Annual Return Filing in Hong Kong (NAR1): Deadlines, Penalties & Complete Process (2026)

Every Hong Kong incorporated company is legally required to file an Annual Return (Form NAR1) with the Companies Registry each year. Failure to file on time attracts significant penalties. This guide explains everything you need to know about the annual return filing process for 2026.

What is the Annual Return (NAR1)?

The Annual Return (Form NAR1) is a statutory document filed with the Hong Kong Companies Registry that provides an annual snapshot of your company’s key information, including:

• Company name and registration number
• Registered office address
• Details of directors and company secretary
• Details of shareholders and share capital
• Date of the Annual General Meeting (or confirmation that a written resolution was passed)

Annual Return Filing Deadlines

The filing deadline for the Annual Return depends on your company type:

| Company Type | Filing Deadline | |—|—| | Private company (limited by shares) | Within 42 days after the anniversary of incorporation | | Public company | Within 42 days after the Annual General Meeting | | Company limited by guarantee | Within 42 days after the Annual General Meeting |

For most private limited companies, the Annual Return must be filed within 42 days after the anniversary of the date of incorporation. For example, if your company was incorporated on 15 March 2024, the Annual Return for 2025 must be filed by 26 April 2025 (42 days after 15 March 2025).

Government Filing Fees (2026)

| Filing Timing | Fee (HKD) | |—|—| | Filed within 42 days (on time) | HK$105 | | Filed 43–3 months late | HK$870 | | Filed 3–6 months late | HK$1,740 | | Filed 6–9 months late | HK$2,610 | | Filed more than 9 months late | HK$3,480 |

Penalties for Late Filing

Late filing of the Annual Return is a criminal offence under the Companies Ordinance. In addition to the higher government fees shown above, the company and every responsible officer (including directors) may be liable to a fine of up to HK$50,000 for each offence, plus a daily default fine.

Persistent failure to file can result in the Companies Registry initiating deregistration proceedings against your company.

What Information is Required?

To prepare and file the Annual Return, your company secretary will need:

• Current details of all directors (name, address, passport/ID number)
• Current details of the company secretary
• Current registered office address
• Current shareholder details and share capital information
• Date of the most recent Annual General Meeting (or written resolution)

Can I File the Annual Return Myself?

Yes, you can file the Annual Return yourself via the Companies Registry’s e-Registry portal. However, most companies engage their company secretary to handle this as part of their annual compliance service, ensuring accuracy and timely filing.

How Echo Olesen Global Manages Your Annual Return

Echo Olesen Global’s company secretary service includes proactive management of your Annual Return filing. We:

• Track your filing deadline and send advance reminders
• Prepare the NAR1 form with your current company information
• File electronically with the Companies Registry
• Pay the government fee on your behalf
• Provide you with confirmation of filing

Conclusion

The Annual Return is a straightforward but critical compliance requirement for every Hong Kong company. Missing the deadline can result in significant penalties and criminal liability for directors. Echo Olesen Global’s company secretary service ensures your Annual Return is always filed on time — contact us to discuss your compliance needs.