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calculate profits tax liability",[],{"_key":1323,"_type":856,"children":1324,"markDefs":1329,"style":1001},"k185",[1325],{"_key":1326,"_type":860,"marks":1327,"text":1328},"k184",[961],"What Each Filing Actually Does",[],{"_key":1331,"_type":856,"children":1332,"markDefs":1341,"style":885},"k191",[1333,1337],{"_key":1334,"_type":860,"marks":1335,"text":1336},"k189",[961],"The Annual Return (NAR1) tells the Companies Registry who runs your company and who owns it.",{"_key":1338,"_type":860,"marks":1339,"text":1340},"k190",[]," The Profits Tax Return (BIR51) tells the Inland Revenue Department how much money your company made.",[],{"_key":1343,"_type":856,"children":1344,"markDefs":1353,"style":885},"k197",[1345,1349],{"_key":1346,"_type":860,"marks":1347,"text":1348},"k195",[],"A company that diligently files its profits tax return but neglects the Annual Return is still in breach of the Companies Ordinance. These are completely independent obligations — satisfying one does not discharge the other. ",{"_key":1350,"_type":860,"marks":1351,"text":1352},"k196",[961],"Both carry serious penalties for non-compliance, and both must be filed every year without exception.",[],{"_key":1355,"_type":856,"children":1356,"markDefs":1361,"style":1001},"k201",[1357],{"_key":1358,"_type":860,"marks":1359,"text":1360},"k200",[961],"What About Audited Financial Statements?",[],{"_key":1363,"_type":856,"children":1364,"markDefs":1373,"style":885},"k207",[1365,1369],{"_key":1366,"_type":860,"marks":1367,"text":1368},"k205",[],"A third document that causes confusion is the annual audit. Private limited companies in Hong Kong are required to have their accounts audited each year by a Certified Public Accountant (CPA). However, the audit report goes to the Inland Revenue Department as part of the tax filing — it is not attached to the NAR1 and is not submitted to the Companies Registry. ",{"_key":1370,"_type":860,"marks":1371,"text":1372},"k206",[961],"Private limited companies do not attach any financial statements to their Annual Return.",[],{"_key":1375,"_type":856,"children":1376,"markDefs":1408,"style":885},"k227",[1377,1381,1386,1391,1395,1399,1404],{"_key":1378,"_type":860,"marks":1379,"text":1380},"k220",[],"For a full understanding of your tax obligations alongside your Companies Registry compliance, our guide on",{"_key":1382,"_type":860,"marks":1383,"text":1385},"k221",[1384],"k209"," ",{"_key":1387,"_type":860,"marks":1388,"text":1390},"k222",[1389],"k211","corporate tax rates in Hong Kong",{"_key":1392,"_type":860,"marks":1393,"text":1394},"k223",[]," is an essential companion to this article. If you are still getting to grips with Hong Kong's tax identification system, the explainer on",{"_key":1396,"_type":860,"marks":1397,"text":1385},"k224",[1398],"k214",{"_key":1400,"_type":860,"marks":1401,"text":1403},"k225",[1402],"k216","Hong Kong tax ID for entrepreneurs",{"_key":1405,"_type":860,"marks":1406,"text":1407},"k226",[]," covers the BRN and related identifiers in detail.",[1409,1411,1412,1414],{"_key":1384,"_type":881,"externalUrl":1410,"linkType":359},"https:\u002F\u002Faspireapp.com\u002Fhk\u002Fblog\u002Fcorporate-tax-rate-in-hong-kong",{"_key":1389,"_type":881,"externalUrl":1410,"linkType":359},{"_key":1398,"_type":881,"externalUrl":1413,"linkType":359},"https:\u002F\u002Faspireapp.com\u002Fhk\u002Fblog\u002Fhong-kong-tax-id",{"_key":1402,"_type":881,"externalUrl":1413,"linkType":359},{"_key":1416,"_type":856,"children":1417,"markDefs":1422,"style":964},"k231",[1418],{"_key":1419,"_type":860,"marks":1420,"text":1421},"k230",[961],"Which Hong Kong Companies Must File an Annual Return?",[],{"_key":1424,"_type":856,"children":1425,"markDefs":1430,"style":1001},"k235",[1426],{"_key":1427,"_type":860,"marks":1428,"text":1429},"k234",[961],"Private Limited Companies",[],{"_key":1432,"_type":856,"children":1433,"markDefs":1451,"style":885},"k246",[1434,1438,1443,1447],{"_key":1435,"_type":860,"marks":1436,"text":1437},"k242",[961],"Every ",{"_key":1439,"_type":860,"marks":1440,"text":1442},"k243",[1441,961],"k237","Hong Kong private limited company",{"_key":1444,"_type":860,"marks":1445,"text":1446},"k244",[961]," must file an NAR1 annual return each year — regardless of size, revenue, industry, or operational status.",{"_key":1448,"_type":860,"marks":1449,"text":1450},"k245",[]," There are no exemptions based on turnover, headcount, trading activity, years since incorporation, or whether the company has made a profit. The obligation is universal and unconditional among incorporated limited companies.",[1452],{"_key":1441,"_type":881,"externalUrl":1453,"linkType":359},"https:\u002F\u002Faspireapp.com\u002Fhk\u002Fblog\u002Fhong-kong-private-limited-company",{"_key":1455,"_type":856,"children":1456,"markDefs":1469,"style":885},"k254",[1457,1461,1465],{"_key":1458,"_type":860,"marks":1459,"text":1460},"k251",[],"Under Section 662 of the Companies Ordinance, a Hong Kong private limited company must submit its NAR1 within 42 days of its incorporation anniversary date, accompanied by the prescribed registration fee. ",{"_key":1462,"_type":860,"marks":1463,"text":1464},"k252",[961],"Even if every detail of your company's information is identical to last year's — same directors, same shareholders, same address, same share capital — you cannot skip or defer the filing.",{"_key":1466,"_type":860,"marks":1467,"text":1468},"k253",[]," The Companies Registry has stated explicitly that it has no power to extend the statutory deadline, and no exemption applies to unchanged companies.",[],{"_key":1471,"_type":856,"children":1472,"markDefs":1477,"style":1001},"k258",[1473],{"_key":1474,"_type":860,"marks":1475,"text":1476},"k257",[961],"Dormant Companies in Hong