your company is officially recognised and compliant with Hong Kong regulations.

Once approved, you will receive a Business Registration Certificate (BRC) along with a unique Business Registration Number (also known as your Unique Business Identifier, UBI, and Tax Identification Number, TIN). This certificate not only legitimises your operations, but is also required for opening bank accounts, applying for licenses, entering into contracts, and demonstrating trustworthiness to clients and partners.

For entrepreneurs and investors, Hong Kong’s low tax regime, straightforward regulatory environment, and global connectivity make it an ideal place to start and scale a business. However, the registration process involves strict documentation, compliance obligations, and ongoing renewals that can be challenging if you are unfamiliar with local requirements.

This guide addresses the 17 most common questions about business registration in Hong Kong — from eligibility and costs to timelines, compliance, and penalties — so you can understand every step with confidence.

1. Who Needs to Get a Business Registration in Hong Kong?

Under the Business Registration Ordinance (Cap. 310), all businesses carrying on activities in Hong Kong must register with the Inland Revenue Department’s Business Registration Office within one month of commencing operations.

Entities required to register include:

• Any revenue-generating business activity — regardless of size or turnover.
  
• Companies incorporated in Hong Kong under the Companies Ordinance, even if they are not actively trading.
  
• Foreign companies with a branch, place of business, or liaison office in Hong Kong.
  
• Foreign companies leasing office space or property in Hong Kong, even if no physical operations are carried out.
  
• Clubs or associations providing services or facilities to members for a fee.
  

Exemptions from registration:

Certain activities do not require business registration, such as:

• Charitable institutions recognised by the IRD.
  
• Licensed hawkers (though only if operating inside a building).
  
• Agriculture, livestock, and fishery businesses — except those incorporated locally or registered under the Companies Ordinance.
  
• Employees or officeholders (individuals employed by a company are not considered as “carrying on business”).
  

Why registration matters:

Without a valid Business Registration Certificate (BRC), your company cannot:

• Legally operate in Hong Kong.
  
• Open a corporate bank account.
  
• Apply for business licenses.
  
• Enter into contracts.
  

Failure to register on time can lead to fines up to HK$5,000 and imprisonment for up to 1 year (covered in FAQ 8).

2. What Are the Steps to Register a Business in Hong Kong?

The process of business registration in Hong Kong is straightforward, but it requires careful attention to documentation and compliance. Here are the essential steps every business must follow:

Step 1: Choose Your Business Structure

Decide on the legal form of your business. The most common options include:

• Sole Proprietorship – simple to set up, but the owner assumes unlimited liability.
  
• Partnership – suitable for two or more owners, with shared responsibilities and risks.
  
• Private Limited Company – the most popular option for entrepreneurs and foreign investors, offering limited liability protection and a professional business image.
  

Tip: Most international businesses choose a Private Limited Company due to liability protection and credibility with banks and partners. Check What Is A Legal Entity In Hong Kong?

Step 2: Select a Company Name

• Your name must be unique and comply with Companies Registry guidelines.
  
• It can be in English, Chinese, or both.
  
• Check availability via the Companies Registry e-Search Portal and FastLane Free Company Name Search Service.
  
• Ensure it does not infringe existing trademarks.
  

Step 3: Prepare the Required Documents

The documents vary depending on your business structure:

For Sole Proprietorships or Partnerships

• Completed Form 1(a) (sole proprietorship) or Form 1(c) (partnership).
  
• Copy of owner/partners’ ID or passport.
  

For Limited Companies

• Incorporation Form NNC1 (for company limited by shares).
  
• Articles of Association.
  
• Proof of registered office address.
  
• Identity documents of directors, shareholders, and company secretary.
  
• For corporate shareholders: a copy of the parent company’s registration documents.
  

Step 4: Submit Your Application

You can submit your application:

• Online via the e-Registry platform (fastest, often approved within hours).
  
• In person at the Companies Registry (BRC issued in ~30 minutes).
  
• By post for certain renewals or updates.

How to Use the e-Service Portal

1. Register for an Account: Visit the e-Services Portal and create a user account.
2. Fill in the Application Form: Enter your company details, upload the required documents, and pay the registration fee.
3. Track Your Application: Once submitted, you can track the status of your application through the portal.

For detailed steps, please refer to the Guide on Using e-Service Portal.

