Company Registration Number and Business Registration Number in Hong Kong

Running a business in Hong Kong requires both a company registration number and a business registration number, but some entrepreneurs might confuse the two. The company registration number is issued by the Companies Registry upon incorporation, while the business registration number comes from the Inland Revenue Department after registering the business. These identifiers serve different legal and administrative purposes.

Understanding what a company registration number means and the role of the business registration number Hong Kong businesses must obtain is essential to avoid errors in banking, taxation, and compliance procedures. In this guide, we explain the differences between these two important numbers and how each is used in Hong Kong.

What Is a Business Registration Number in Hong Kong?

The business registration number in Hong Kong is an 8-digit identifier issued by the Inland Revenue Department (IRD) when a business is registered in Hong Kong. It is displayed on the Business Registration Certificate, typically found in the upper right corner. This number is mandatory for all types of businesses, including sole proprietorships, partnerships, and limited companies, and plays a key role in ensuring tax and regulatory compliance.

Key Functions and Usage of a Business Registration Number

The business registration number Hong Kong businesses receive is more than just a registration code. It is essential for ongoing operations, legal compliance, and communication with government authorities.

• Tax Identification: The business registration number serves as the official tax identification number and must be used for all tax filings and correspondence with the Inland Revenue Department.
• Verification and Licensing: The number is required when issuing invoices, applying for business licenses, and verifying your company’s registration status with government departments.
• Certificate Renewal:
It is necessary for renewing the Business Registration Certificate, which must be done annually or every three years to maintain compliance.
• International Reporting:
It also functions as the Taxpayer Identification Number (TIN) for cross-border transactions and international reporting requirements.
• Legal Business Operations:
Without a valid business registration number, a company cannot legally operate, file taxes, or engage in many essential commercial activities in Hong Kong.

Who Needs a BRN?

According to the Inland Revenue Department, every business operating in Hong Kong, whether a limited company, sole proprietorship, partnership or branch, must obtain a BRN in one month after the business starts, and display valid certification at the business location.

If you fail to apply for a business registration number within the required timeframe in Hong Kong, you will face a fine of up to HKD 5,000 and imprisonment for up to one year*. Additionally, if the registration is delayed for more than 12 months, you will be required to pay the current year’s business registration fee as well as the fees for the previous year.

*might be subject to changes over time

Don’t Miss Out: Company Formation in Hong Kong: Process, Fees and Documents

What a Company Registration Number Means in Hong Kong?

The company registration number in Hong Kong is a unique 7-digit identifier issued by the Hong Kong Companies at the time of incorporation. The number is displayed on the Certificate of Incorporation, typically found in the upper left corner of the certificate. The company registration number means that your business is officially recognised as a separate legal entity under the Companies Ordinance, providing your company with a permanent legal identity for statutory and administrative purposes.

Key Functions and Usage of a Company Registration Number

The company registration number Hong Kong companies receive plays an important role in both legal and operational aspects of running a business. It is more than just a number; instead, it is essential for maintaining compliance and credibility.

• Statutory Compliance: The company registration number is required for submitting annual returns, updating company information, and fulfilling other obligations with the Companies Registry.
• Official Use in Documents: The number must be included in legal contracts, business agreements, and filings to government departments and banks.
• Verification and Due Diligence: It enables clients, partners, and authorities to verify the company’s legal status and registration details.
• Permanent Corporate Identity: Unlike a company name, the company registration number does not change and remains the company’s consistent identifier throughout its existence.

Who Needs a CRN?

Only businesses formally incorporated in Hong Kong should receive a company registration number. This primarily includes private and public limited companies. Sole proprietorships and partnerships do not have a company registration number.

New Policy: Unique Business Identifier (UBI)

The Unique Business Identifier (UBI) is a new policy in Hong Kong that uses the business registration number as the single official identifier for all companies. Starting from December 27, 2023, the unique business identifier equals the business registration number, replacing the company registration number for most legal and government purposes. This change simplifies company identification, reduces confusion, and ensures that all businesses use the same number for filings, certificates, and regulatory processes.

Key Differences Between Business Registration Number and Company Registration Number in Hong Kong

Before comparing the two, it's important to recognise that both numbers are mandatory for incorporated companies, but their roles are distinct. The Intellectual Property Department has listed the simple differences between a business registration number and a company registration number and how they are applied.

Why Are Both Numbers Important for Hong Kong Businesses?

Both the business registration number and the company registration number are indispensable for operating a business in Hong Kong:

Bank Account Opening

When opening a business bank account in Hong Kong, banks require both numbers. The business registration number confirms your business’s tax registration in Hong Kong, while the company registration number means your company is officially incorporated and recognised by the Companies Registry.

Contract Signing

When signing contracts, both the business registration number and company registration number are usually included to confirm the legitimacy of your business. The company registration number means your company is a distinct legal entity, which is essential for enforceable agreements.

Government and Legal Procedures

Government agencies and legal professionals use both the numbers for compliance checks, licensing, and regulatory filings. The business registration number Hong Kong businesses use is required for tax and business license matters, while the company registration number means your company can fulfill statutory obligations and submit official documents.

Regulatory Compliance

Using the correct number in the right context is vital for regulatory compliance in Hong Kong. The business registration number and the company registration number help prevent administrative delays, legal disputes, and potential fines, ensuring your business remains in good standing with local authorities.

Take the Next Step: Your Guide to Registering a Local Business in Hong Kong

How to Get Your BRN and CRN in Hong Kong

• Obtain a Business Registration Number: Submit your business registration application to the IRD within 1 month of starting business operations. You can apply online or in person, and you must provide the required documents and pay the registration fee. Once approved, your BRN will be shown on your Business Registration Certificate.
• Obtain a Company Registration Number: When you incorporate a company with the Companies Registry, the CRN is automatically assigned and displayed on your Certificate of Incorporation. The application for incorporation and business registration can be completed together using the one-stop service.

Looking for an Office to Set Up Your Business in Hong Kong

Understanding the difference between the business registration number and the company registration number is essential for any company operating in Hong Kong. Knowing what the company registration number means and how it differs from the business registration number will help you stay compliant, avoid confusion, and ensure smooth business operations. If you need a registered business address or flexible office solutions to support your new venture, TEC offers services that can help you establish your presence and meet all registration requirements in Hong Kong.

TEC offers flexible workspace solutions to support your business registration in Hong Kong. Our Private Office provides a secure, fully serviced environment with premium amenities for teams needing a dedicated space, while the Virtual Office gives you a prestigious business address and essential support services without the need for a physical office which is ideal for remote businesses or those just entering the Hong Kong market. These solutions make it easier to obtain your business registration number and company registration number in Hong Kong.

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