Kong",[],{"_key":1479,"_type":856,"children":1480,"markDefs":1485,"style":885},"k262",[1481],{"_key":1482,"_type":860,"marks":1483,"text":1484},"k261",[961],"This is one of the highest-volume search queries on this topic, and the answer is unambiguous: a dormant company in Hong Kong must still file an Annual Return (NAR1) every year.",[],{"_key":1487,"_type":856,"children":1488,"markDefs":1493,"style":885},"k266",[1489],{"_key":1490,"_type":860,"marks":1491,"text":1492},"k265",[],"As long as the company remains a legally existing entity — meaning it has not been formally wound up or struck off the Companies Registry — the Annual Return obligation applies in full. Zero transactions, zero revenue, zero employees: none of these reduce or remove the obligation.",[],{"_key":1495,"_type":856,"children":1496,"markDefs":1505,"style":885},"k272",[1497,1501],{"_key":1498,"_type":860,"marks":1499,"text":1500},"k270",[961],"Declaring a company dormant — through a board resolution or a statutory dormancy declaration — does not suspend or eliminate the NAR1 requirement.",{"_key":1502,"_type":860,"marks":1503,"text":1504},"k271",[]," Under Hong Kong company law, the concept of \"dormancy\" relates primarily to accounting treatment and audit exemptions, not to Companies Registry filing obligations.",[],{"_key":1507,"_type":856,"children":1508,"markDefs":1513,"style":885},"k276",[1509],{"_key":1510,"_type":860,"marks":1511,"text":1512},"k275",[],"The only point at which the Annual Return obligation ceases for a dormant company is when it has been formally deregistered and struck off the Companies Registry. If you are weighing the cost of maintaining a dormant company (HK$105\u002Fyear in filing fees, plus any company secretary fees) against the cost of formally closing it, we recommend consulting a licensed TCSP or legal advisor. For most dormant companies where there is any possibility of reactivation, maintaining the entity on the register is the more practical and cost-effective choice.",[],{"_key":1515,"_type":856,"children":1516,"markDefs":1521,"style":1001},"k280",[1517],{"_key":1518,"_type":860,"marks":1519,"text":1520},"k279",[961],"Public Companies",[],{"_key":1523,"_type":856,"children":1524,"markDefs":1533,"style":885},"k286",[1525,1529],{"_key":1526,"_type":860,"marks":1527,"text":1528},"k284",[],"Listed companies and larger public corporations are required to file an Annual Return each year, but with a broader scope. ",{"_key":1530,"_type":860,"marks":1531,"text":1532},"k285",[961],"The Annual Return for a public company must be accompanied by financial statements, a directors' report, and an auditor's report.",[],{"_key":1535,"_type":856,"children":1536,"markDefs":1541,"style":885},"k290",[1537],{"_key":1538,"_type":860,"marks":1539,"text":1540},"k289",[],"The Annual Return date for a public company is also calculated differently — it is the date falling six months after the end of the accounting reference period, not the incorporation anniversary. Filing must still be completed within 42 days of that date.",[],{"_key":1543,"_type":856,"children":1544,"markDefs":1549,"style":1001},"k294",[1545],{"_key":1546,"_type":860,"marks":1547,"text":1548},"k293",[961],"Companies Limited by Guarantee",[],{"_key":1551,"_type":856,"children":1552,"markDefs":1578,"style":885},"k310",[1553,1557,1561,1565,1569,1574],{"_key":1554,"_type":860,"marks":1555,"text":1556},"k304",[],"Companies limited by guarantee — which include charitable organisations, registered non-profit associations, professional bodies, and industry trade associations — are equally subject to the annual filing requirement. ",{"_key":1558,"_type":860,"marks":1559,"text":1560},"k305",[961],"This is a frequently overlooked obligation for NGOs and membership organisations in Hong Kong.",{"_key":1562,"_type":860,"marks":1563,"text":1564},"k306",[]," For those establishing a non-profit entity, our guide on",{"_key":1566,"_type":860,"marks":1567,"text":1385},"k307",[1568],"k298",{"_key":1570,"_type":860,"marks":1571,"text":1573},"k308",[1572],"k300","how to set up an NGO in Hong Kong",{"_key":1575,"_type":860,"marks":1576,"text":1577},"k309",[]," covers the compliance obligations applicable to guarantee companies.",[1579,1581],{"_key":1568,"_type":881,"externalUrl":1580,"linkType":359},"https:\u002F\u002Faspireapp.com\u002Fhk\u002Fblog\u002Fhow-to-set-up-ngo",{"_key":1572,"_type":881,"externalUrl":1580,"linkType":359},{"_key":1583,"_type":856,"children":1584,"markDefs":1589,"style":1001},"k314",[1585],{"_key":1586,"_type":860,"marks":1587,"text":1588},"k313",[961],"Non-Hong Kong Companies Registered in Hong Kong",[],{"_key":1591,"_type":856,"children":1592,"markDefs":1605,"style":885},"k322",[1593,1597,1601],{"_key":1594,"_type":860,"marks":1595,"text":1596},"k319",[],"Foreign companies that have established a place of business in Hong Kong and registered with the Companies Registry under Part 16 of the Companies Ordinance are not exempt. ",{"_key":1598,"_type":860,"marks":1599,"text":1600},"k320",[961],"Even if your parent entity is incorporated in the Cayman Islands, the British Virgin Islands, the UK, Singapore, or elsewhere — your Hong Kong-registered branch must comply with local annual filing requirements.",{"_key":1602,"_type":860,"marks":1603,"text":1604},"k321",[]," Specific filing requirements for non-Hong Kong companies differ from locally incorporated entities; consult the Companies Registry or a licensed TCSP for entity-specific guidance.",[],{"_key":1607,"_type":856,"children":1608,"markDefs":1613,"style":964},"k326",[1609],{"_key":1610,"_type":860,"marks":1611,"text":1612},"k325",[961],"What Changed in the 2026 NAR1 Form?",[],{"_key":1615,"_type":856,"children":1616,"markDefs":1621,"style":1001},"k330",[1617],{"_key":1618,"_type":860,"marks":1619,"text":1620},"k329",[961],"The Transition Is Complete — Only the New Form Is