682100Real estate brokerage and agency
地產經紀及代理
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 the provision of services by real estate brokers and agents who facilitate the buying, selling, and leasing of properties. It includes activities such as representing clients in real estate transactions, providing market analysis, and assisting in property negotiations.
This classification includes
- property agents
- property leasing agents
- real estate brokers
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.
Estate Agent's Licence (Company)
Estate Agents Authority (EAA)
Any company carrying on estate agency work in Hong Kong must hold an Estate Agent's Licence (Company) issued by the Estate Agents Authority under the Estate Agents Ordinance (Cap. 511). The licence covers acting as an agent in respect of the sale, purchase or leasing of properties, and each place of business must also be covered by a statement of particulars of business. Individual directors and staff doing estate agency work need their own individual licences.
Official sourceVerified 2026-07-14
Offshore profits claim feasibility
LowReal estate brokerage activities are inherently tied to Hong Kong premises and customers. Contracts are typically negotiated and concluded within Hong Kong, making it difficult to qualify for offshore treatment. The nature of the services requires a local presence.
Business registration wording
Suggested business nature for this activity
English
REAL ESTATE BROKERAGE AND AGENCY SERVICES
41/60 characters
Chinese 中文
地產經紀及代理
7/30 characters
Industry statistics
How large is this sector in Hong Kong?
Official figures are compiled at industry level. These are for Real estate activities (L), the industry this classification belongs to.
11,500
Establishments (2023)
124,500
Persons engaged (2023)
C&SD Annual Survey of Economic Activities 2023Verified 2026-07-14
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
Do I need a license to operate?
Yes, you need a real estate agent's license issued by the Estate Agents Authority in Hong Kong.
What are the tax implications?
Profits from real estate brokerage are subject to Hong Kong profits tax. There are no offshore tax benefits.
Can I operate remotely from another country?
While you can manage some operations remotely, local presence and licensing are required for brokerage activities.
Incorporate in Hong Kong
Starting a real estate brokerage and agency 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