A Guide to eTAX in Hong Kong

Managing taxes in Hong Kong no longer needs to involve piles of paper forms or repeated trips to the Inland Revenue Department (IRD). eTAX Hong Kong is the IRD’s official online platform that allows individuals, property owners, and businesses to file tax returns, make payments, and manage records digitally.

By shifting tax compliance to a secure online system, eTAX simplifies the entire process—whether you’re filing your individual Salaries Tax return (BIR60), submitting Employer’s Returns (IR56 forms), or managing Property Tax and Business Registration matters. With features like e-alerts, pre-filled deduction data, and mobile access, the platform reduces errors, saves time, and helps you stay compliant with confidence.

In this guide, we’ll break down everything you need to know about eTAX Hong Kong—from how to register and file your returns to the latest 2025 updates, common mistakes to avoid, and how FastLane can support you in making tax compliance seamless.

What Is eTAX Hong Kong?

eTAX Hong Kong is the Inland Revenue Department’s (IRD) official online tax platform, launched to modernize how taxpayers manage their obligations. Instead of relying on paper forms or in-person visits, eTAX provides a secure, digital interface for filing, paying, and tracking tax matters.

The platform covers a wide range of tax areas, including:

• Salaries Tax (BIR60) for employees and individuals
  
• Profits Tax for sole proprietors and businesses
  
• Property Tax (BIR57) for property owners, including jointly owned properties
  
• Employer’s Returns (IR56 forms) for companies reporting remuneration and pensions
  
• Business Registration (BR) services such as applying, renewing, or updating details
  

Key Features of eTAX

• Digital filing: Submit tax returns online and reduce paperwork
  
• e-Notices & alerts: Receive reminders and notifications to avoid missed deadlines
  
• Pre-filled data: Save deduction details and have them auto-filled in future filings
  
• Record access: View past filings, tax bills, and assessments anytime
  
• Mobile responsive: Log in and file from any device, with iAM Smart login support
  
• Secure communication: Encrypted channels to correspond with IRD directly
  

In short, eTAX is a full-service digital tax platform designed to make compliance faster, safer, and more convenient for both individuals and businesses in Hong Kong.

Benefits of Using eTAX Hong Kong

Handling taxes can be time-consuming, but eTAX Hong Kong transforms the process into a faster, more efficient, and paperless experience. By shifting to a digital platform, the IRD has made tax compliance easier for both individuals and businesses.

Key Advantages

• Extra time to file
  Filing through eTAX usually gives taxpayers an automatic one-month extension beyond the paper filing deadline, reducing the risk of penalties.
  
• Convenience across devices
  Whether on a computer, tablet, or smartphone, the platform is fully responsive and allows secure logins via TIN + password, digital certificate, or iAM Smart/iAM Smart+.
  
• Real-time reminders and alerts
  Receive e-notices and e-alerts directly in your account, helping you stay on top of important dates for tax return submission and payments.
  
• Pre-filled deduction data
  Save your deduction details (such as donations or MPF contributions) for automatic prefill in future filings—saving time and reducing errors.
  
• 24/7 access to records
  Review past returns, payment history, and assessment notices anytime without needing physical copies.
  
• Eco-friendly and secure
  Going paperless reduces waste while IRD’s encryption and two-factor login options ensure your information is protected.

Who Can Use eTAX Hong Kong?

eTAX Hong Kong is designed to serve a wide range of taxpayers. As long as you have a Taxpayer Identification Number (TIN) issued by the Inland Revenue Department (IRD), you can register and manage your obligations online.

1. Individual Taxpayers

• Salaried employees with chargeable income
  
• Sole proprietors or freelancers earning business income
  
• Property owners receiving rental income (solely or jointly owned properties)
  
• Directors receiving director’s fees
  
• Taxpayers electing for Personal Assessment
  

2. Employers and Companies

• Businesses required to submit Employer’s Returns (IR56 forms)
  
• Companies filing Profits Tax Returns (BIR52/BIR54)
  
• Entities handling Business Registration (BR) applications, updates, or renewals
  
• Employers reporting remuneration, pensions, or staff benefits
  

3. Other Eligible Taxpayers

• Those applying for amendments to tax assessments or provisional tax
  
• Taxpayers submitting objections or appeals to assessments
  
• Individuals or companies requesting tax reliefs or refunds
  
• Anyone communicating with the IRD through secure eTAX digital channels

How to Register and Set Up Your eTAX Account

Getting started with eTAX Hong Kong is straightforward. Registration and setup are completed entirely online through the IRD’s official platform.