Accepted",[],{"_key":1623,"_type":856,"children":1624,"markDefs":1633,"style":885},"k336",[1625,1629],{"_key":1626,"_type":860,"marks":1627,"text":1628},"k334",[961],"The updated NAR1 form has been mandatory since 27 June 2024. The Companies Registry will not accept any filing on the old form — regardless of how carefully it was completed.",{"_key":1630,"_type":860,"marks":1631,"text":1632},"k335",[]," Always download the form fresh from the Companies Registry's official website immediately before each filing. Do not use a saved version from a previous year, a scanned copy from a colleague, or any third-party source.",[],{"_key":1635,"_type":856,"children":1636,"markDefs":1641,"style":885},"k340",[1637],{"_key":1638,"_type":860,"marks":1639,"text":1640},"k339",[],"There are two significant changes every filer must understand:",[],{"_key":1643,"_type":856,"children":1644,"markDefs":1649,"style":1001},"k344",[1645],{"_key":1646,"_type":860,"marks":1647,"text":1648},"k343",[961],"Change 1: Business Registration Number (BRN) Replaces Company Number",[],{"_key":1651,"_type":856,"children":1652,"markDefs":1665,"style":885},"k352",[1653,1657,1661],{"_key":1654,"_type":860,"marks":1655,"text":1656},"k349",[],"The old NAR1 used the Company Registration Number (CR Number) as the primary identifier. ",{"_key":1658,"_type":860,"marks":1659,"text":1660},"k350",[961],"The updated form now requires the Business Registration Number (BRN) — specifically, only the first eight digits — issued by the Business Registration Office of the Inland Revenue Department.",{"_key":1662,"_type":860,"marks":1663,"text":1664},"k351",[]," This eight-digit number serves as your company's Unique Business Identifier (UBI) and is printed on your Business Registration Certificate.",[],{"_key":1667,"_type":856,"children":1668,"markDefs":1673,"style":885},"k356",[1669],{"_key":1670,"_type":860,"marks":1671,"text":1672},"k355",[961],"Two errors are extremely common in this field:",[],{"_key":1675,"_type":856,"children":1676,"level":1097,"listItem":1681,"markDefs":1682,"style":885},"k360",[1677],{"_key":1678,"_type":860,"marks":1679,"text":1680},"k359",[],"Entering the full 10-digit BRN rather than just the first eight digits","bullet",[],{"_key":1684,"_type":856,"children":1685,"level":1097,"listItem":1681,"markDefs":1690,"style":885},"k364",[1686],{"_key":1687,"_type":860,"marks":1688,"text":1689},"k363",[],"Entering the old CR Company Registration Number, which is no longer valid here",[],{"_key":1692,"_type":856,"children":1693,"markDefs":1711,"style":885},"k376",[1694,1698,1702,1707],{"_key":1695,"_type":860,"marks":1696,"text":1697},"k372",[],"Either mistake will result in the form being returned. If this happens close to your deadline, you may cross into late-filing territory and owe significantly higher fees. Always locate your Business Registration Certificate and verify the correct number before you begin. Our guide on",{"_key":1699,"_type":860,"marks":1700,"text":1385},"k373",[1701],"k366",{"_key":1703,"_type":860,"marks":1704,"text":1706},"k374",[1705],"k368","CR registration number vs BR number",{"_key":1708,"_type":860,"marks":1709,"text":1710},"k375",[]," explains the distinction in plain terms.",[1712,1714],{"_key":1701,"_type":881,"externalUrl":1713,"linkType":359},"https:\u002F\u002Faspireapp.com\u002Fhk\u002Fblog\u002Fcr-registration-number",{"_key":1705,"_type":881,"externalUrl":1713,"linkType":359},{"_key":1716,"_type":856,"children":1717,"markDefs":1722,"style":1001},"k380",[1718],{"_key":1719,"_type":860,"marks":1720,"text":1721},"k379",[961],"Change 2: Business Nature Code Field Added",[],{"_key":1724,"_type":856,"children":1725,"markDefs":1734,"style":885},"k386",[1726,1730],{"_key":1727,"_type":860,"marks":1728,"text":1729},"k384",[961],"The updated NAR1 requires all companies to select a Business Nature Code from an official classification list published by the Companies Registry.",{"_key":1731,"_type":860,"marks":1732,"text":1733},"k385",[]," This code categorises your company's primary business activity. The full list — the \"Business Nature Code and Description Table\" — is available as a PDF on the Companies Registry's specified forms page.",[],{"_key":1736,"_type":856,"children":1737,"markDefs":1750,"style":885},"k394",[1738,1742,1746],{"_key":1739,"_type":860,"marks":1740,"text":1741},"k391",[],"This classification aligns with the Hong Kong Standard Industrial Classification (HSIC) framework. If your company operates across multiple business lines, select the code that most accurately reflects your ",{"_key":1743,"_type":860,"marks":1744,"text":1745},"k392",[961],"principal",{"_key":1747,"_type":860,"marks":1748,"text":1749},"k393",[]," activity — the one generating the majority of your revenue or representing the primary use of your resources.",[],{"_key":1752,"_type":856,"children":1753,"markDefs":1771,"style":885},"k406",[1754,1758,1762,1767],{"_key":1755,"_type":860,"marks":1756,"text":1757},"k402",[],"Selecting an irrelevant code is a common reason for returns. A financial advisory firm should not select a wholesale trade code, even if it occasionally sells related products. Cross-reference your registered business description against the official code table before filing. Our guide on",{"_key":1759,"_type":860,"marks":1760,"text":1385},"k403",[1761],"k396",{"_key":1763,"_type":860,"marks":1764,"text":1766},"k404",[1765],"k398","HSIC codes for business classification in Hong Kong",{"_key":1768,"_type":860,"marks":1769,"text":1770},"k405",[]," explains how to navigate this system.",[1772,1774],{"_key":1761,"_type":881,"externalUrl":1773,"linkType":359},"https:\u002F\u002Faspireapp.com\u002Fhk\u002Fblog\u002Fhsic-code",{"_key":1765,"_type":881,"externalUrl":1773,"linkType":359},{"_key":1776,"_type":856,"children":1777,"markDefs":1782,"style":964},"k410",[1778],{"_key":1779,"_type":860,"marks":1780,"text":1781},"k409",[961],"What Information