Harbin Guide to Deregistering a HK Co. Step-by-Step Process and Practical Tips

How to Smoothly Deregister a Hong Kong Company in Harbin A Comprehensive Guide and Practical Advice

With changes in the global economic environment and the growing appeal of the mainland market, an increasing number of companies registered in Hong Kong are choosing to exit or transform their operations. For businesses headquartered in Hong Kong but operating in mainland China-particularly in the northeastern region-understanding how to complete the company deregistration process outside of Hong Kong, such as in Harbin, has become a crucial matter.

Recent news indicates that since the fourth quarter of 2025, the Hong Kong Special Administrative Region has further optimized the company deregistration process, simplifying certain procedures and encouraging businesses to complete formalities through online platforms. This change offers greater convenience to business owners located outside Hong Kong. Especially in geographically distant cities like Harbin, entrepreneurs require a clear step-by-step guide to navigate the entire deregistration process.

This article combines current policy frameworks and practical experience to provide a comprehensive guide and practical advice for companies based in Harbin seeking to deregister their Hong Kong entities.

1. Determine the Type of Deregistration Voluntary Deregistration or Members’ Voluntary Liquidation?

Before initiating the deregistration process, it is essential to assess the company’s situation and choose the appropriate method

1. Deregistration Deregistration Application

Suitable for companies that have never commenced business or have ceased operations and have no outstanding debts. This is the simplest and fastest method, typically initiated by a company director and approved by the Companies Registry in Hong Kong.

2. Members’ Voluntary Liquidation MVL

If the company still holds assets but has decided to cease operations, this method allows for an orderly winding-up. The process is more complex and requires the appointment of a professional liquidator to handle financial and tax matters.

According to an announcement by the Companies Registry in October 2025, the review time for deregistration applications has been shortened to approximately 15 working days, provided that all required documents are submitted and there are no disputes. For business owners in Harbin, this means a faster and smoother process.

2. Prepare Required Documents and Information

Regardless of the chosen method, the following documents are typically required

Certificate of Incorporation

Latest Annual Return NAR1

Board or Shareholder Resolutions

Liquidation Report if applicable

Letter of Non-Objection from the Inland Revenue Department IRD

Important Before applying for deregistration, ensure that the company has no outstanding taxes, fines, or legal disputes. Failure to do so may result in rejection or being placed on a blacklist.

3. Remote Processing Options and Key Considerations

Since Harbin is not located in Hong Kong, business owners often cannot handle the process in person. Remote processing has therefore become the norm.

1. Appointing an Agent or Professional Service Provider

Most companies opt to engage local Hong Kong professional service firms-such as accounting firms or company secretarial services-to handle deregistration procedures. These entities are familiar with the process and updated on the latest regulations, significantly reducing communication costs and the risk of errors.

2. Submitting Applications via E-Government Platforms

In recent years, Hong Kong has strongly promoted e-government services. For example, the CR eFiling system allows businesses to submit deregistration applications and related documents online. While certain steps like document signing still require physical verification, the overall process has been greatly simplified.

3. Remote Signing via Video Conferencing

Influenced by the pandemic, video conferencing for document signing has become standard practice. Many secretarial firms offer remote video witnessing services to ensure legal compliance. This provides great convenience for business owners in cities like Harbin.

4. Tax and Bank Account Handling

Tax and bank account matters are particularly critical during the deregistration process.

1. Notify the Inland Revenue Department and Obtain a Non-Objection Letter

All companies applying for deregistration must submit a notice of deregistration application to the Hong Kong Inland Revenue Department IRD and obtain a Letter of Non-Objection. If the company has had operational records in the past three years, it may also need to submit tax returns and audited financial statements.

2. Close the Company’s Bank Account

Once tax matters are settled, the company’s bank account should be closed as soon as possible to avoid unnecessary management fees or the risk of account freezing. Some banks support remote account closure, although authorization documents and identity verification may still be required.

5. Frequently Asked Questions and Practical Advice

Q1 Can I submit the application directly from Harbin to Hong Kong?

A Paper documents cannot be submitted directly, but applications can be submitted online via the electronic system or through a local agent.

Q2 Can the company be restored after deregistration?

A Yes, within six years, original shareholders may apply for restoration under certain conditions and upon payment of relevant fees.

Q3 What should I do if there are outstanding debts or legal disputes during the process?

A Resolve the disputes first, or consider opting for liquidation instead of deregistration. Legal advice may be necessary in complex cases.

6. Conclusion

Although deregistering a Hong Kong company from a mainland city like Harbin presents certain challenges, modern communication tools, professional agencies, and increasingly efficient e-government systems have made the process both efficient and transparent.

By planning ahead, preparing all necessary documents, and selecting the appropriate deregistration method, business owners can smoothly complete the process, thereby freeing up resources, avoiding future risks, and creating room for future development.

For companies planning to exit the Hong Kong market, staying informed about policy updates and making full use of external resources are key to achieving a smooth transition.