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Annual Return Filing | Filing Annual Return HK | Deep Blue CPA

Professional annual return (NAR1) preparation and filing for Hong Kong companies.

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Annual Return Services

Every Hong Kong company incorporated under the Companies Ordinance (Cap. 622) is required to file an annual return with the Companies Registry each calendar year. The annual return provides a snapshot of key company information including registered office address, directors, company secretary, shareholders, and issued share capital. Failure to file on time results in late filing penalties ranging from HK$870 to HK$5,000 and may affect the company's good standing.

Annual Return Preparation & Filing

  • Preparation and submission of NAR1 annual return form to the Companies Registry
  • Review and update of company records including registered office address, directors, and company secretary information
  • Shareholder register and share capital structure verification
  • Filing of annual return within 42 days after the anniversary of incorporation
  • Coordination with your company secretary to ensure all information is accurate before submission

Penalty & Late Filing Management

  • Late filing penalty assessment and payment handling (HK$870 to HK$5,000 per return)
  • Backlog filing assistance for companies with multiple outstanding annual returns
  • Restoration of company good standing after penalty clearance
  • Advice on procedures to prevent future late filing incidents

Director, Secretary & Address Change Updates

  • Simultaneous updating of director appointments, resignations, and changes in particulars
  • Company secretary (individual or corporate) change filing alongside annual return
  • Registered office address change notification to Companies Registry
  • Integrated compliance filing combining annual return with other statutory updates

Annual Return Compliance Review

  • Comprehensive review of company's statutory registers against filed information
  • Identification of discrepancies and corrective filing recommendations
  • Review of compliance with Companies Ordinance requirements for annual filings
  • Annual compliance health check report with recommendations

Frequently Asked Questions

What is the deadline for filing an annual return in Hong Kong?

The annual return must be filed within 42 days after the anniversary of the company's incorporation date (not the financial year-end). For example, a company incorporated on 15 March must file its annual return on or before 26 April each year.

What is the penalty for late filing of annual return?

Late filing penalties range from HK$870 to HK$5,000 depending on the length of delay. The penalty increases progressively: up to 3 months late is HK$870, 3-6 months is HK$1,740, 6-9 months is HK$3,480, and over 9 months is HK$5,000. Summary prosecution may also apply for persistent default.

Can I change company directors when filing the annual return?

Yes, changes in directors, company secretary, and registered office address can be filed simultaneously with the annual return using the NAR1 form. This is efficient as it combines routine updates with the annual filing obligation.

What information is included in the NAR1 annual return?

The NAR1 includes the company's registered office address, principal business address (if different), details of directors and company secretary, issued share capital and shareholder details, and a confirmation that the company's registers are maintained at the registered office.

Does my company need an audit before filing the annual return?

No, the annual return filing does not require audited financial statements. However, most companies are required to prepare audited accounts and file them with the Inland Revenue Department as part of the profits tax return process, which is separate from the annual return.

Can my company be struck off for not filing annual returns?

Yes. Persistent failure to file annual returns can lead to the company being struck off the register by the Companies Registry. This can result in the company's assets being forfeited to the government and directors facing personal liability.

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