Does the NAR1 Require?",[],{"_key":1784,"_type":856,"children":1785,"markDefs":1790,"style":1001},"k414",[1786],{"_key":1787,"_type":860,"marks":1788,"text":1789},"k413",[961],"Fields Required for Private Limited Companies",[],{"_key":1792,"_type":856,"children":1793,"markDefs":1798,"style":885},"k418",[1794],{"_key":1795,"_type":860,"marks":1796,"text":1797},"k417",[961],"Review every field carefully before submission. An error or inconsistency in any single field can trigger a return request — and a returned filing may arrive back too late to refile within the 42-day window.",[],{"_key":1800,"_type":1088,"columnHeaders":1801,"hasColumnTitles":129,"hasRowTitles":142,"rows":1808},"k419",[1802,1805],{"_key":1803,"_type":1092,"cellIndex":1093,"title":1804},"k420","Field",{"_key":1806,"_type":1092,"cellIndex":1097,"title":1807},"k421","Details Required",[1809,1834,1859,1884,1909,1934,1959,1984,2009,2034],{"_key":1810,"_type":1106,"cells":1811},"k422",[1812,1823],{"_key":1813,"_type":1110,"content":1814},"k423",[1815],{"_key":1816,"_type":856,"children":1817,"markDefs":1822,"style":885},"k494",[1818],{"_key":1819,"_type":860,"marks":1820,"text":1821},"k493",[961],"Company Name",[],{"_key":1824,"_type":1110,"content":1825},"k426",[1826],{"_key":1827,"_type":856,"children":1828,"markDefs":1833,"style":885},"k497",[1829],{"_key":1830,"_type":860,"marks":1831,"text":1832},"k496",[],"Full English and\u002For Chinese name exactly as registered — no abbreviations",[],{"_key":1835,"_type":1106,"cells":1836},"k429",[1837,1848],{"_key":1838,"_type":1110,"content":1839},"k430",[1840],{"_key":1841,"_type":856,"children":1842,"markDefs":1847,"style":885},"k500",[1843],{"_key":1844,"_type":860,"marks":1845,"text":1846},"k499",[961],"Business Registration Number (BRN)",[],{"_key":1849,"_type":1110,"content":1850},"k433",[1851],{"_key":1852,"_type":856,"children":1853,"markDefs":1858,"style":885},"k503",[1854],{"_key":1855,"_type":860,"marks":1856,"text":1857},"k502",[],"First 8 digits only; no punctuation, currency symbols, spaces, or extra digits",[],{"_key":1860,"_type":1106,"cells":1861},"k436",[1862,1873],{"_key":1863,"_type":1110,"content":1864},"k437",[1865],{"_key":1866,"_type":856,"children":1867,"markDefs":1872,"style":885},"k506",[1868],{"_key":1869,"_type":860,"marks":1870,"text":1871},"k505",[961],"Annual Return Date",[],{"_key":1874,"_type":1110,"content":1875},"k440",[1876],{"_key":1877,"_type":856,"children":1878,"markDefs":1883,"style":885},"k509",[1879],{"_key":1880,"_type":860,"marks":1881,"text":1882},"k508",[],"The company's incorporation anniversary date for the relevant year",[],{"_key":1885,"_type":1106,"cells":1886},"k443",[1887,1898],{"_key":1888,"_type":1110,"content":1889},"k444",[1890],{"_key":1891,"_type":856,"children":1892,"markDefs":1897,"style":885},"k512",[1893],{"_key":1894,"_type":860,"marks":1895,"text":1896},"k511",[961],"Registered Office Address",[],{"_key":1899,"_type":1110,"content":1900},"k447",[1901],{"_key":1902,"_type":856,"children":1903,"markDefs":1908,"style":885},"k515",[1904],{"_key":1905,"_type":860,"marks":1906,"text":1907},"k514",[],"The Hong Kong address at which the company officially receives statutory communications",[],{"_key":1910,"_type":1106,"cells":1911},"k450",[1912,1923],{"_key":1913,"_type":1110,"content":1914},"k451",[1915],{"_key":1916,"_type":856,"children":1917,"markDefs":1922,"style":885},"k518",[1918],{"_key":1919,"_type":860,"marks":1920,"text":1921},"k517",[961],"Company Secretary Details",[],{"_key":1924,"_type":1110,"content":1925},"k454",[1926],{"_key":1927,"_type":856,"children":1928,"markDefs":1933,"style":885},"k521",[1929],{"_key":1930,"_type":860,"marks":1931,"text":1932},"k520",[],"Full name and correspondence address — individual or corporate entity",[],{"_key":1935,"_type":1106,"cells":1936},"k457",[1937,1948],{"_key":1938,"_type":1110,"content":1939},"k458",[1940],{"_key":1941,"_type":856,"children":1942,"markDefs":1947,"style":885},"k524",[1943],{"_key":1944,"_type":860,"marks":1945,"text":1946},"k523",[961],"Director 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shareholder",[],{"_key":1985,"_type":1106,"cells":1986},"k471",[1987,1998],{"_key":1988,"_type":1110,"content":1989},"k472",[1990],{"_key":1991,"_type":856,"children":1992,"markDefs":1997,"style":885},"k536",[1993],{"_key":1994,"_type":860,"marks":1995,"text":1996},"k535",[961],"Share Capital Structure",[],{"_key":1999,"_type":1110,"content":2000},"k475",[2001],{"_key":2002,"_type":856,"children":2003,"markDefs":2008,"style":885},"k539",[2004],{"_key":2005,"_type":860,"marks":2006,"text":2007},"k538",[],"Class, number, and nominal value (if applicable) of all issued shares as at the Annual Return date",[],{"_key":2010,"_type":1106,"cells":2011},"k478",[2012,2023],{"_key":2013,"_type":1110,"content":2014},"k479",[2015],{"_key":2016,"_type":856,"children":2017,"markDefs":2022,"style":885},"k542",[2018],{"_key":2019,"_type":860,"marks":2020,"text":2021},"k541",[961],"Total Mortgages and Charges",[],{"_key":2024,"_type":1110,"content":2025},"k482",[2026],{"_key":2027,"_type":856,"children":2028,"markDefs":2033,"style":885},"k545",[2029],{"_key":2030,"_type":860,"marks":2031,"text":2032},"k544",[],"Aggregate outstanding secured liabilities registered against the company as at the Annual Return date",[],{"_key":2035,"_type":1106,"cells":2036},"k485",[2037,2048],{"_key":2038,"_type":1110,"content":2039},"k486",[2040],{"_key":2041,"_type":856,"children":2042,"markDefs":2047,"style":885},"k548",[2043],{"_key":2044,"_type":860,"marks":2045,"text":2046},"k547",[961],"Business Nature Code",[],{"_key":2049,"_type":1110,"content":2050},"k489",[2051],{"_key":2052,"_type":856,"children":2053,"markDefs":2058,"style":885},"k551",[2054],{"_key":2055,"_type":860,"marks":2056,"text":2057},"k550",[],"Selected from the official Companies Registry