HSICDATA
HSIC V2.0Subclass

649901Money changers and foreign exchange brokers or dealers

外幣兌換店及外匯經紀或交易商

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 involves businesses that facilitate the exchange of foreign currencies, including money changers and foreign exchange brokers or dealers. These entities provide services to individuals and businesses looking to convert one currency into another, often for travel, trade, or investment purposes.

This classification includes

  • foreign currencies exchange brokers
  • money changers

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.

Money Service Operator (MSO) Licence

Customs and Excise Department (C&ED)

Required under the Anti-Money Laundering and Counter-Terrorist Financing Ordinance (Cap. 615) for any person operating a money changing service or remittance service in Hong Kong. Licensees, their directors and ultimate owners must pass a fit and proper person test and the licence is valid for two years.

Official sourceVerified 2026-07-14

Offshore profits claim feasibility

Medium

While money changing and foreign exchange brokerage can involve offshore clients, the activities are often tied to local customers and premises. Contracts are typically negotiated within Hong Kong, making it challenging to qualify for offshore treatment.

Business registration wording

Suggested business nature for this activity

English

FOREIGN CURRENCY EXCHANGE BROKERS AND MONEY CHANGERS

52/60 characters

Chinese 中文

外幣兌換店及外匯經紀

10/30 characters

Test your own wording in the checker

Companies

Licensed operators

Verified registry

620 on the MSO (Customs & Excise) register; a sample below.

Search all 620

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 calendar

Frequently asked questions

What licenses do I need to operate?

You need a Money Service Operator License from the Hong Kong Customs and Excise Department to operate as a money changer or foreign exchange broker.

Are there specific tax implications?

Profits from money changing and foreign exchange activities are subject to Hong Kong profits tax, as these activities are generally considered local.

Can I operate online without a physical presence?

A physical presence is typically required for licensing, but online services can complement your operations once licensed.

Incorporate in Hong Kong

Starting a money changers and foreign exchange brokers or dealers 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