Step 1: Access the eTAX Portal

Visit the official GovHK eTAX website and select “Login eTAX Now”. New users should choose “Apply for eTAX Password / Access Code” to begin registration.

Step 2: Choose Your Login Method

You can register or log in using one of the following methods:

• TIN + eTAX Password / Access Code (most common option for first-time users)
  
• iAM Smart / iAM Smart+ – Hong Kong’s digital identity system, which also supports digital signing
  
• Recognised Digital Certificate issued by a trusted certification authority
  

Step 3: Apply for an Access Code (if new user)

First-time users will receive an access code by post after applying online. This code is required to activate your account.

Step 4: Accept Terms and Conditions

Before continuing, review and accept IRD’s Terms and Conditions for Use of eTAX Services.

Step 5: Create Your Password and Profile

• Set your Taxpayer Identification Number (TIN) and create a password (8–16 alphanumeric characters).
  
• Add password hints and recovery options.
  
• Enter your contact information, preferred language, and communication preferences (electronic vs postal notices).
  

Step 6: Confirm and Save Acknowledgement

Review all information, confirm details, and save or print the acknowledgement page, which includes your reference number and account confirmation.

Security Tip: eTAX uses encrypted transmission and supports two-factor authentication (2FA) via iAM Smart+. Treat your login details with the same care as online banking credentials.

How to File Taxes Online via eTAX

Once your eTAX account is activated, you can log in and complete your tax returns digitally. The platform supports different tax return types depending on your situation.

Step 1: Log In to Your eTAX Account

Use your Taxpayer Identification Number (TIN) and password, or log in via iAM Smart / Digital Certificate.

Step 2: Select the Correct Tax Return Form

• BIR60 – Tax Return – Individuals (Salaries Tax / Personal Assessment)
  
• BIR57 – Property Tax Return for property owners (sole or joint ownership)
  
• BIR52/BIR54 – Profits Tax Returns for businesses and partnerships
  
• IR56 Forms – Employer’s Returns of Remuneration and Pensions
  

Step 3: Complete the Tax Return Form

• Input your personal or company details
  
• Report all relevant income (salary, rental, business profits)
  
• Enter deductions and allowances (e.g., charitable donations, MPF contributions, dependent allowances)
  
• Upload supporting documents if required
  

Step 4: Review and Estimate Tax Liability

Before submitting, eTAX allows you to generate an estimated computation of your tax liability based on the figures you entered. This helps you catch errors early.

Step 5: Sign and Submit Your Return

You can sign and submit your return using:

• eTAX password
  
• MyGovHK password
  
• Recognised digital certificate
  
• iAM Smart / iAM Smart+
  

If filing a joint assessment, both spouses must sign electronically.

Step 6: Save or Print Your Acknowledgement

After submission, you’ll receive an acknowledgement page confirming receipt. Save or print this for your records—your return will also be stored in the Tax Position section of your eTAX account for future access.

Payments, Notices, and Records in eTAX Hong Kong

Filing your return is only part of the process — you also need to settle tax bills, keep track of assessments, and maintain proper records. eTAX Hong Kong provides a secure way to manage all of these tasks online.

Making Tax Payments

Through eTAX, you can pay your tax obligations using multiple channels:

• PPS (Phone and Internet Payment Service) – 24-hour electronic payment service
  
• Online banking transfers from major banks
  
• Credit card payments through designated gateways
  
• Bank ATMs and in-branch services
  
• Tax Reserve Certificates for prepaying taxes
  

All transactions are securely logged, and you can check your payment status directly in your account.

