If you are starting a business in Hong Kong then depending on the nature of the business you may need certain licenses and permits that are issued by the Hong Kong Government department(s).

Generally, to secure a business licence, you will have to fill in a form and lodge your application to the appropriate governmental body in Hong Kong. Upon applying for a business licence, it usually takes around 2-8 weeks to secure approval.

Common type of Businesses that need a business license in Hong Kong

In general, you have to obtain licence(s) according to the nature of your business operation. For example, if your business is operating as:

• A restaurant and food business then must obtain the “General Restaurant License” from the Food and Environmental Hygiene Department (“FEHD”) before commencing business operations. You might require additional licenses such as a Liquor License from the Liquor Licensing Board;. If you are selling bakery products then you need a Bakery License from the FEHD;
• An educational institution such as a private school, tuition centre must obtain a School Registration Certificate from the Education Bureau;
• A travel agency offering travel packages, tour offers and transportation services must obtain a Travel Agent’s License from the Commerce and Economic Development Bureau;
• An employment agency that offers recruitment/placement services must apply for a license or apply for Certificate of Exemption to the Labor Department; 
• A retail business then the license will vary depending on the type of goods or services being sold. For instance, if you are dealing with medical devices then obtain a Medical Device Trader Listing from the Medical Device Division of the Department of Health; or if you are operating a pet shop then obtain the Animal Boarding Establishment License from the Agriculture, Fisheries and Conservation Department;
• A financial services company then depending on the type of financial services being offered you need to obtain the relevant licenses. For instance, if you are a money lender then you need to obtain Money Lenders License from the Companies Registry; and 
• A trading company then you need to obtain a specific import/export license depending on the types of goods you are dealing with. For instance, Import/Export license for foodstuffs can be obtained from The Center of Food Safety, Food and Environmental Hygiene Department; or the Import/Export license for textiles can be obtained from The Trade and Industry Department.

In order to find out the type(s) of business license you require, the Support and Consultation Centre for Small and Medium Enterprises run by the Trade and Industry Department has provided the “Business License Information Service” on the website: www.success.tid.gov.hk. 

To read more about the difference between Business License and Registration, read “How is Business License different from Business Registration?”

Key takeaway 

• You may have to obtain specific licenses with different bodies according to the nature of your business.
• You can get a preliminary idea of licenses required for your business using the search system provided by the Trade and Industry Department.