classification list (mandatory since June 2024)",[],{"_key":2060,"_type":856,"children":2061,"markDefs":2066,"style":1001},"k555",[2062],{"_key":2063,"_type":860,"marks":2064,"text":2065},"k554",[961],"What Private Companies Do NOT Need to Attach",[],{"_key":2068,"_type":856,"children":2069,"markDefs":2078,"style":885},"k561",[2070,2074],{"_key":2071,"_type":860,"marks":2072,"text":2073},"k559",[961],"Private limited companies are not required to attach financial statements, profit-and-loss accounts, balance sheets, or cash flow statements to the NAR1.",{"_key":2075,"_type":860,"marks":2076,"text":2077},"k560",[]," These belong to the tax filing and audit processes administered by the Inland Revenue Department. Only public companies and guarantee companies must include financial documents with their Annual Return.",[],{"_key":2080,"_type":856,"children":2081,"markDefs":2112,"style":885},"k581",[2082,2086,2090,2095,2099,2103,2108],{"_key":2083,"_type":860,"marks":2084,"text":2085},"k574",[],"For companies with complex ownership structures — nominee directors, layered shareholding, or cross-border ownership — our guides on",{"_key":2087,"_type":860,"marks":2088,"text":1385},"k575",[2089],"k563",{"_key":2091,"_type":860,"marks":2092,"text":2094},"k576",[2093],"k565","nominee directors in Hong Kong",{"_key":2096,"_type":860,"marks":2097,"text":2098},"k577",[]," and",{"_key":2100,"_type":860,"marks":2101,"text":1385},"k578",[2102],"k568",{"_key":2104,"_type":860,"marks":2105,"text":2107},"k579",[2106],"k570","Ultimate Beneficial Owners (UBO)",{"_key":2109,"_type":860,"marks":2110,"text":2111},"k580",[]," explain the disclosure obligations that interact directly with your Annual Return.",[2113,2115,2116,2118],{"_key":2089,"_type":881,"externalUrl":2114,"linkType":359},"https:\u002F\u002Faspireapp.com\u002Fhk\u002Fblog\u002Fnominee-director",{"_key":2093,"_type":881,"externalUrl":2114,"linkType":359},{"_key":2102,"_type":881,"externalUrl":2117,"linkType":359},"https:\u002F\u002Faspireapp.com\u002Fhk\u002Fblog\u002Fultimate-beneficial-owners-ubo",{"_key":2106,"_type":881,"externalUrl":2117,"linkType":359},{"_key":2120,"_type":856,"children":2121,"markDefs":2126,"style":964},"k585",[2122],{"_key":2123,"_type":860,"marks":2124,"text":2125},"k584",[961],"How to File the Annual Return: Step-by-Step",[],{"_key":2128,"_type":856,"children":2129,"markDefs":2134,"style":1001},"k589",[2130],{"_key":2131,"_type":860,"marks":2132,"text":2133},"k588",[961],"Method 1: Electronic Filing via e-Registry (Strongly Recommended)",[],{"_key":2136,"_type":856,"children":2137,"markDefs":2146,"style":885},"k595",[2138,2142],{"_key":2139,"_type":860,"marks":2140,"text":2141},"k593",[961],"Electronic filing through the Companies Registry's e-Registry portal is the fastest, most reliable method — and the one we strongly recommend for virtually all Hong Kong companies.",{"_key":2143,"_type":860,"marks":2144,"text":2145},"k594",[]," The system is available 24 hours a day, 365 days a year. It generates an immediate digital confirmation receipt and provides real-time error-checking before your submission is finalised.",[],{"_key":2148,"_type":856,"children":2149,"markDefs":2154,"style":885},"k599",[2150],{"_key":2151,"_type":860,"marks":2152,"text":2153},"k598",[961],"How to file via e-Registry:",[],{"_key":2156,"_type":856,"children":2157,"level":1097,"listItem":1681,"markDefs":2162,"style":885},"k603",[2158],{"_key":2159,"_type":860,"marks":2160,"text":2161},"k602",[],"Navigate to the Companies Registry e-Registry portal via the official Companies Registry website",[],{"_key":2164,"_type":856,"children":2165,"level":1097,"listItem":1681,"markDefs":2170,"style":885},"k607",[2166],{"_key":2167,"_type":860,"marks":2168,"text":2169},"k606",[],"Log in using your company account credentials. First-time users must complete a one-time registration — allow extra time for this",[],{"_key":2172,"_type":856,"children":2173,"level":1097,"listItem":1681,"markDefs":2182,"style":885},"k613",[2174,2178],{"_key":2175,"_type":860,"marks":2176,"text":2177},"k611",[],"Select \"Submit Annual Return.\" The system will pre-populate certain company details from existing records. ",{"_key":2179,"_type":860,"marks":2180,"text":2181},"k612",[961],"Do not assume these are correct — review every pre-filled field individually",[],{"_key":2184,"_type":856,"children":2185,"level":1097,"listItem":1681,"markDefs":2190,"style":885},"k617",[2186],{"_key":2187,"_type":860,"marks":2188,"text":2189},"k616",[],"Complete all required fields manually. Pay particular attention to the BRN (first 8 digits only) and the Business Nature Code (from the official list)",[],{"_key":2192,"_type":856,"children":2193,"level":1097,"listItem":1681,"markDefs":2198,"style":885},"k621",[2194],{"_key":2195,"_type":860,"marks":2196,"text":2197},"k620",[],"Select your preferred payment method: major credit cards, PPS (PayEasy), or approved e-wallet platforms",[],{"_key":2200,"_type":856,"children":2201,"level":1097,"listItem":1681,"markDefs":2214,"style":885},"k629",[2202,2206,2210],{"_key":2203,"_type":860,"marks":2204,"text":2205},"k626",[],"Submit and ",{"_key":2207,"_type":860,"marks":2208,"text":2209},"k627",[961],"save your confirmation receipt immediately",{"_key":2211,"_type":860,"marks":2212,"text":2213},"k628",[]," — this is your legal proof of timely filing",[],{"_key":2216,"_type":856,"children":2217,"markDefs":2226,"style":885},"k635",[2218,2222],{"_key":2219,"_type":860,"marks":2220,"text":2221},"k633",[961],"Why e-Registry reduces risk:",{"_key":2223,"_type":860,"marks":2224,"text":2225},"k634",[]," The system validates your entries before finalising your submission — catching formatting errors, blank mandatory fields, and share capital mismatches in real time. A returned paper form may arrive back too late to refile within the 42-day window. The e-Registry's