Accessing Tax Bills and Notices

Your eTAX account acts as your digital mailbox with the IRD. You can:

• View and download electronic tax bills in PDF format
  
• Receive e-alerts when new notices or assessments are issued
  
• Track outstanding balances and deadlines
  
• Access up to three years of tax bills and records at any time
  

Managing Tax Records

With eTAX, all your past submissions, amendments, and assessments are stored digitally. This ensures you have:

• Easy access to historical filings for reference or audit purposes
  
• A centralised record of payment receipts and acknowledgement slips
  
• The ability to print or download documents when needed

Latest Updates in eTAX Hong Kong (2024/25)

The Inland Revenue Department (IRD) continues to upgrade eTAX Hong Kong to keep pace with digital trends and taxpayer needs. The most recent updates introduced in late 2024 and 2025 make the platform more user-friendly, secure, and comprehensive.

1. Mobile-Responsive Portal

The eTAX interface now automatically adjusts to desktops, tablets, and mobile devices, making it easier to file and manage taxes on the go.

2. Pre-Save Deduction Records

Taxpayers can pre-save deduction details (such as charitable donations or MPF contributions). These are automatically pre-filled in future tax returns, cutting down manual entry and errors.

3. Upload Function for Amendments

When requesting amendments to provisional tax or assessments, taxpayers can now upload up to 5 supporting documents (total file size up to 200MB) directly through eTAX.

4. Enhanced Employer Filing Capacity

• The IR56 e-filing tool has expanded from 800 to 2,000 records per file.
  
• Employers can now upload up to 5,000 records in a single submission.
  
• Only a single signed control list is required, instead of signing each individual form.
  

5. Streamlined Business Registration Services

Business owners can now upload supporting documents for multiple partners and instantly view or download their approved Business Registration (BR) certificate online.

Common Mistakes to Avoid When Using eTAX

While eTAX Hong Kong makes tax compliance easier, small mistakes can still lead to penalties, delays, or unnecessary stress. Here are the most common issues taxpayers face — and how to avoid them.

1. Missing Filing Deadlines

Even though e-filing usually grants a one-month extension, the deadline is still strict. Late submissions can result in penalties. Always mark your calendar or set reminders.

2. Incorrect Income Reporting

One of the most frequent errors is misreporting income — whether salaries, rental income, or sole proprietorship profits. Always reconcile figures against employer forms, tenancy agreements, and financial statements before submission.

3. Claiming Deductions Without Proper Proof

Deductions such as donations, MPF contributions, or dependent allowances must be backed by valid receipts. Without documentation, IRD may reject your claims.

4. Filing the Wrong Form or Election

Some taxpayers mistakenly file only as individuals, forgetting to include sole proprietorship income, or they elect for Personal Assessment incorrectly. Use eTAX guidance carefully or seek professional review.

5. Failing to Update Personal or Business Details

Outdated contact information, addresses, or business particulars can cause missed notices and rejected filings. Always update your eTAX profile promptly.

Conclusion

eTAX Hong Kong has transformed the way individuals and businesses manage their tax obligations, making the process faster, more secure, and fully digital. From filing returns and paying taxes to accessing records and receiving alerts, the platform simplifies compliance and helps you stay organised year-round.

Yet, while eTAX makes filing easier, ensuring accuracy and compliance still matters. Partnering with a trusted advisor like FastLane gives you the confidence that your tax filings, audits, and financial obligations are handled professionally and on time — so you can focus on running and growing your business. Contact us now.

FAQs About eTAX Hong Kong

1. Who can use eTAX in Hong Kong?
Most taxpayers with a valid Taxpayer Identification Number (TIN) can register, including individuals, property owners, employers, and businesses.

2. What if I make a mistake after filing my return?
You can submit an amendment request directly in eTAX. Supporting documents (up to 5 files, max 200MB) can be uploaded to back up your correction.

3. Why is my account showing an “Outstanding Tax Return” alert?
This means you have a pending return not yet filed by the deadline. Check your eTAX Inbox or Tax Position section to verify status.

4. Can I use eTAX on my phone?
Yes. The 2025 portal is mobile-responsive and supports login via iAM Smart/iAM Smart+, making it easy to file on the go.

5. How can I track my tax refund?
Refund status appears under View Tax Position in your eTAX account. Approved refunds are usually issued by cheque or direct bank transfer.6. What are the employer filing limits in eTAX?
The IR56 e-filing tool now supports 2,000 records per file and up to 5,000 records per upload, making it easier for larger companies to comply.