When Does a Newly Established Company File Tax for the First Time?
Generally, a limited company in Hong Kong will receive the first Profits Tax Return (BIR51) from the Inland Revenue Department (IRD) approximately 18 months after its incorporation. For instance, if a company is incorporated in January 2026, it can expect to receive its first Profits Tax Return between July and August 2027.
It is important to note that even if the company has not commenced operations or generated revenue during its first fiscal year, the Profits Tax Return must still be filed.
Under What Circumstances Must a Company File Tax?
- Receipt of the Profits Tax Return
Upon receiving a Profits Tax Return from the IRD, the company must submit the completed return within the specified deadline, regardless of whether it has operated or earned a profit.If the company has not yet commenced operations, has ceased operations but not resumed, or has earned no taxable profit during the relevant tax year, the IRD may not require a tax return every year. However, once a return is issued, it must be submitted on time. - Company Is Operating but Has Not Received a Tax Return
Even if a company has not received a Profits Tax Return, it is obligated to proactively notify the IRD and declare its income if business operations or revenue generation have commenced. The excuse of "not having received a tax return" cannot be used to delay filing.
Hong Kong Limited Company Filing Timeline for 2026
The IRD usually issues Profits Tax Returns to all companies in Hong Kong in bulk on the first working day of April each year. Companies are required to file their returns within one month of issuance. The specific filing deadlines vary depending on the company's fiscal year-end date, as outlined below:
2025/26 Tax Filing Schedule
Is an Audited Report Required When Filing Tax Returns?
According to the Companies Ordinance and the prevailing regulations set by the IRD, all Hong Kong limited companies are required to submit the following documents along with their Profits Tax Returns:
- An audited report signed by a Hong Kong Certified Public Accountant (CPA)
- Audited financial statements
This requirement applies whether or not the company is conducting business or generating income—exemptions are not granted.
Profits Tax Rate for Hong Kong Limited Companies in 2026
Hong Kong continues to apply a two-tiered Profits Tax Rate regime in 2026:
- First HK$2,000,000 of taxable profits: 8.25%
- Profits exceeding HK$2,000,000: 16.5%
It is important to note that within the same group of companies, only one company is eligible for the two-tiered tax rate. Any other companies within the group must be taxed at the standard rate.