An Essential Guide to a Business Registration Number in Hong Kong
- Modified: 7 May 2025
- 9 min read
- Starting a Company
Gabi Bellairs-Lombard
Author
Gabi creates content that inspires. She's spent her career writing compelling website copy, and now she specialises in product marketing copy. As the voice of our products and features, Gabi makes complex business finance and accounting topics easy to understand. Her top priority is ensuring that her words impact and inspire her readers.
If you’re setting up or running a business in Hong Kong, a Business Registration Number (BRN) is indispensable for compliance with the Companies Ordinance and operational efficiency. This 8-digit number, issued by the Inland Revenue Department, is found on the Business Registration Certificate, serves as proof of your business's legal status. It streamlines your tax and legal processes, establishing your organisation’s legal status.
Key Takeaways
- A Business Registration Number (BRN) in Hong Kong is an eight-digit identifier mandatory for all business entities, playing a vital role in tax filings, legal transactions, and access to government services.
- Companies, freelancers, and non-local legal entities engaging in business in Hong Kong must have a BRN, which is distinct from the Company Registration Number (CRN) used for company identification.
- The BRN streamlines operations, facilitates financial transactions, assists in opening bank accounts, and ensures tax compliance, thus serving as an essential tool for business efficiency and growth.
What Is a Business Registration Number (BRN)?
A Business Registration Number (BRN) is a unique 8-digit identifier issued by the Business Registration Office in Hong Kong, allowing a business to be distinguished from other entities. It serves as an official recognition of a company by the Inland Revenue Department, enabling it to be identified for tax-related and regulatory purposes. Beyond its practical use, the BRN symbolises a company’s compliance with Hong Kong’s business laws. However, it is distinct from a Company Registration Number, which we will explain in detail later.
Since 27 December 2023, the BRN has also served as the Unique Business Identifier (UBI) for entities in Hong Kong. This initiative aims to streamline business identification across various government departments, making the BRN the standard reference number for companies in official interactions.
Advantages of Having a Business Registration Number
A Hong Kong business can navigate the myriad regulatory requirements effectively by obtaining a Business Registration Number. The BRN is a crucial reference number that facilitates the smooth operation of businesses, underlining the importance of the company incorporation process and the issuance of company registration numbers. Although getting a business registration number is mandatory, there are key benefits of obtaining a BRN:
- Filing annual returns
- Engaging in legal transactions
- Establishing credibility and trust with customers and partners
- Accessing government services and benefits
- Complying with regulatory requirements
By obtaining a business registration number (BRN), local companies and non-Hong Kong company entities can ensure that they operate legally and efficiently in compliance with the Hong Kong Companies Ordinance.
Which Businesses Require a BR Number?
The scope of the business registration number in Hong Kong extends to the majority of business entities, thereby making its possession a legal requirement for every business, including companies incorporated in Hong Kong but based offshore. Whether you’re a sole proprietor running a small local shop or a multinational corporation with a branch in Hong Kong, the BRN is a must-have for your business operations and for the IRD to collect taxes.
Even freelancers and sole proprietorships are not exempt from this requirement. As the BRN confirms the registration of individuals and entities engaged in business activities, it serves as a testament to the legality and legitimacy of a business, underscoring its importance for all businesses operating within Hong Kong.
However, certain business activities do not have to register with the IRD (according to a specific set of criteria). These include:
- Agriculture
- Market gardening
- Breeding and rearing livestock
- Fishing
- Charity work
We’ll help you secure your Business Registration Number (BRN) quickly and hassle-free. From company registration to ensuring compliance with local regulations, we handle it all. Start your Hong Kong business journey with us today!
Business Registration Number Format
Following a specific format composed of eight digits without any special characters or prefixes — for example, 12345678 or 87654321— the Hong Kong BRN is unique for every business, including both local and foreign entities. These eight digits are essentially the first digits of the Business Registration Certificate number. This number is obtained from the Inland Revenue Department using the required business incorporation forms, ensuring that every business has a unique identifier.
Example
The simplicity and consistency of the registration number format ensure ease of use across various industries and enterprises. For instance:
- A local limited company providing consultancy services might have a BRN such as 23456789.
- A foreign company operating an import-export business could hold a BRN like 98765432.
Regardless of the business type, the BRN serves as a standard reference, aiding in the company registration process and ensuring compliance during legal operations.
