The Ultimate Guide to Hong Kong Annual Returns (NAR1) for Private Companies
- a22162
- Dec 25, 2025
- 5 min read
Hong Kong Company Annual Return Guide
The Ultimate Guide to Hong Kong Annual Returns (NAR1) for Private Companies
If you own a private limited company in Hong Kong, staying compliant with the Companies Registry (CR) is non-negotiable. The most critical recurring task is filing your Annual Return (Form NAR1).
Missing this deadline doesn't just result in a small fee; it can lead to heavy fines, court summons, and damage to your company’s reputation. This guide simplifies everything you need to know to stay in the government’s good books.
1. What is a Hong Kong Annual Return (Form NAR1)?
An Annual Return is not a tax return. While the Inland Revenue Department (IRD) handles your taxes, the Companies Registry uses Form NAR1 to update the public record of your company’s structure.
It provides a "snapshot" of:
Registered office address
Share capital details
Particulars of Directors, Shareholders, and Company Secretary
Company records location
2. When is the Filing Deadline?
For a local private company, the deadline is strictly based on your date of incorporation.
Deadline: Within 42 days after the anniversary of your company's incorporation date.
The "42-Day" Rule: This includes Sundays and public holidays. If the 42nd day falls on a Sunday or public holiday, the deadline moves to the next working day. However, if the 42nd day is a Saturday, the deadline remains Saturday (use the drop-in box or e-filing).
Pro Tip: Use the Companies Registry Filing Calculator to find your exact due date.
3. Registration Fees & The Cost of Delay
The standard registration fee for a timely filing is only HK$105. However, if you miss the 42-day window, the fee escalates significantly:
Delivery Date (After Anniversary) | Registration Fee (HK$) |
Within 42 days | $105 |
42 days to 3 months | $870 |
3 months to 6 months | $1,740 |
6 months to 9 months | $2,610 |
More than 9 months | $3,480 |
Additional Risk: Persistent failure to file is a criminal offense. Directors and company secretaries can be prosecuted and fined up to HK$50,000 per breach, plus daily default fines.
4. How to File Your Annual Return (Step-by-Step)
Option A: Electronic Filing (Recommended)
Log in to the e-Services Portal.
Verify Info: The system pre-fills your company data. Simply check for accuracy.
Digital Signature: Sign using a digital certificate or your e-Registry password.
Pay: Settle the HK$105 fee via credit card or PPS.
Option B: Hard Copy Filing
Download: Get Form NAR1 from the CR website.
Complete: Use English or Traditional Chinese.
Sign: Must be signed by a Director or the Company Secretary.
Deliver: Send by post or deliver in person to the 14th Floor, Queensway Government Offices, 66 Queensway, Hong Kong. Include a cheque payable to "Companies Registry."
5. Common Pitfalls to Avoid
Confusing NAR1 with Tax Returns: You must file the NAR1 even if your company is "dormant" (unless you have formally applied for dormant status under the Companies Ordinance).
Incorrect Signatures: Ensure the person signing is currently registered as a director or secretary in the CR records.
Waiting Until the Last Day: Postal delays are not an excuse. The CR counts the date they receive the document, not the date you mailed it.
6. How a Company Secretary Can Help
In Hong Kong, every company is legally required to have a Company Secretary. Their primary role is to ensure your NAR1 is filed accurately and on time. Many business owners outsource this to professional firms to avoid the stress of tracking deadlines and the risk of $3,480 late fees.
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQ)
Q: My company didn't do any business this year. Do I still need to file?
A: Yes. As long as the company is on the register and hasn't filed for official "dormant" status, you must file an Annual Return every year.
Q: What if I changed my directors during the year?
A: You should have filed Form ND2A within 15 days of that change. The Annual Return (NAR1) should reflect the current directors as of the return date.
Q: Is there an "Annual Return" e-reminder service?