Step 5: Pay the Registration Fees

• Business Registration Certificate (BRC): HK$2,200 (1 year) / HK$5,720 (3 years).
  
• Incorporation fee for limited companies: HK$1,545 (online) or HK$1,720 (hard copy).
  (Levy to the Protection of Wages on Insolvency Fund is waived until March 31, 2026.)

Check the Inland Revenue Department (IRD) for the latest updates.

Step 6: Receive Your Certificates

Once approved, you will be issued:

• Certificate of Incorporation (CI) by the Companies Registry.
  
• Business Registration Certificate (BRC) by the Inland Revenue Department.
  

These documents confirm your company’s legal status and must be displayed at your registered office.

With FastLane, we manage every step — from name search to incorporation, registration, and compliance setup — so you receive your certificates quickly and without errors.

3. What Documents Are Required for Business Registration in Hong Kong?

The exact documents you need will depend on your chosen business structure. Whether you are registering as a sole proprietor, partnership, or private limited company, it is crucial to prepare all required forms and supporting documents correctly to avoid delays or rejection.

For Sole Proprietorships

• Application Form 1(a) – completed and signed.
  
• Copy of owner’s identification document (HKID card or passport).
  
• Proof of business address (e.g., tenancy agreement, utility bill, or registered address service provider confirmation).
  

For Partnerships

• Application Form 1(c) – completed and signed.
  
• Copies of all partners’ HKID or passport.
  
• Proof of business address.
  

For Private Limited Companies (Most Common Structure)

• Incorporation Form (NNC1 or NNC1G) – detailing company name, type, shareholding structure, directors, and company secretary.
  
• Articles of Association – the governing document of the company.
  
• Proof of registered office address – must be a physical address in Hong Kong (P.O. boxes are not accepted).
  
• Identity documents:
  
  • Directors – HKID or passport (must be at least 18 years old and not bankrupt/disqualified).
    
  • Shareholders – HKID, passport, or corporate registration documents (for company shareholders).
    
  • Company Secretary – HK resident or licensed corporate service provider (a sole director cannot act as secretary).
    
• Details of share capital – typically HK$10,000 represented by 10,000 shares at HK$1 each, though no statutory minimum applies.
  
• Corporate shareholder documents – Certificate of Incorporation and constitutional documents of the parent company.
  

Additional Notes and Compliance Points

• Foreign directors/shareholders: Must provide passport + residential address proof from their home country.
  
• Documents in other languages: Must be submitted with a certified English or Chinese translation.
  
• Branch registration: If your company operates under a different trade name, a separate Business Registration Certificate (BRC) must be obtained for that branch.
  
• Notice to Business Registration Office (IRBR1): Must also be submitted to register the company for tax purposes with the IRD.
  

4. How Long Does the Business Registration Process Take in Hong Kong?

One of the biggest advantages of setting up in Hong Kong is the speed and efficiency of the registration system. The timeline depends on your submission method and business structure, but in most cases, the process is completed within a few days.

Standard Processing Times

• Online Applications (e-Registry):
  
  • Fastest option, with approvals usually granted within 1 day.
    
  • In some cases, digital certificates can be issued in as little as 1 hour.
    
• In-Person Submissions:
  
  • If you visit the Companies Registry, the Business Registration Certificate (BRC) can be issued on the spot in about 30 minutes.
    
• Hard Copy Applications by Mail:
  
  • Typically processed in 4 working days, due to manual handling and postal delivery.
    
• One-Stop Incorporation Service:
  
  • The Certificate of Incorporation (CI) and the Business Registration Certificate (BRC) are issued together, making the process smoother and faster for new companies.
    

Application Deadline

All businesses must register with the Inland Revenue Department (IRD) within one month of commencing operations. Missing this deadline can result in fines or penalties (see FAQ 8).

5. What Are the Costs of Business Registration in Hong Kong?

The cost of business registration in Hong Kong depends on the type of entity, the method of submission, and whether you choose a 1-year or 3-year Business Registration Certificate (BRC).

Business Registration Certificate (BRC) Fees

As of April 1, 2024 – March 31, 2026, the levy to the Protection of Wages on Insolvency Fund has been waived, reducing the total payable amount.