Get your Business Registration Number hassle-free
Start your business journey in Hong Kong with ease by obtaining your business registration number quickly and efficiently. Contact us today to get started.
What Are the Differences Between a CRN and a BRN in Hong Kong?
While the Business Registration Number is a critical identifier for businesses in Hong Kong issued by the Business Registration Office of the IRD, it’s not the only registration number they must be aware of. The Company Registration Number (CRN) is another important identifier — a seven-digit number located in the top left corner of the Certificate of Incorporation and issued by the Companies Registry, serving as the official company ID recognised by government agencies for identifying incorporated companies. A company’s social security number is also essential for tax purposes.
Moreover, to operate within the legal framework in Hong Kong, a business needs both a company registration number and a business registration number, emphasising the significance of both these numbers in business operations. These two numbers are needed every time business owners sign legal documents, such as when opening a bank account, renting office space, or signing a contract.
| Aspect | Company Registration Number (CRN) | Business Registration Number (BRN) |
| Purpose | Official company ID for government recognition and legal compliance. ✅ | Identifier for tax purposes, issued by the Inland Revenue Department. 💰 |
| Issued By | Companies Registry 🏢 | Business Registration Office (Inland Revenue Department) 🏦 |
| Format | Seven-digit number 7️⃣ | Eight-digit number 8️⃣ |
| Location on Documents | Top left corner of the Certificate of Incorporation 📄 | Found on the Business Registration Certificate 📋 |
| Primary Usage | Used in legal documents and official forms (e.g., contracts, incorporation). 🖋️ | Used for tax purposes, including representative offices. 📊 |
| Requirement | Mandatory for incorporation and legal operations. 📑 | Mandatory for tax registration and compliance. 📝 |
| Key Applications | Opening a bank account, signing legal documents, renting office space. 🏦📃 | Filing tax returns, fulfilling tax obligations. 💵📈 |
Required Documents to Get a Business Registration Number
Submitting certain documents to the Business Registration Office is required to obtain a BRN. These typically include:
- A copy of the Certificate of Incorporation issued by the Companies Registry
- Suitable identification, such as a Hong Kong Identity Card (HKID) for individuals or registration forms like Form NN1 for non-Hong Kong companies
- Any additional documents as stipulated
- A Notice to Business Registration
The document requirements can vary depending on the type of business, such as a representative office. For instance, the registration of a sole proprietorship business requires a copy of the owner’s Hong Kong identity card or relevant proof of identity for non-residents, along with the completed application form to the Business Registration Office. Limited companies need to register with the Companies Registry to get a limited company status. They will then have to register with the Business Registration Office to start doing business in Hong Kong.
Getting your company incorporated with a reliable business incorporation service like Osome will help streamline the process for you. We help you acquire both a company registration number and a BRN in Hong Kong. Whether you're a foreign company or a local small business, we assist with everything from helping you choose a business name to managing your bookkeeping.
How To Obtain a Business Registration Number in Hong Kong?
Obtaining a BRN in Hong Kong is a straightforward process. Local businesses and non-Hong Kong companies can apply for a business registration number online through the official government website, which offers a convenient and efficient method for businesses to get their unique identification number. For those who prefer a hands-on approach, it is also possible to apply for a BRN using a downloadable form available on the Inland Revenue Department’s website.
Applications for company incorporation are submitted through the Companies Registry. For in-person applications, business owners can submit and pay the relevant fees to the Business Registration Office of the Inland Revenue Department.
Once the application is submitted, businesses can expect to receive their Business Registration Certificate approximately two days following the date of incorporation, in accordance with the Business Registration Ordinance. Failing to present a Business Registration Certificate can result in hefty fines and possibly prison time, so be sure to prioritise this when looking to start a business in Hong Kong, even if it's a non-Hong Kong company based offshore. If you're an individual conducting business, you are required to register under the Business Registration Ordinance.
How To Check a Business Registration Number (BRN)?
Once you have obtained your BRN from the Business Registration Office, verifying it for various purposes may become necessary. The verification process can be conducted online using the eTAX service provided on the Hong Kong government website. Through this service, individuals can inquire about the registration number of any business registered with the Business Registration Office.
By verifying a business registration number under the Business Registration Ordinance, businesses can access valuable information on the Business Register, including company registration details, business registration details, and trademark registration details. This enables local and non-Hong Kong registered companies to validate their legal establishment and ensures the accuracy of their company information by referring to government records.
