In December 2023, Hong Kong Companies Registry introduced a new Unique Business Identifier (UBI) system for all entities under the Registrar of Companies in Hong Kong. Before the new system, Hong Kong companies used to have 2 different numbers: company registration number and business registration number. Now, the new system established the Business Registration Number (BRN) as its UBI of the entity and company registration number (CRN) is not used anymore. In this blog, we will explore more details about what UBI is, where you can use UBI and how to obtain UBI.
Content Outline
Key Takeaways
BRN Is Official UBI
As of December 2023, the BRN officially replaces the Company Registration Number (CRN) as the Unique Business Identifier in Hong Kong.
Standardized Identification
The UBI simplifies communication between businesses and government departments, reducing errors and improving regulatory efficiency.
How to Find UBI
Entities can locate their UBI through the BRN or a system-generated dummy BRN, depending on their incorporation date and registration status.
Where to Use UBI
The BRN is now mandatory for filings with the Companies Registry and acts as the primary search key in the Electronic Search Services.
Proof of Change
Businesses can obtain an Information Sheet or a Letter of Confirmation from the Companies Registry as official evidence of the UBI transition.
Business Registration Number (BRN) and Company Registration Number (CRN)
A Business Registration Number (BRN) is issued by the Inland Revenue Department (IRD) when you register your business. It is mandatory for all businesses operating in Hong Kong, whether they are sole proprietorships, partnerships, or limited companies.
A Company Registration Number (CRN) is issued by the Companies Registry when you incorporate a limited company. It uniquely identifies your company in the official registry.
Read Business Registration Number Vs. Company Registration Number in Hong Kong
What Is The Unique Business Identifier (UBI)?
The Unique Business Identifier (UBI) is an identification system implemented by the Hong Kong Companies Registry (HKCR) in order to identify legal entities through simplified transactions and regulatory interactions. This system can be used for communication and exchange of data between government departments and businesses to reduce errors from using different identifiers when identifying the same entity. UBI helps governments to improve their public service delivery and entity regulation.
How Can I Check the UBI of Your Company/ Entity?
For entities with a Business Registration Number (BRN)
The Business Registration Number (BRN) which is the first 8 digits of the Business Registration Certificate number issued by the Business Registration Office of the Inland Revenue Department is the Unique Business Identifier.
See reference below
For entities without a Business Registration Number (BRN)
| Entity Type | How To Check UBI | Remarks |
| Companies incorporated on or after 27 Dec 2023 | BRN is adopted as the “No.” on the “Certificate of Incorporation” or “Certificate of Registration of Non-Hong Kong Company.” | Regular BRN |
| Companies incorporated before 27 Dec 2023 under the Companies Ordinance and entities formed / registered under miscellaneous ordinances | A dummy BRN is created using the previous Company Number/ CR Number/ Company Registration Number of the companies/ entities in the Registry’s records | Entities exempt from BR; dummy BRN used for Companies Registry but not IRD |
| Existing local company without a BRN | Prefix “C” added to the CR Number. Zeros are added if total digits are less than eight (e.g., “C0012345”). | “C” stands for local company |
| Non-Hong Kong company without a BRN | Prefix “F” added to the CR Number. Zeros are added to form 8 digits (e.g., “F0001234”). | “F” stands for non-HK company |
| Entities with a dummy BRN (no IRD registration) | Dummy BRN (with alphabetic prefix) is used for Companies Registry only. It does not exempt entities from business registration or other statutory obligations. | Must fulfill statutory obligations and register with IRD to conduct business in Hong Kong |
See references below
You can look up the BRN of a company / entity by the existing Company Number / CR Number / Company Registration Number and vice versa by using the “Quick Search > CR No. / BRN Mapping” function provided in the Electronic Search Services of the Companies Registry.
Learn more details here.
Where Can I Use the UBI of My Company?
The Unique Business Identifier (UBI), which is your Business Registration Number (BRN), can be used as your company’s official identification number when dealing with government departments. Since the implementation of the UBI system on 27 December 2023, the BRN has become the standard reference for filing forms and documents with the Companies Registry. In addition, the BRN is now the primary search key used in the Companies Registry’s Electronic Search Services. This allows stakeholders to easily search for and identify your company or entity in official records.
Can I Get Evidence of My Company’s Identification Number Change After UBI Implementation?
Yes, you can obtain official documentation as proof of the change to using the BRN as your company’s UBI. The Companies Registry offers two options and both documents provide legitimate evidence of your company’s updated identification number under the UBI system.
- Information Sheet: This document shows the transition from the previous Company Registration Number (CRN) to the BRN. It is publicly accessible and can be purchased as an image record via the Registry’s e-Services Portal.
- Letter of Confirmation: You may also request a formal Letter of Confirmation issued by the Companies Registry as official proof of the Unique Business Identifier. This can also be applied through the Electronic Search Services on the new e-Services portal. As of the latest fee schedule, the application cost is HK$130.
Conclusion
In summary, the implementation of the Unique Business Identifier (UBI) system is a significant step forward in simplifying business identification and regulatory processes in Hong Kong. By adopting the Business Registration Number (BRN) as the standard identifier, businesses can now enjoy greater efficiency, consistency, and transparency when dealing with government entities. Whether you’re a newly incorporated company or an existing entity, understanding and using your UBI is essential for compliance and smooth operations in Hong Kong’s evolving business landscape.
How Can FastLane Group Help?
With the Unique Business Identifier (UBI) system, Hong Kong streamline business procedures and minimize errors, strengthening its position as a major global financial hub. For these transformations, businesses should also be ready and use the simplified business recognition through UBI for more success in their operations. Contact FastLane Group company secretary service for your smooth business journey. Schedule a meeting with us!
