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The short answer
Instead of HK$105, the Companies Registry charges HK$870 if a Hong Kong annual return is more than 42 days but up to three months late, HK$1,740 for three to six months, HK$2,610 for six to nine months and HK$3,480 beyond nine months, counted from the anniversary of incorporation (fees as at 2026). Failing to file can also lead to prosecution.
Late registration fees for a private company (counted from the anniversary of incorporation; fees as at 2026):
| Delivered | Fee |
|---|---|
| Within 42 days | HK$105 |
| After 42 days up to 3 months | HK$870 |
| 3 to 6 months | HK$1,740 |
| 6 to 9 months | HK$2,610 |
| More than 9 months | HK$3,480 |
These are the Registry's published registration fees; the late amounts are paid in place of the normal fee when the return is delivered late.
Prosecution risk Prosecution can bring a maximum penalty of HK$50,000 for each breach plus HK$1,000 a day; the company and every responsible person can be prosecuted.
Strike-off The Registrar can also consider striking a company off where it appears not to be carrying on business.
Important notes
- A posted return counts only once the Registry has received it.
- Renewing the business registration certificate does not satisfy the annual return duty.
- Filing late does not remove the need to keep the company's records accurate.
If you have missed several years, file the overdue returns as soon as possible; fees are cumulative per return.
Legal basis and sources
The law
- Companies Ordinance (Cap. 622), s.662
- Companies (Fees) Regulation (Cap. 622K)
General information for business owners, not legal, tax or professional advice. Rules change, so check the sources or ask a licensed professional before you act.
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