Are you looking to apply for a Hong Kong Tax Identification Number (TIN) but unsure where to start? You're in luck! The process of how to apply for a TIN number online has become much simpler in recent years. This guide will walk you through the steps to get your Hong Kong TIN from the comfort of your home or office, saving you time and hassle.
Before we dive into the details, let's briefly touch on why you need a TIN and what to expect during the application process. A Hong Kong TIN is crucial for tax-related matters and financial transactions in the region.
In this article, you'll learn how to prepare for your application, navigate the online system step-by-step, and what happens after you submit your request.
Preparing for Your TIN Application
Before you begin the process of applying for your Hong Kong Tax Identification Number (TIN) online, it's crucial to gather all necessary documents and understand the eligibility criteria. This preparation will help streamline your application process and increase your chances of success.
1. Required Documents
To apply for a TIN, you'll need to have the following documents ready:
Hong Kong Identity Card (HKID): This is the primary form of identification for Hong Kong residents. The TIN for individuals includes all letters and numerals of the HKID number, including the letter or numeral in the bracket (but without the bracket itself).
Passport: If you don't have a Hong Kong Identity Card, you'll need to provide your passport number and nationality.
Contact Information: Prepare your day-time contact phone number and email address.
Postal Address: You'll need to provide a valid postal address for future correspondence with the Inland Revenue Department (IRD).
2. Eligibility Criteria
To be eligible for a Hong Kong TIN, you must meet certain criteria. For individuals, you're considered a tax resident of Hong Kong if you:
Ordinarily reside in Hong Kong, or Stay in Hong Kong for more than 180 days during a year of assessment or for more than 300 days in two consecutive years of assessment, one of which is the relevant year of assessment.
For entities, the criteria are:
- For companies: The company is incorporated in Hong Kong or, if incorporated outside Hong Kong, is normally managed or controlled in Hong Kong.
- For non-company entities: The entity is constituted under Hong Kong laws or, if constituted outside Hong Kong, is normally managed or controlled in Hong Kong.
3. Creating an eTAX Account
To apply for a TIN online, you'll need to create an eTAX account. Here's how to do it:
- Visit the eTAX website and click on "Apply for eTAX Password" if you're a new user.
- Fill out the online form with your personal details, including your name, HKID number (or passport number if you don't have an HKID), contact information, and postal address.
- Once you've submitted the form, the IRD will send you your Taxpayer Identification Number (TIN) and Access Code by post within 7 working days.
- After receiving your TIN and Access Code, you can log in to your eTAX account and start using the online services.
Bear in mind that your TIN serves as your permanent identifier for eTAX services. As it can only be altered during the initial registration, it's crucial to select it with care.
Step-by-Step How to Apply for a Tin Number Online in HK
1. Accessing the IRD Website
To begin your TIN application process, you'll need to visit the Inland Revenue Department (IRD) website.
Once there, navigate to the eTAX section. If you're a new user, you'll need to click on "Apply for eTAX Password" to create your account.
2. Filling Out the Application Form
When filling out the application form, you'll need to provide the following information:
- Personal details: Your full name (in English and Chinese), Hong Kong Identity Card number, and day-time contact phone number.
- Email address: This is crucial for future communications with the IRD.
- Postal address: Ensure this is correct, as it will be used for sending tax returns, notices of assessment, and other correspondence.
- Income source details: Depending on your situation, you'll need to provide:
- For salary earners: Your employer's full name and Business Registration number (if known).
- For businessmen: Your business name and Business Registration number.
- For property owners: The year concerned, rates assessment number, and property location.
3. Submitting Supporting Documents
Once you've filled in the form, you might be required to upload supporting documents. The IRD has set forth particular guidelines for document submission:
All mandatory supplementary forms (S1 to S18 and S20) and additional forms (IR1478, IR1481, and IR1482) must be submitted online through the service.
Financial statements and tax computations should be prepared in inline eXtensible Business Reporting Language (iXBRL) format if you're voluntarily e-filing your Profits Tax return.
In cases where the IRD Taxonomy Package is unsuitable, you can upload financial statements in PDF format.
Reasons Why Your Business Need a Tax Accountant
After submitting your application, the IRD will process it and send you your TIN and Access Code by post within 7 working days. Keep these safe, as you'll need them to log in to your eTAX account and access online services in future.
What to Do If There Are Issues
If you encounter any problems during or after the application process, don't worry. Here are some common problems and ways to solve them:
- Haven't received your Access Code: If a week has passed since your online application and you still haven't received your Access Code, contact the IRD at 183 2011.
- Forgotten your Access Code: You can apply for a new one by completing form IR6104. Alternatively, if you're an "iAM Smart" Account holder, you can log in instantly to your eTAX Account through the "iAM Smart" Mobile App.
- Forgotten your TIN: You can request the IRD to send your TIN to your registered email address through the "Forgot TIN/Password" link in eTAX. If this doesn't work, complete and return Form IR6104.
- Unauthorized use of your eTAX Account: If you suspect someone else has accessed your account, change your eTAX Password immediately through eTAX.
Remember, providing accurate information during your application is crucial. If you don't provide sufficient information, the IRD may not be able to process your application. So, double-check all details before submitting.