error detection removes that risk almost entirely.",[],{"_key":2228,"_type":856,"children":2229,"markDefs":2234,"style":1001},"k639",[2230],{"_key":2231,"_type":860,"marks":2232,"text":2233},"k638",[961],"Method 2: Paper Filing (By Post or In Person)",[],{"_key":2236,"_type":856,"children":2237,"markDefs":2242,"style":885},"k643",[2238],{"_key":2239,"_type":860,"marks":2240,"text":2241},"k642",[],"Paper filing is still permitted but carries inherently greater risk, particularly when filing close to the deadline.",[],{"_key":2244,"_type":856,"children":2245,"markDefs":2250,"style":885},"k647",[2246],{"_key":2247,"_type":860,"marks":2248,"text":2249},"k646",[961],"How to file by paper:",[],{"_key":2252,"_type":856,"children":2253,"level":1097,"listItem":1681,"markDefs":2258,"style":885},"k651",[2254],{"_key":2255,"_type":860,"marks":2256,"text":2257},"k650",[],"Download the current NAR1 form directly from the Companies Registry's official website. Confirm the version date is after 27 June 2024",[],{"_key":2260,"_type":856,"children":2261,"level":1097,"listItem":1681,"markDefs":2266,"style":885},"k655",[2262],{"_key":2263,"_type":860,"marks":2264,"text":2265},"k654",[],"Complete all fields in English or Chinese — no punctuation, currency symbols, or thousand-separator commas in numeric fields",[],{"_key":2268,"_type":856,"children":2269,"level":1097,"listItem":1681,"markDefs":2274,"style":885},"k659",[2270],{"_key":2271,"_type":860,"marks":2272,"text":2273},"k658",[],"Have the form signed by a director or the company secretary — original wet-ink signature only; electronic signatures are not accepted on paper forms",[],{"_key":2276,"_type":856,"children":2277,"level":1097,"listItem":1681,"markDefs":2290,"style":885},"k667",[2278,2282,2286],{"_key":2279,"_type":860,"marks":2280,"text":2281},"k664",[],"Prepare a Hong Kong dollar crossed cheque payable to \"Companies Registry\" in the ",{"_key":2283,"_type":860,"marks":2284,"text":2285},"k665",[961],"exact",{"_key":2287,"_type":860,"marks":2288,"text":2289},"k666",[]," amount of the applicable fee",[],{"_key":2292,"_type":856,"children":2293,"level":1097,"listItem":1681,"markDefs":2302,"style":885},"k673",[2294,2298],{"_key":2295,"_type":860,"marks":2296,"text":2297},"k671",[],"Deliver by post or in person to: ",{"_key":2299,"_type":860,"marks":2300,"text":2301},"k672",[961],"Companies Registry, 14th Floor, Queensway Government Offices, 66 Queensway, Admiralty, Hong Kong",[],{"_key":2304,"_type":856,"children":2305,"markDefs":2322,"style":885},"k683",[2306,2310,2314,2318],{"_key":2307,"_type":860,"marks":2308,"text":2309},"k679",[961],"A filing is considered received only when it physically arrives at the Companies Registry — not when you post it.",{"_key":2311,"_type":860,"marks":2312,"text":2313},"k680",[]," If your envelope is delayed in transit and arrives after day 42, you will be treated as a late filer and will owe the escalated fee, regardless of when you sent it. ",{"_key":2315,"_type":860,"marks":2316,"text":2317},"k681",[961],"If you are within the final five to seven days of your filing window, switch to e-Registry or deliver in person.",{"_key":2319,"_type":860,"marks":2320,"text":2321},"k682",[]," Do not take the postal risk.",[],{"_key":2324,"_type":856,"children":2325,"markDefs":2330,"style":964},"k687",[2326],{"_key":2327,"_type":860,"marks":2328,"text":2329},"k686",[961],"Five Common NAR1 Filing Mistakes to Avoid",[],{"_key":2332,"_type":856,"children":2333,"markDefs":2342,"style":885},"k693",[2334,2338],{"_key":2335,"_type":860,"marks":2336,"text":2337},"k691",[961],"Filing errors are the primary reason Annual Returns are returned — and a returned filing can easily tip you into late-filing territory, triggering penalties that are entirely avoidable.",{"_key":2339,"_type":860,"marks":2340,"text":2341},"k692",[]," Here are the five most frequently encountered mistakes, and exactly how to avoid each one:",[],{"_key":2344,"_type":856,"children":2345,"markDefs":2350,"style":1001},"k697",[2346],{"_key":2347,"_type":860,"marks":2348,"text":2349},"k696",[961],"Mistake 1: Wrong Company Identifier — Old CR Number Instead of BRN",[],{"_key":2352,"_type":856,"children":2353,"markDefs":2366,"style":885},"k705",[2354,2358,2362],{"_key":2355,"_type":860,"marks":2356,"text":2357},"k702",[],"Since 27 June 2024, ",{"_key":2359,"_type":860,"marks":2360,"text":2361},"k703",[961],"the only valid identifier in the NAR1 is the first eight digits of the Business Registration Number (BRN) from the Inland Revenue Department.",{"_key":2363,"_type":860,"marks":2364,"text":2365},"k704",[]," The old Company Registration Number is no longer accepted. If you are unsure which number to use, find your Business Registration Certificate — the BRN is printed clearly on it. Enter the first eight digits and omit the rest.",[],{"_key":2368,"_type":856,"children":2369,"markDefs":2374,"style":1001},"k709",[2370],{"_key":2371,"_type":860,"marks":2372,"text":2373},"k708",[961],"Mistake 2: Punctuation or Currency Symbols in Numeric Fields",[],{"_key":2376,"_type":856,"children":2377,"markDefs":2386,"style":885},"k715",[2378,2382],{"_key":2379,"_type":860,"marks":2380,"text":2381},"k713",[961],"All numeric fields must contain Arabic numerals only.",{"_key":2383,"_type":860,"marks":2384,"text":2385},"k714",[]," No \"HK$\", no \"HKD\", no comma separators, no full stops. If your share capital is HK$10,000, enter \"10000\" — not \"HK$10,000\" or \"10,000\". These formatting additions — however logical they seem — are treated as data errors and will result in the form being returned.",[],{"_key":2388,"_type":856,"children":2389,"markDefs":2394,"style":1001},"k719",[2390],{"_key":2391,"_type":860,"marks":2392,"text":2393},"k718",[961],"Mistake 3: Share Capital and Shareholder Totals Don't