Reinstatement of Business Registration Levy from 1 April 2026 – What Hong Kong Companies Need to Know

In the 2026–2027 Hong Kong Government Budget announced on 25 February 2026, it was confirmed that the waiver of the annual Business Registration (BR) levy will not be continued. As a result, the levy of HK$150—previously waived for the past few years—will be reinstated with effect from 1 April 2026.

What Is Changing?

This adjustment does not constitute a fee increase. Rather, it represents the cancellation of the temporary waiver that had reduced the overall Business Registration renewal cost in recent years. With the reinstatement of the levy, the total BR renewal fee will revert to:

• HK$2,350 (HK$2,200 government fee + HK$150 levy) Equivalent to USD305.

This revised amount applies to Business Registration Certificates issued or renewed on or after 1 April 2026.

Background

The Hong Kong Government has, in previous fiscal years, implemented temporary fee waivers as relief measures to support businesses. The HK$150 levy component was among those waived. In the latest Budget, the Government confirmed that this waiver will be discontinued for the 2026–27 fiscal year, restoring the standard fee structure.

Who Is Affected?

All Hong Kong companies and business entities required to renew their Business Registration Certificate on or after 1 April 2026 will be subject to the reinstated levy.

Companies with renewal dates falling before 1 April 2026 will continue to benefit from the current waiver, provided renewal is completed before the effective date.

Practical Considerations

Businesses should:

• Budget for the adjusted BR renewal fee in 2026 and beyond

• Take note of renewal timelines to avoid late penalties

• Coordinate with their corporate service provider to ensure timely filing

Timely renewal remains critical, as late renewal may result in penalties imposed by the Inland Revenue Department.

If you require assistance with Business Registration renewal or have questions regarding government fees applicable to your Hong Kong company, please get in touch with our team for guidance.