Incorporation Fees for Limited Companies

In addition to the BRC, companies must pay an incorporation fee to the Companies Registry:

• Electronic (Online): HK$1,545
  
• Hard Copy Submission: HK$1,720
  

Other Possible Costs

• Company Name Search: HK$45 per request.
  
• Translation/Certification: If documents are in another language.
  
• Professional Fees: Engaging a licensed corporate service provider (such as FastLane) to manage incorporation, company secretary, and compliance.
  

Renewal Fees

Renewal of the BRC follows the same fee structure as initial registration (HK$2,200 for 1 year / HK$5,720 for 3 years), with demand notes usually sent out one month before expiry.

6. What Does the Business Registration Number Mean in Hong Kong?

When you register a business in Hong Kong, the Inland Revenue Department (IRD) issues a unique Business Registration Number (BRN). This number is your company’s official identity for all legal, tax, and regulatory purposes.

What is the BRN?

• An eight-digit number printed on your Business Registration Certificate (BRC).
  
• Serves as the company’s official identifier with the Hong Kong government.
  
• Required whenever you deal with the IRD, open a bank account, apply for licenses, or enter into major contracts.
  

UBI and TIN Integration (From December 27, 2023)

Hong Kong has streamlined company identification by adopting the Unique Business Identifier (UBI) system:

• The BRN now also functions as the UBI and the Tax Identification Number (TIN).
  
• This single identifier is used consistently across both the Business Registration Certificate (BRC) and the Certificate of Incorporation (CI).
  
• It is required for:
  
  • Profits Tax Returns and other tax filings with the IRD.
    
  • Banking transactions, such as opening a corporate account.
    
  • Government licensing and permits.
    
  • Regulatory compliance and cross-department correspondence.
    

Why is the BRN Important?

• It is the primary proof of legitimacy for your business.
  
• It ensures your company can operate legally and transparently.
  
• Without it, you cannot complete core activities like banking, tax filing, or applying for operational permits.
  

7. What Happens If I Don’t Register My Business on Time in Hong Kong?

All businesses in Hong Kong must apply for registration with the Inland Revenue Department (IRD) within one month of commencing operations. Failure to do so is a breach of the Business Registration Ordinance (Cap. 310) and can result in serious consequences.

Penalties for Late or Non-Registration

• Financial Penalty: A fine of up to HK$5,000.
  
• Criminal Liability: Imprisonment for up to 1 year.
  
• Additional Fees: You may be required to pay the business registration fee and levies for both the current year and any past year in which the business was unregistered.
  

Impact on Your Business

• Inability to open a corporate bank account.
  
• Difficulty entering into contracts or applying for licenses.
  
• Loss of credibility with customers, suppliers, and partners.
  
• Higher compliance risks, including additional penalties for late filing of annual returns or tax obligations.
  

8. Does the Business Registration Have to Match the Company Name Registered with the Companies Registry?

Not always. In Hong Kong, a company may carry on business under a name that is different from its registered company name at the Companies Registry.

How It Works

• The name registered with the Companies Registry is the company’s legal name, which appears on the Certificate of Incorporation (CI).
  
• If you choose to operate under another name (a “business name”), you must apply for a separate Business Registration Certificate (BRC) for that name.
  
• Each business name is treated as a branch, and requires its own BRC, even though it may be operated by the same company.
  

Example

• Legal Company Name: ABC Consulting Limited (as shown on the CI).
  
• Business Trading Name: ABC Marketing Solutions.
  
• In this case, ABC Consulting Limited needs a separate BRC for “ABC Marketing Solutions.”
  

Why This Matters

Registering all business names properly ensures:

• Legal compliance under the Business Registration Ordinance.
  
• Credibility with clients, banks, and partners.
  
• Smooth operations, especially when signing contracts or applying for licenses under the trading name.

9. Where Should I Display My Business Registration Certificate?

In Hong Kong, once your Business Registration Certificate (BRC) is issued by the Inland Revenue Department (IRD), it must be displayed prominently at your place of business. This requirement applies to all businesses, regardless of size or structure.

• Main Office: The original BRC should be placed in a visible area at your registered business address.
  
• Branches or Additional Locations: Each branch must also display either the original or a certified copy of the certificate.
  
• Electronic Certificates: If your BRC was issued digitally, a printed version is acceptable for display.
  

Failing to comply with this obligation can lead to a fine of up to HK$5,000, so it’s important to ensure your certificate is always visible at your business premises.