Match",[],{"_key":2396,"_type":856,"children":2397,"markDefs":2406,"style":885},"k725",[2398,2402],{"_key":2399,"_type":860,"marks":2400,"text":2401},"k723",[961],"The total issued shares declared in the share capital section must precisely equal the sum of all shares listed against individual shareholders.",{"_key":2403,"_type":860,"marks":2404,"text":2405},"k724",[]," If your company has issued 10,000 shares but your shareholder table totals only 9,000 across all holders, the 1,000-share discrepancy will trigger a return. Before submitting, cross-check your current share register — including any transfers, new issues, or buybacks during the year — against the figures you are entering.",[],{"_key":2408,"_type":856,"children":2409,"markDefs":2414,"style":1001},"k729",[2410],{"_key":2411,"_type":860,"marks":2412,"text":2413},"k728",[961],"Mistake 4: Using an Outdated Version of the Form",[],{"_key":2416,"_type":856,"children":2417,"markDefs":2426,"style":885},"k735",[2418,2422],{"_key":2419,"_type":860,"marks":2420,"text":2421},"k733",[961],"Always download the NAR1 fresh from the Companies Registry's official website before every filing.",{"_key":2423,"_type":860,"marks":2424,"text":2425},"k734",[]," The form was updated in June 2024, and any submission on the old version will be rejected outright — including copies from prior year filings, scanned versions shared between colleagues, and templates from third-party providers. The current form is free to download directly from the source.",[],{"_key":2428,"_type":856,"children":2429,"markDefs":2434,"style":1001},"k739",[2430],{"_key":2431,"_type":860,"marks":2432,"text":2433},"k738",[961],"Mistake 5: Selecting the Wrong Business Nature Code",[],{"_key":2436,"_type":856,"children":2437,"markDefs":2459,"style":885},"k753",[2438,2442,2446,2450,2455],{"_key":2439,"_type":860,"marks":2440,"text":2441},"k748",[961],"The Business Nature Code must come from the official Companies Registry classification list and must accurately reflect your company's principal business activity.",{"_key":2443,"_type":860,"marks":2444,"text":2445},"k749",[]," Selecting a code from the wrong industry category — or using a free-text description — is grounds for the form to be returned. Cross-reference the business description on your Business Registration Certificate against the official code table before completing this field. When in doubt, consult your company secretary or a licensed TCSP. 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Our guide on",{"_key":3723,"_type":860,"marks":3724,"text":1385},"k1393",[3725],"k1385",{"_key":3727,"_type":860,"marks":3728,"text":3730},"k1394",[3729],"k1387","sole proprietorship in Hong Kong",{"_key":3732,"_type":860,"marks":3733,"text":3734},"k1395",[]," covers the compliance obligations specific to that structure.",[3736,3738],{"_key":3725,"_type":881,"externalUrl":3737,"linkType":359},"https:\u002F\u002Faspireapp.com\u002Fhk\u002Fblog\u002Fsole-proprietorship",{"_key":3729,"_type":881,"externalUrl":3737,"linkType":359},{"_key":3740,"_type":856,"children":3741,"markDefs":3746,"style":1001},"k1400",[3742],{"_key":3743,"_type":860,"marks":3744,"text":3745},"k1399",[961],"Q: Is the Annual Return the Same as an Annual General Meeting (AGM)?",[],{"_key":3748,"_type":856,"children":3749,"markDefs":3766,"style":885},"k1410",[3750,3754,3758,3762],{"_key":3751,"_type":860,"marks":3752,"text":3753},"k1406",[961],"No — these are completely separate requirements.",{"_key":3755,"_type":860,"marks":3756,"text":3757},"k1407",[]," An AGM is a shareholders' meeting. The Annual Return is a document filed with the Companies Registry. ",{"_key":3759,"_type":860,"marks":3760,"text":3761},"k1408",[961],"Under the current Companies Ordinance, private limited companies in Hong Kong are no longer required to hold an AGM.",{"_key":3763,"_type":860,"marks":3764,"text":3765},"k1409",[]," The Annual Return obligation, however, remains fully in force. The abolition of the mandatory AGM has no bearing on the NAR1 filing requirement.",[],{"_key":3768,"_type":856,"children":3769,"markDefs":3774,"style":1001},"k1414",[3770],{"_key":3771,"_type":860,"marks":3772,"text":3773},"k1413",[961],"Q: Does a Newly Incorporated Company Need to File in Its First Year?",[],{"_key":3776,"_type":856,"children":3777,"markDefs":3794,"style":885},"k1424",[3778,3782,3786,3790],{"_key":3779,"_type":860,"marks":3780,"text":3781},"k1420",[961],"Yes — from the very first incorporation anniversary date.",{"_key":3783,"_type":860,"marks":3784,"text":3785},"k1421",[]," There is no first-year grace period, no threshold below which the requirement is suspended, and no exemption for new companies. ",{"_key":3787,"_type":860,"marks":3788,"text":3789},"k1422",[961],"This is one of the most common and costly misconceptions among new Hong Kong founders.",{"_key":3791,"_type":860,"marks":3792,"text":3793},"k1423",[]," Set a calendar reminder on the day of incorporation for the same date the following year, with adequate lead time to prepare.",[],{"_key":3796,"_type":856,"children":3797,"markDefs":3802,"style":1001},"k1428",[3798],{"_key":3799,"_type":860,"marks":3800,"text":3801},"k1427",[961],"Q: Can I File the Annual Return Before the Anniversary Date?",[],{"_key":3804,"_type":856,"children":3805,"markDefs":3813,"style":885},"k1434",[3806,3809],{"_key":3807,"_type":860,"marks":3808,"text":3717},"k1432",[961],{"_key":3810,"_type":860,"marks":3811,"text":3812},"k1433",[]," The NAR1 must accurately reflect the company's structure as at the incorporation anniversary date — so it cannot be submitted before that date arrives. You can prepare all the information in advance, then file via e-Registry on the anniversary date itself. This is the most efficient approach.",[],{"_key":3815,"_type":856,"children":3816,"markDefs":3821,"style":1001},"k1438",[3817],{"_key":3818,"_type":860,"marks":3819,"text":3820},"k1437",[961],"Q: I Found