Plain-English guides to HSIC codes, company registration, and compliance in Hong Kong.
Your HSIC code determines which banks will accept your application, what compliance checks they run, and how long account opening takes. This guide explains the exact relationship between your HSIC classification and banking eligibility, with specific requirements for high-risk vs low-risk codes.
Every Hong Kong business must select an HSIC code when applying for a Business Registration Certificate. This guide explains what HSIC codes are, how to find the correct code for your business, and the legal consequences of choosing the wrong one.
A practical guide for Hong Kong employers on hiring foreign staff, covering employment visa eligibility, application timelines, government fees, and ongoing compliance under the Immigration Ordinance (Cap. 115) and Employment Ordinance (Cap. 57). Includes specific requirements for the General Employment Policy, Admission of Talents Scheme, and Technology Talent Admission Scheme.
Every Hong Kong employer must enrol employees in an MPF scheme within 60 days of hiring. This guide covers eligibility, contribution rates, deadlines, and penalties under the Mandatory Provident Fund Schemes Ordinance (Cap. 485). Non-compliance can result in fines of up to HKD 350,000 and imprisonment.
This guide explains the Employment Ordinance (Cap. 57) requirements every Hong Kong employer must follow, including contract terms, termination rules, statutory holidays, and MPF obligations. It covers eligibility, timelines, costs, and suitability for different business sizes.
This guide covers the regulatory requirements for registering a pharmacy or dispensary in Hong Kong, including the Pharmacy and Poisons Ordinance (Cap. 138), HSIC codes, licensing steps, costs, and timelines. It is designed for pharmacists and entrepreneurs seeking to operate a lawful retail pharmacy or dispensing practice.
To operate an employment agency in Hong Kong, you must obtain a licence from the Labour Department under the Employment Ordinance (Cap. 57). This guide covers eligibility, application steps, costs, and compliance obligations for both local and overseas operators.
A Money Service Operator (MSO) licence is required for any business in Hong Kong that provides money changing or remittance services. This guide covers the licensing requirements under the Customs and Excise Department, the mandatory company registration steps, and the compliance obligations under the Anti-Money Laundering and Counter-Terrorist Financing Ordinance (Cap. 615).
Hong Kong maintains a free trade policy, but certain goods require import/export licences under the Import and Export Ordinance (Cap. 60). This guide covers which goods are controlled, who needs a licence, application procedures, timelines, costs, and exemptions for traders and SMEs.
A practical guide to obtaining a food business licence in Hong Kong, covering eligibility, application steps, costs, and HSIC codes. Learn how to comply with the Food Business Regulation (Cap. 132X) and avoid common pitfalls.
Opening a business bank account in Hong Kong requires a Hong Kong-incorporated company, physical director presence for most banks, and specific documentation including a valid Business Registration Certificate and incorporation documents. This guide covers eligibility, required documents, timelines, costs, and bank selection criteria for SMEs and entrepreneurs.
Stamp duty in Hong Kong applies to property transfers, share transfers, and certain business documents. This guide covers the legal basis under the Stamp Duty Ordinance (Cap. 117), current rates, payment deadlines, penalties for late payment, and practical steps for compliance.