Hong Kong remains a top choice for global entrepreneurs due to its free trade policies, enviable market access, and skilled workforce. While the business environment is highly stable, one of the most critical aspects for any founder is staying up to date with mandatory government costs and the company renewal process. Ensuring your business remains compliant through timely renewals is not just a legal obligation, but a strategic step to maintain your company’s standing in one of the world’s most dynamic economies.
In previous years, particularly during the pandemic, the Hong Kong government implemented temporary fee waivers to support local enterprises. However, for the 2025–2026 fiscal year, the government has reinstated the standard fee structure. Understanding these current costs is essential for accurate budgeting and maintaining your company in good standing.
Current Hong Kong Company Renewal Fees (2025–2026)
According to the latest schedule from the Inland Revenue Department (IRD), the temporary “COVID-era” discounts have expired. Here is the official breakdown of what you need to pay for your business registration certificate:
| Period of Commencement | Certificate Type | Registration Fee | Levy | Total (HK$) |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| 01.04.2025 – 31.03.2026 | 1-year certificate | $2,200 | $0 | $2,200 |
| 01.04.2025 – 31.03.2026 | 3-year certificate | $5,720 | $300 | $6,020 |
| 01.04.2025 – 31.03.2026 | Branch (1-year) | $80 | $0 | $80 |
What is the “Levy”? The levy is a mandatory contribution to the Wage Protection Expeditionary Fund, which protects employees in case of business insolvency. Even when the registration fee is waived or reduced, the levy often remains a required component of the total company renewal cost.
Note: The amounts are determined based on the commencement date of the certificate. For local companies incorporated under the one-stop service, the amount is determined by the date of the incorporation submission.
Expert Insight: Navigating the 2026 Fee Structure
To provide a deeper perspective on these changes, we asked Allen Fung, a Hong Kong accounting expert with years of hands-on experience in corporate compliance, for his take on the current situation:
“The return to standard registration fees in 2026 marks a post-pandemic stabilization of Hong Kong’s fiscal policy. While the ‘zero-fee’ era was a welcome relief, the current HK$2,200 total is still remarkably competitive globally. From my experience working with hundreds of international founders, the real cost-efficiency in HK doesn’t come from low government fees, but from the tax-free treatment of offshore income and capital gains. However, I always warn my clients: as fees normalize, the IRD’s scrutiny of timely filings often increases. Missing a deadline for your company renewal can now result in penalties that far outweigh the registration fee itself.” — Allen Fung, Hong Kong Accounting Specialist
Why Hong Kong Remains the Preferred Location for Entrepreneurs
Despite the return to standard government fees, Hong Kong continues to hold the top spot in the Index of Economic Freedom. The city offers an environment for commerce and investment that is hard to match elsewhere in Asia.
Strong, Business-Friendly Environment
Hong Kong offers total freedom in business establishment. Unlike many other nations that place restrictions on foreign owners, HK provides unfettered access to its markets. The city’s legal system, rooted in common law, ensures transparency and low levels of corruption.
Easy Company Registration Process
The Hong Kong government has streamlined the launch process for both local and international entrepreneurs. By eliminating unnecessary procedures, a basic business can be registered in a matter of days. This efficiency is why thousands of startups continue to choose Hong Kong every year.
Unmatched Taxation Benefits
Taxation remains a primary reason for starting a business here. Hong Kong boasts some of the lowest tax rates in the world:
- No Capital Gains Tax
- No Dividend Tax
- No Offshore Income Tax (for income earned outside HK)
- Two-tiered Profits Tax: Only 8.25% on the first HK$2 million of profits.
100% Foreign Ownership
Whether you choose a subsidiary, a branch office, or a representative office, Hong Kong allows 100% foreign ownership. This flexibility allows small-to-midsize businesses to maintain full control over their operations and strategic goals.
Expert Support for Your 2026 Compliance
Navigating the transition from temporary waivers back to standard government fees can be confusing. At Startupr, we help you streamline the entire process. Our back-office system ensures that you never miss a deadline for annual filings or company renewal payments.
Are you prepared to launch or handle your Hong Kong company renewal in 2026? Let us handle the paperwork and the communication with the Companies Registry and IRD, so you can focus on scaling your business. Start Your Hong Kong Company Today.
Last Update: January 2026
