563100Bars and lounges
酒吧及酒廊
Why 6 digits?
HSIC subclasses are 6 digits. The first four match the international ISIC class; Hong Kong adds a two-digit local suffix for finer detail, especially across its import and export trade, so a code steps from a 4-digit class straight to a 6-digit subclass. More on the HSIC structure.
This activity includes establishments primarily engaged in serving alcoholic and non-alcoholic beverages, along with snacks and light refreshments. Bars and lounges provide a social environment for patrons to enjoy drinks and casual dining.
This classification includes
- bars serving drinks, snacks and light refreshments
Licences and approvals
What this activity needs to operate
Activities under this code trigger the following licensing regimes. Emerhub prepares and files each application on your behalf.
Liquor Licence
Liquor Licensing Board (executive and secretarial support provided by the Food and Environmental Hygiene Department)
Required by any person selling or supplying liquor for consumption on the premises, under the Dutiable Commodities Ordinance (Cap. 109) and Dutiable Commodities (Liquor) Regulations (Cap. 109B). The Liquor Licensing Board is an independent statutory body that considers applications, generally for premises holding or applying for a restaurant licence. A liquor licence is issued only once the premises hold a full or provisional restaurant licence, or a Certificate of Compliance for club liquor licences.
- Processing time
- About 8 weeks for non-contested applications and about 10 weeks for contested or contentious applications, per the Liquor Licensing Board application guide flow chart
Official sourceVerified 2026-07-14
Offshore profits claim feasibility
LowBars and lounges primarily serve local customers and operate within Hong Kong premises. The services are inherently tied to the local market, making it unlikely for profits to qualify for offshore treatment. Contracts are typically negotiated and concluded within Hong Kong.
Business registration wording
Suggested business nature for this activity
English
BARS AND LOUNGES SERVING DRINKS AND LIGHT REFRESHMENTS
54/60 characters
Chinese 中文
酒吧及酒廊
5/30 characters
Standard compliance
Compliance every Hong Kong company shares
Beyond anything specific to this activity, every Hong Kong company handles two-tiered profits tax, the annual return (Form NAR1) within 42 days of its incorporation anniversary, audited accounts, MPF enrolment for staff, and a company secretary. Emerhub runs all of it on your behalf.
See the full Hong Kong compliance calendarFrequently asked questions
What licenses do I need to operate a bar?
You will need a liquor license and a food business license to operate a bar in Hong Kong.
Can I serve food in my lounge?
Yes, you can serve snacks and light refreshments in your lounge as part of your business.
What are the tax implications for my bar?
Bars are subject to profits tax on income generated in Hong Kong, with no offshore tax benefits.
Incorporate in Hong Kong
Starting a bars and lounges business in Hong Kong?
Emerhub incorporates your company, registers the business nature above with the IRD, files every licence application, and runs your company secretary and compliance calendar. You provide the documents; Emerhub handles every government interaction.
Start incorporation with Emerhub