902000Creative artists, musicians and writers
藝術創作人、音樂人及作家
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 encompasses individuals engaged in creative expression through various forms of art, music, and literature. It includes authors, composers, and artists who produce original works, such as books, music, and visual art, as well as those involved in specific practices like cartooning, playwriting, and restoring art.
This classification includes
- authors of scientific and technical books
- cartooning
- chop carving
- composers
- hand painting
- independent journalists
- individual writers (including fictional writing, technical writing etc.)
- lyrics writers
- opera and music, composition
- playwriting or screenwriting
- restoring of works of art
- sculpting
Classified elsewhere
These activities look similar but belong under different codes.
- furniture (except museum type restoration), restoring
- historical musical instruments, restoring
- manufacture of statues other than artistic originals
- restoring of historical sites and buildings
Licences and approvals
What this activity needs to operate
No sector-specific licence applies to this activity. It can be set up as a standard Hong Kong company without extra regulatory approvals. Premises-based or product-based permits can still apply case by case; Emerhub confirms the exact position during scoping.
Offshore profits claim feasibility
MediumProfits from creative activities may qualify for offshore treatment if services are delivered outside Hong Kong. However, many artists and writers often engage with local clients or perform services within Hong Kong, which limits offshore eligibility.
Business registration wording
Suggested business nature for this activity
English
CREATIVE ARTISTS, MUSICIANS AND WRITERS SERVICES
48/60 characters
Chinese 中文
藝術創作人音樂人及作家
11/30 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
Do I need a license to operate as a writer?
In Hong Kong, you typically do not need a specific license to operate as a writer or artist unless you are involved in regulated activities.
How is income from writing taxed?
Income from writing is subject to Hong Kong profits tax. However, if services are performed offshore, you may qualify for non-taxable treatment.
Can I work with international clients?
Yes, you can work with international clients. Ensure contracts are negotiated and concluded offshore to enhance offshore tax benefits.
Incorporate in Hong Kong
Starting a creative artists, musicians and writers 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