How to Change Your Company’s Registered Office Address in Hong Kong

Kristina Coluccia
Mar 4
3 min read

Changing your company’s registered office address in Hong Kong is a straightforward yet essential process that ensures your business remains compliant with the Companies Ordinance (Cap. 622). Whether you are relocating to a new office, expanding your operations, or simply updating your company records, notifying the relevant authorities accurately and promptly is a legal obligation.

This article provides a comprehensive guide on how to change your company’s registered office address in Hong Kong, outlining the necessary steps, documentation, and compliance requirements involved.

What Is a Registered Office Address?

A registered office address is the official address of a company, as recorded with the Companies Registry in Hong Kong. It serves as the primary location for receiving legal documents, notices, and official communications from government authorities. It must be a physical address located in Hong Kong; a P.O. Box is not acceptable.

When Should You Notify the Companies Registry?

According to the Companies Ordinance, any change in the registered office address must be reported to the Companies Registry within 15 days of the change. Failure to comply may result in penalties or delays in receiving critical communications.

Step-by-Step Guide to Changing Your Registered Office Address

1. Board Resolution

Before proceeding, a board resolution should be passed to approve the change of the registered office address. This ensures the decision is officially recorded and authorized by company directors.

2. Complete Form NR1

You are required to fill out Form NR1 – Notice of Change of Address of Registered Office. This form is available on the Hong Kong Companies Registry website.

3. Submit the Form to the Companies Registry

Form NR1 must be submitted either electronically through the e-Registry portal or in paper format directly to the Companies Registry. The form must be filed within 15 days from the effective date of the address change.

e-Registry: Offers quicker processing and acknowledgment.
Paper Submission: Must be delivered to the Companies Registry office located in Queensway, Hong Kong.

4. Notify Other Government Authorities (If Applicable)

Although updating the Companies Registry is the primary step, it is advisable to also notify:

The Inland Revenue Department (IRD): To update your business records and correspondence address.
Banking Institutions: To ensure seamless communication and access to services.
Business Partners and Clients: To maintain operational transparency and continuity.

5. Update Company Documents and Stationery

Once the change has been approved and processed, remember to update:

Business cards and letterheads
Website and marketing materials
Licenses and permits
Company signage (if required by lease or building regulations)

Important Considerations

The new address must be a Hong Kong physical address.
The change is effective from the date specified in the Form NR1, not the date of submission.
Ensure that the address is staffed during business hours to receive legal notices and government correspondence.

How Woodburn Can Support Your Address Change

At Woodburn Accountants & Advisors, we understand the importance of keeping your company fully compliant with Hong Kong's regulatory framework. Our experienced corporate services team provides end-to-end support for updating your registered office address—from drafting board resolutions and completing Form NR1, to liaising with the Companies Registry and other relevant authorities on your behalf. Whether you are relocating within Hong Kong or restructuring your business operations, Woodburn ensures a smooth, timely, and compliant transition.

Woodburn Accountants & Advisors is one of China and Hong Kong’s most trusted business setup advisory firms.

Woodburn Accountants & Advisors is specialized in inbound investment to China and Hong Kong. We focus on eliminating the complexities of corporate services and compliance administration. We help clients with services ranging from trademark registration and company incorporation to the full outsourcing solution for accounting, tax, and human resource services. Our advisory services can be tailor-made based on the companies’ objectives, goals and needs which vary depending on the stage they are at on their journey.