A: Yes, the Companies Registry offers a free e-reminder service through their e-Services Portal. It is highly recommended to sign up.
Why Bestar is the Leading Choice for Company Secretary Services in Hong Kong
The Ultimate Guide to Hong Kong Annual Returns (NAR1) for Private Companies
In the high-speed business environment of Hong Kong, compliance is the foundation of growth. Under the Companies Ordinance (Cap. 622), every private company must appoint a qualified Company Secretary.
Bestar Hong Kong has emerged as a premier choice for entrepreneurs and multinational firms seeking more than just a "name on a certificate." Here is how Bestar’s professional-led approach sets us apart in the HK corporate services landscape.
1. Professional-Led Advisory vs. Basic Compliance
Many service providers offer "automated" secretarial services that often miss the nuance of complex corporate law. Bestar positions itself as a Professional-Led Advisory firm. Instead of dealing with a chatbot, you gain access to:
Experienced CPAs and Chartered Secretaries: Professionals who understand the tax and audit implications of your corporate secretarial decisions.
Human Advantage: Dedicated account managers who provide strategic guidance on share transfers, director appointments, and corporate restructuring.
2. Comprehensive "One-Stop-Shop" Services
Bestar eliminates the need to manage multiple vendors. Our Hong Kong office provides a seamless integration of services:
Company Formation: Rapid setup for local and foreign investors (including ready-made/shelf companies).
Statutory Compliance: Management of the Significant Controllers Register (SCR) and maintenance of all statutory records.
Annual Return Filing (NAR1): Timely submission to the Companies Registry to avoid escalating late fees.
Accounting & Audit: Bridging the gap between your secretarial records and your annual financial statements.
3. Specialized Support for Foreign Investors
Opening a business in Hong Kong from abroad can be daunting. Bestar specializes in helping non-residents navigate local hurdles:
Registered Office Address: Providing a prestigious physical address in commercial hubs like Sheung Wan.
Bank Account Assistance: Expert guidance through the rigorous "Know Your Customer" (KYC) processes of Hong Kong’s leading banks.
International Reach: With offices in Singapore and Malaysia, Bestar is uniquely positioned to help businesses expanding across the Asia-Pacific region.
4. Transparent Pricing & Packages
Bestar is committed to budget certainty with no hidden fees. While many firms hide costs, Bestar’s structure is clear:
Service Category | Estimated Fee (HKD) | What’s Included |
Annual Secretarial Package | ~$1,500 - $4,000 | Named Secretary, NAR1 filing, and record maintenance. |
Full Incorporation | ~$7,000 - $15,000 | Setup, Gov fees, 1st year Secretary, and Registered Address. |
Ad-Hoc Changes | Competitive | Share allotments, change of directors, or company name changes. |
5. The "Switch to Bestar" Advantage
Unhappy with your current provider? Bestar simplifies the migration process. We handle the Form ND2A filing and the board resolutions required to transition your company secretary services smoothly, ensuring no gaps in your compliance timeline.
Final Verdict: Is Bestar Right for You?
Bestar is ideal for:
SMEs that require professional CPA-level oversight.
Foreign Entrepreneurs who need a local partner to manage banking and government relations.
Growing Startups looking for a scalable partner that can handle HR, payroll, and audit as the business expands.
Frequently Asked Questions
Q: Can a director also be the Company Secretary at a company?
A: Under HK law, if a company has only one director, that person cannot be the secretary. Bestar provides a corporate body to act as your secretary to ensure you meet this legal requirement.
Q: How quickly can Bestar incorporate my company?
A: With electronic filing, Bestar can often have your company registered and your Business Registration Certificate issued within 24 to 48 hours.
Q: Does Bestar help with "Dormant" companies?
A: Yes. If your company is inactive, Bestar can manage the statutory filings required to maintain its legal status at a reduced cost.
Internal Link: Our "Annual Return Guide" and "HK Incorporation Fees" pages.
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