Utilising Your BRN for Business Growth
Having a BRN is not just about regulatory compliance with the Hong Kong Companies Ordinance; it can also be a powerful tool for business growth. By leveraging your BRN, you can:
- Streamline your operations
- Facilitate financial transactions
- Open bank accounts
- Ensure tax compliance
- Appoint a new company director
The following subsections explore these aspects in greater detail.
A Business Registration Number is your key to doing business in Hong Kong smoothly. It is needed for a range of business functions, including opening a bank account, applying for licenses, and filing tax returns. It's an essential business tool as it helps you streamline operations and ensure your business remains tax compliant.
Corporate Secretary Manager
Wondering about Hong Kong compliance? Get our free guide
We cover everything you need to know about filing, deadlines and how to avoid penalties.
Streamlining operations with your BRN
The operational efficiency of a Hong Kong business can be significantly enhanced by having a BRN. As a unique business identifier, it facilitates easier recognition by regulatory authorities and other legal entities, optimising business operations. With a BRN, businesses can streamline their processes and ensure smoother operations, contributing to overall business efficiency.
Moreover, the BRN also plays a crucial role in streamlining tax-related matters and simplifying the process of obtaining licenses and permits. With its ability to optimise business operations across different areas, the BRN serves as a valuable tool for businesses in Hong Kong.
Financial transactions and the BRN
Being a tax identification number, the business registration number enables businesses to carry out accurate and efficient transactions when filing tax returns.
Moreover, the BRN serves multiple functions, including:
- Acting as a routing transit number for banks, enabling accurate and efficient currency transfer between accounts
- Enhancing the security of financial transactions
- Ensuring the scalability and security of the business network, particularly in relation to tax compliance
Assistance in opening a bank account
The BRN plays a pivotal role in establishing a bank account for a business. Used as a company identification tool, the BRN is necessary for properly administering the country’s tax laws during the opening of a business account.
In fact, the business registration number is often a requirement for opening an account in Hong Kong. By presenting the BRN and other required documents, businesses can establish an account without requiring directors, shareholders, and signatories to be physically present.
Summary
In conclusion, understanding the role of a Business Registration Number (BRN) in Hong Kong is crucial for businesses operating in the region. From serving as a unique identifier to facilitating tax compliance and financial transactions, the BRN plays a pivotal role in business operations. By leveraging the business registration number, businesses can ensure regulatory compliance with the Hong Kong Companies Ordinance and unlock numerous benefits that contribute to business growth and operational efficiency.
Gabi creates content that inspires. She's spent her career writing compelling website copy, and now she specialises in product marketing copy. As the voice of our products and features, Gabi makes complex business finance and accounting topics easy to understand. Her top priority is ensuring that her words impact and inspire her readers.
Get expert tips and business insights
Advice on starting and growing your company, as told by Osome's business community
FAQ
What is the business registration number in Hong Kong?
In Hong Kong, a Business Registration Number (BRN) is a unique business identifier assigned to a business by the Inland Revenue Department (IRD) upon registration. It should be displayed at the registered office address and on the Business Registration Certificate.
What is the difference between a BRN and a CRN in Hong Kong?
In Hong Kong, the main difference between a BRN and a CRN is that a BRN functions as a Tax Identification Number, whereas a CRN is akin to a Social Security Number issued by the Companies Registry, serving to identify a business for tax and legal purposes.
What is the business tax number in Hong Kong?
The Business Registration Number (BRN), i.e. the first eight digits of the Business Registration Certificate number, in Hong Kong is a unique 8-digit number issued by the Inland Revenue Department (IRD) and serves as the tax identification number (TIN) for businesses. It is essential for legal business operations and tax payments in Hong Kong.
Is company registration and business registration the same?
No, company registration and business registration are not the same. Company registration establishes a company's corporate status, while business registration allows a company to conduct business legally.
Which businesses require a business registration number in Hong Kong?
Regardless of its structure, every business operating in Hong Kong must have a Business Registration Number (BRN). This includes non-Hong Kong companies, sole proprietorships, limited liability companies, freelancers, and self-employed individuals.
More like this
Get expert tips and business insights
By clicking, you agree to our Terms & Conditions,Privacy and Data Protection Policy
We’re using cookies! What does it mean?