Starting 1 April 2026, businesses incorporating or renewing in Hong Kong are paying more. The HK$150 Business Registration Levy (BRL) — suspended as a relief measure for the past two years — has been reinstated, raising the cost of a one-year business registration certificate from HK$2,200 to HK$2,350.

This adjustment was confirmed in the 2026-27 Budget and affects every company in Hong Kong, from new incorporations to established entities renewing their annual certificates.

Why the Levy Returned

The BRL was first suspended in 2024-25 and extended through 2025-26 as part of the government's post-pandemic support package for small businesses. The government made clear at the time the suspension was temporary. With Hong Kong's economy stabilising and the fiscal deficit requiring consolidation, the Financial Secretary opted not to extend the relief further.

The BRL, technically a separate levy from the business registration fee, funds the Protection of Wages on Insolvency Fund — a statutory safety net compensating employees when their employer becomes insolvent. Its reinstatement ensures the fund remains adequately capitalised.

Breakdown of Costs

For a new company incorporation, the total government fees now stand at approximately HK$3,695 for a one-year certificate, comprising:

- Companies Registry registration fee: HK$1,545
- Business registration certificate: HK$2,000
- Business registration levy: HK$150

Companies opting for a three-year certificate will pay HK$5,200 for the certificate portion plus the levy. The amounts are determined by the effective date of the certificate, meaning any certificate commencing on or after 1 April 2026 attracts the new rates.

What Companies Should Do

The reinstatement is modest in absolute terms — HK$150 is unlikely to deter incorporation. The practical impact is mostly on budgeting and forecasting, particularly for professional services firms, company secretaries, and compliance providers who handle bulk renewals.

For existing companies, the key action is to note the revised amount when preparing annual return filings and business registration renewals. Underpayment leads to processing delays and potential penalties.

Companies planning incorporation should factor the updated figures into their setup budgets. Using a licensed TCSP (Trust or Company Service Provider) registered with the Companies Registry remains advisable, as they can handle the paperwork and ensure correct fee calculation.

Bottom Line

The HK$150 increase is small but symbolically significant — it marks the end of Hong Kong's pandemic-era business relief measures and signals a return to fiscal normalcy. For most businesses, it is simply an administrative update to account for. For the government, it represents incremental revenue toward restoring budget balance.

Sources: 2026-27 Hong Kong Budget; Inland Revenue Department Business Registration guidance.