Types of Licenses for Businesses in Hong Kong

Obtaining the right licenses is a crucial step for businesses in Hong Kong, ensuring compliance with legal requirements and smooth operations within the city’s regulatory framework.

Before commencing business activities in Hong Kong, companies must obtain a Business Registration Certificate. This serves as official proof of business registration and is a fundamental requirement for legal operations.

Various industries require specific licenses issued by sector-specific government bodies to ensure compliance with industry standards and regulations. Below is a breakdown of the most common business licenses in Hong Kong by category.

Food Business License

If you plan to establish a restaurant, café, or food business, obtaining a General Restaurant License from the Food and Environmental Hygiene Department is essential. Premises must meet specific regulatory requirements before approval is granted.

If your business serves alcoholic beverages, a Liquor License is also required. However, this license can only be obtained after securing a General Restaurant License.

Other food-related licenses include:

License for Storage or Manufacture of Hazardous Substances – Required for non-immediate liquor storage.
Karaoke Establishment Permit – Needed if karaoke services are offered within the premises.
Permission for Outdoor Seating – Necessary for alfresco dining setups.
Import License – Required for importing frozen meat and poultry.
Bakery License – Mandatory for producing and selling bakery products.
Food Factory License – For food manufacturing, processing, or packaging for human consumption.
Permit for Food and Beverage Vending Machines – Needed for vending machine operations.
Restricted Food Permit – Required for selling raw food like sushi, sashimi, oysters, or cut fruit.

Professional Licenses

Certain professions in Hong Kong require licenses to ensure professional standards and legal compliance.

Employment Agency License

Businesses providing recruitment and placement services must obtain a License to Operate an Employment Agency from the Labour Department.

Travel Agency License

Companies offering travel and tour packages, including transportation and accommodations, must apply for a Travel Agent’s License from the Commerce and Economic Development Bureau.

Educational Institution Registration

Educational institutions, vocational centers, nurseries, and other learning centers must secure a Certificate of Registration of a School from the Education Bureau.

Financial Services Licenses

Businesses in banking, insurance, and securities trading require licenses from regulatory bodies like the Hong Kong Monetary Authority (HKMA) and the Securities and Futures Commission (SFC).

Some key financial licenses include:

Representative License or Corporate License (SFC) – Required for investment advisory services.
Money Lenders License – Issued by the Companies Registry for money-lending activities.
Insurance Agents and Brokers Registration – Required for operating as an insurance agent or broker.
Pawnbrokers License – Issued by the Hong Kong Police Force for pawnshops.
Deposit-Taking Business Registration – Required by the HKMA for deposit-taking institutions.
Money Changers & Remittance Agents Registration – Required for foreign exchange and remittance services.

Trading Company Licenses

Trading companies must obtain relevant import/export licenses based on the nature of the goods. Some key licenses include:

Dutiable Goods License – For alcoholic liquors, tobacco, hydrocarbon oils, etc.
Controlled Chemicals License – Issued by the Customs and Excise Department.
Animal/Bird Import/Export License – Managed by the Agriculture, Fisheries, and Conservation Department.
Food Import/Export License – Required by the Food and Environmental Hygiene Department.
Textile Import/Export License – Issued by the Trade and Industry Department.
Pharmaceutical Products & Dangerous Drugs License – Required by the Department of Health.
Pesticides License – Issued by the Agriculture, Fisheries, and Conservation Department.

eCommerce Company Licensing

Online businesses may require licenses depending on their products or services. eCommerce businesses selling regulated goods (e.g., food, pharmaceuticals, cosmetics, or financial services) must obtain industry-specific permits before operation.

Entertainment Licenses

Businesses in the entertainment sector, including bars, clubs, and performance venues, require appropriate licenses for legal operation.

Some key entertainment-related permits include:

Amusements with Prizes License – Required for prize-based games.
Advertising Materials Certificate – For public advertising displays.
Lottery License – Mandatory for fundraising lotteries.
Film Screening Approval – For public film screenings.
Liquor License – Needed for selling alcohol at events.
Food Factory License – Required for food vendors at entertainment events.

Conclusion

Understanding Hong Kong’s licensing framework is essential for businesses to operate legally and avoid regulatory issues. Each industry has unique licensing requirements, making it crucial to conduct thorough research and secure the necessary approvals before launching operations.

For assistance in obtaining the right license for your business, contact us today.