What Is a Business Registration Certificate for a Hong Kong Company?
- Kristina Coluccia
- Mar 4
- 3 min read
If you're planning to launch or operate a business in Hong Kong, one of the first legal requirements you'll encounter is obtaining a Business Registration Certificate (BRC). But what exactly is it, why is it essential, and how do you get one?
In this article, we'll explain what a Business Registration Certificate is, how to apply for it, and why it matters for compliance in Hong Kong.
What Is a Business Registration Certificate?
A Business Registration Certificate is an official document issued by the Hong Kong Inland Revenue Department (IRD). It serves as proof that your company is legally registered to operate a business in Hong Kong.
This certificate contains key information, including:
Company name
Business registration number
Date of commencement
Type of business
Registered address
Validity period (usually 1 or 3 years)
It must be displayed at your principal place of business and renewed annually or triennially, depending on your selected term.
Who Needs a Business Registration Certificate?
All entities doing business in Hong Kong are required to obtain a BRC, including:
Private limited companies
Sole proprietorships
Partnerships
Branches of foreign companies
Clubs, trade associations, and NGOs (if engaged in commercial activity)
Even companies not actively trading but incorporated in Hong Kong must apply.
When and How to Apply
For New Companies
When you register a Hong Kong limited company, the application for a Business Registration Certificate is made together with the incorporation process. The Companies Registry and Inland Revenue Department coordinate to issue:
Certificate of Incorporation
Business Registration Certificate
These are typically issued within 1–5 working days.
For Other Business Types
Sole proprietorships and partnerships must register directly with the IRD by submitting:
Form IRBR37 (Application for Business Registration)
Proof of identity and address
Information about the business activities
You must apply within 1 month of starting your business operations.
Cost of a Business Registration Certificate
As of the current government fee structure:
1-year certificate: HK$250Â (plus HK$150 levy)
3-year certificate: HK$3,950Â (plus HK$450 levy)
(Note: Fees are subject to change depending on government policy. Always check the IRD website for the latest updates.)
Renewal and Penalties
You must renew your BRC before it expires. The IRD typically sends a renewal demand note one month before expiry. Late renewal or failure to display your BRC can result in fines of up to HK$5,000Â and imprisonment for 1 year.
Why Partner with Woodburn?
At Woodburn Accountants & Advisors, we specialize in making business compliance seamless for companies operating in Hong Kong and China. We handle:
Business registration and renewals
Company incorporation
Tax advisory and accounting services
Corporate governance and compliance
With Woodburn, you avoid costly mistakes and ensure your business stays 100% compliant from day one. Whether you're a startup founder or managing a global enterprise, our team offers personalized support every step of the way.
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.