10. How to Renew a Business Registration Certificate in Hong Kong?

The Business Registration Certificate (BRC) must be renewed either annually or every three years, depending on the validity period chosen at registration. Renewal ensures your business remains legally recognised under Hong Kong law.

The Business Registration Office of the IRD usually issues a renewal demand note about one month before your certificate expires. Once the renewal fee is paid, the demand note itself becomes a valid Business Registration Certificate.

Renewal Methods

1. In Person – Bring the renewal demand note and pay at the Business Registration Office or designated collection points.
   
2. By Post – Mail the renewal demand note together with a cheque made payable to “The Government of the Hong Kong Special Administrative Region.”
   
3. Online – Renew electronically via the GovHK platform or eTax services, which is convenient for both local and overseas business owners.
   

If You Don’t Receive a Demand Note

If the demand note is not received, you must contact the IRD or submit a written request within one month of expiry. Failing to renew on time may lead to penalties, including fines of up to HK$5,000.

11. What Is the Renewal Procedure for the Business Registration Certificate In Person?

If you prefer to renew your Business Registration Certificate (BRC) in person, the process is straightforward:

1. Receive the Renewal Demand Note
   
   • The Business Registration Office (under the IRD) sends out a renewal demand note about one month before expiry.
     
   • This document specifies the renewal fee and levy payable.
     
2. Visit the Business Registration Office
   
   • Bring the renewal demand note along with your payment.
     
   • Payments can be made in cash, cheque, EPS, or at designated banks.
     
3. Pay the Renewal Fee
   
   • Once payment is made, the demand note itself is treated as a valid renewed Business Registration Certificate.
     
4. Keep the Renewed Certificate on Display
   
   • The certificate (or certified copy) must be displayed in a visible spot at your business premises, including each branch location.
     

If the demand note does not arrive, you must notify the Commissioner of Inland Revenue within one month after expiry to request renewal — otherwise your business risks penalties of up to HK$5,000.

12. Can I Renew the Business Registration Certificate by Post?

Yes. If you prefer not to visit the office in person, you can renew your Business Registration Certificate (BRC) by post. The procedure is as follows:

1. Prepare the Renewal Demand Note
   
   • The Business Registration Office will send you a renewal demand note about one month before expiry.
     
2. Issue a Cheque
   
   • Write a crossed cheque made payable to “The Government of the Hong Kong Special Administrative Region.”
     
   • Ensure the cheque amount matches the fee stated on the demand note.
     
3. Mail the Documents
   
   • Send the cheque together with the renewal demand note (and, if applicable, a copy of your existing BRC) to the Business Registration Office, Inland Revenue Department.
     
4. Receive Your Renewed Certificate
   
   • The renewed certificate will be sent to your registered business address.
     
   • If your business address has changed, include a written notice with the new address details when mailing the documents.
     

Failure to renew on time may result in penalties, including a fine of up to HK$5,000.

13. In Addition to the Business Registration, What Other Permits or Licenses Do I Need to Run My Business in Hong Kong?

A Business Registration Certificate (BRC) is only the first step to operating legally in Hong Kong. Depending on your business activities, you may also need to obtain additional licenses or permits from relevant government departments.

Examples of Common Licenses in Hong Kong

• Food & Beverage: Restaurant License, Liquor License (Food and Environmental Hygiene Department).
  
• Retail & Import/Export: Import and Export License, Trade License (Customs and Excise Department).
  
• Financial Services: Money Lenders License, Trust or Corporate Services Provider License, Securities and Futures License (SFC).
  
• Education & Training: School Registration Certificate (Education Bureau).
  
• Travel & Tourism: Travel Agent’s License (Travel Agents Registry).
  
• Healthcare & Wellness: Medical Clinic License, Chinese Medicine Practitioner Registration.
  

Since licensing requirements vary by industry, it is essential to confirm which permits apply to your business before commencing operations.

14. Is There a Method for Accessing Information Regarding Registered Companies in Hong Kong?

Yes. Information about registered companies in Hong Kong is publicly accessible through the Companies Registry. The main platform is the Integrated Companies Registry Information System (ICRIS), available via the Companies Registry website.

How to Access Company Information

1. Company Search Mobile Service (CSMS):
   
   • Provides quick access to basic company details, including company name, registration number, and status.
     
