[April/2022 Update] Profits Tax Return [BIR51, BIR52, & BIR54] Keynotes for the 2021/22

Major modifications in the 2021/22 Profits Tax Returns

BIR51, BIR52, or BIR54 are required to file with the Inland Revenue Department as in informed due dates. As a part of the return, supplementary forms should be submitted together with the return.

*Supplementary forms are used to declare information on preferential regimes and tax incentives. Taxpayers can download the required supplementary forms and complete the form electronically.

Two major modifications from the IRD you should take into account for the filling Hong Kong profits tax returns this year:

• Tax concession for eligible carried interest

Taxpayers that aim to claim their eligible carried interest arising from Hong Kong investment management services (as prescribed in Schedule 16D to the Inland Revenue Ordinance (Cap.112)) will need to check item 9.6 included in the 2021/22 profits tax returns (particularly in BIR51 and BIR52). At the same time, attaching Supplementary Form S15 to the return.

• Engagement of service provider to furnish tax return

Another key change in the 2021/22 Profits Tax Returns announced by the IRD is to clarify the confirmation of a service provider’s involvement in preparing the taxpayer’s tax return. Section 51AAD(1) of the Inland Revenue Ordinance (Cap. 112) – stipulated the engagement of a service provider in furnishing tax returns for or on behalf of the taxpayer.

According to the modification, a service provider would need to:

• • Sign a tax return for and on behalf of the taxpayer before submitting it to the IRD
  • Complete the part (Part 13 of BIR51, Part 12 of BIR52, Part 9 of BIR54) where applicable of the tax return
  • File along with the 2021/22 profits tax return the Form IR 1476*

*Note that the confirmation must be retained for at least 7 years from the date on which the Profits Tax return is furnished by the service provider. 

The 2021/22 tax filing deadlines under the Block Extension Scheme

Hong Kong profits tax returns together with corresponding supplementary forms normally need to be submitted 1 month from the issuance date. Due to the application of the block extension scheme from the Hong Kong government this year, the tax filing deadlines for the 2021/22 profits tax return will be extended.

More than 200,000 profits tax returns for the year of assessment 2021/22 were issued to taxpayers on April 1, 2022. Following are the filing deadlines:

These modifications aim to enhance the business environment in Hong Kong, promote economic growth, and align with tax standards. Businesses must stay informed about these changes and ensure compliance with the updated tax regulations.