an Error After Filing. Can I Amend the Annual Return?",[],{"_key":3823,"_type":856,"children":3824,"markDefs":3833,"style":885},"k1444",[3825,3829],{"_key":3826,"_type":860,"marks":3827,"text":3828},"k1442",[961],"Not by resubmitting the NAR1.",{"_key":3830,"_type":860,"marks":3831,"text":3832},"k1443",[]," Once accepted, the Annual Return cannot be directly amended. If you discover an error — incorrect director details, wrong shareholder name, inaccurate address — you must file a separate statutory change notification form to correct that specific record. For example, Form ND2A is used for director changes. The Annual Return remains on record as originally filed; the correction is registered via the relevant notification form.",[],{"_key":3835,"_type":856,"children":3836,"markDefs":3841,"style":1001},"k1448",[3837],{"_key":3838,"_type":860,"marks":3839,"text":3840},"k1447",[961],"Q: As the Sole Director and Sole Shareholder, Can I Sign the NAR1 Myself?",[],{"_key":3843,"_type":856,"children":3844,"markDefs":3853,"style":885},"k1454",[3845,3849],{"_key":3846,"_type":860,"marks":3847,"text":3848},"k1452",[961],"Yes.",{"_key":3850,"_type":860,"marks":3851,"text":3852},"k1453",[]," The NAR1 must be signed by a director or the company secretary. If you are the sole director and no separate company secretary has been appointed, you may sign in your capacity as director. If your company has an external company secretary — individual or corporate TCSP — they will typically execute and file the form on the company's behalf as part of their ongoing service.",[],{"slug":3855,"title":3856},"business-advice","Business Advice",{"_type":144,"alternativeText":3858,"height":145,"url":3859,"width":147},"Hong Kong Annual Return (NAR1): Filing Guide & Fees","https:\u002F\u002Fcdn.aspireapp.com\u002Fwebsites\u002Fblog\u002F5174d8831936d07f8262ffe65efda0c4\u002Fshared-5174d883_cover_shared-cover-people.jpeg",[3861,3868,3876,3882,3890,3897],{"_key":959,"_type":856,"children":3862,"level":1097,"listItem":1681,"markDefs":3867,"style":885},[3863],{"_key":3864,"_type":860,"marks":3865,"text":3866},"k1",[],"Mandatory Annual Census: Every locally incorporated limited company—including completely dormant ones—must file Form NAR1 every year to update the public register on its corporate structure (directors, shareholders, and addresses). It is not a financial or tax report.",[],{"_key":3869,"_type":856,"children":3870,"level":1097,"listItem":1681,"markDefs":3875,"style":885},"k5",[3871],{"_key":3872,"_type":860,"marks":3873,"text":3874},"k4",[],"Strict 42-Day Deadline: The return must be submitted to the Companies Registry within 42 days of the company's incorporation anniversary date. This window includes weekends and public holidays.",[],{"_key":973,"_type":856,"children":3877,"level":1097,"listItem":1681,"markDefs":3881,"style":885},[3878],{"_key":969,"_type":860,"marks":3879,"text":3880},[],"No More Fee Waivers: The temporary COVID-19 fee waivers have permanently expired. Filing on time in 2026 costs a flat statutory fee of HK$105 for private companies.",[],{"_key":3883,"_type":856,"children":3884,"level":1097,"listItem":1681,"markDefs":3889,"style":885},"k11",[3885],{"_key":3886,"_type":860,"marks":3887,"text":3888},"k10",[],"Severe Late Penalties: Missing the 42-day window triggers automatic, non-waivable late filing fees that escalate sharply based on the delay, scaling from HK$870 up to HK$3,480.",[],{"_key":981,"_type":856,"children":3891,"level":1097,"listItem":1681,"markDefs":3896,"style":885},[3892],{"_key":3893,"_type":860,"marks":3894,"text":3895},"k13",[],"New Form Requirements: You must use the updated version of the form. It requires the first 8 digits of your Business Registration Number (BRN) as a unique identifier and a specific Business Nature Code chosen from the official classification list.",[],{"_key":978,"_type":856,"children":3898,"level":1097,"listItem":1681,"markDefs":3902,"style":885},[3899],{"_key":989,"_type":860,"marks":3900,"text":3901},[],"Director Liability & Strike-off Risk: Persistent failure to file is a criminal offense that exposes directors to personal fines of up to HK$50,000, and risks the company being entirely struck off and shut down by the government.",[],[3904,3910,3916],{"_key":959,"_type":856,"children":3905,"markDefs":3909,"style":885},[3906],{"_key":3864,"_type":860,"marks":3907,"text":3908},[],"Running a business in Hong Kong comes with a reputation for efficiency, but it also requires strict adherence to corporate compliance. Chief among these annual obligations is the Hong Kong Annual Return, officially known as Form NAR1.",[],{"_key":3869,"_type":856,"children":3911,"markDefs":3915,"style":885},[3912],{"_key":3872,"_type":860,"marks":3913,"text":3914},[],"Often confused with tax filings, the NAR1 is actually a statutory corporate \"census\" required by the Companies Registry to maintain an accurate, public snapshot of your company’s structure—including its directors, shareholders, and registered office. Whether your business is a bustling tech startup or a completely dormant entity, failing to file this form on time can transform a minor HK$105 administrative task into a costly legal headache.",[],{"_key":973,"_type":856,"children":3917,"markDefs":3921,"style":885},[3918],{"_key":969,"_type":860,"marks":3919,"text":3920},[],"Here is everything you need to know about navigating the updated NAR1 requirements, calculating your deadlines, and keeping your company in perfect regulatory good standing.",[],"2026-06-09T00:00:00.000Z",{"_type":139,"metaDescription":3924,"metaTitle":3858,"socialShareImageUrl":3925},"Master Hong Kong Form NAR1 requirements. Learn the 42-day anniversary deadline, current fee structures, and how to file via e-Registry.",{"_type":144,"alternativeText":3858,"height":145,"url":3859,"width":147},"nar1-guide",1791455348391]