   • Useful for on-the-go checks.
     
2. Company Search via ICRIS:
   
   • Allows you to obtain detailed information such as incorporation date, company type, and particulars of directors and company secretaries.
     
   • You can also purchase copies of documents filed with the Companies Registry (e.g. Annual Returns, Articles of Association).
     
3. Business Registration Information (via IRD):
   
   • The Business Registration Number (BRN) can also be cross-checked since it now serves as the Unique Business Identifier (UBI) and Tax Identification Number (TIN).
     

These services ensure transparency and help investors, clients, and partners verify a company’s legitimacy before doing business.

15. What Will Happen to the Business Registration Certificate if My Business Shuts Down?

If your business ceases operations in Hong Kong, you must notify the Commissioner of Inland Revenue within one month of closure. The notification should be made using Form IRC 3113 (Notification of Cessation of Business).

Key Steps When a Business Shuts Down

1. File the Notification: Submit Form IRC 3113 online via GovHK, in person, or by post to the Business Registration Office.
   
2. Pay Outstanding Fees: Any unpaid business registration fees or levies must be settled before final closure.
   
3. Cancel or Deregister the Entity (if applicable):
   
   • For companies incorporated in Hong Kong, you must go through the deregistration or liquidation process with the Companies Registry in addition to notifying the IRD.
     
   • Sole proprietorships and partnerships can simply file cessation and settle fees with the IRD.
     
4. Return or Update Certificates: Once the cessation is recorded, the Business Registration Certificate becomes invalid.
   

Failing to notify the IRD may result in penalties, including fines and continued liability for annual business registration fees even after the business has stopped operating.

16. What Are the Common Mistakes to Avoid When Registering a Business in Hong Kong?

While Hong Kong offers one of the most efficient and business-friendly registration systems in the world, mistakes during the process can lead to delays, added costs, or even penalties. Below are the most common pitfalls to watch out for:

Common Mistakes

• Incomplete or Incorrect Documentation
  Missing required forms (e.g. NNC1, IRBR1) or providing inaccurate shareholder/director details can cause rejections or processing delays.
  
• Improper Company Name Selection
  Choosing a name that conflicts with existing businesses, trademarks, or Companies Registry naming rules may result in rejection.
  
• Not Appointing a Qualified Company Secretary
  Every Hong Kong company must appoint a local company secretary. Failing to do so can result in non-compliance from day one.
  
• Neglecting to Display or Renew the BRC
  Forgetting to display your Business Registration Certificate (BRC) at your business address, or missing the renewal deadline, may lead to fines of up to HK$5,000.
  
• Overlooking Ongoing Compliance
  Registration is only the first step. Companies must maintain proper accounting records, file annual returns, and submit audited financial statements to remain compliant.

17. What Happens After I Register My Business in Hong Kong?

Registering your business is only the first step. Once your Business Registration Certificate (BRC) and, if applicable, your Certificate of Incorporation (CI) are issued, there are several ongoing obligations and practical steps to ensure your company operates smoothly and remains compliant.

Key Post-Registration Obligations

• Display Your BRC: The certificate must be clearly displayed at your place of business.
  
• Renew on Time: The BRC must be renewed annually or every three years, depending on your chosen validity period.
  
• Maintain Proper Accounting Records: Companies are required to keep accurate books of accounts.
  
• Annual Audit: All Hong Kong-incorporated companies must have their financial statements audited by a Hong Kong CPA.
  
• File Tax Returns: Companies must file annual Profits Tax Returns with the Inland Revenue Department.
  
• Update the IRD on Changes: Any changes in business details (e.g. name, address, nature of business, partners, or cessation) must be reported within one month.
  

Practical Next Steps for Businesses

• Open a Corporate Bank Account (often requires your BRC, CI, and company documents).
  
• Apply for Industry-Specific Licenses if your business activity requires it.
  
• Appoint a Company Secretary (mandatory for Hong Kong limited companies).
  
• Set Up Payroll & MPF if you plan to hire employees.
  

How FastLane Group Can Help?

At FastLane, we don’t just help you register your business — we support you with everything that follows: accounting, audit, tax filing, company secretary services, payroll, and ongoing compliance. With us, you can focus on growth while we handle the regulatory side. Contact us today!