If you're a freelancer in Hong Kong, adding FPS (Faster Payment System) details to your invoices makes it dramatically easier for clients to pay you — and faster for you to get paid. Here's everything you need to know about creating professional HK invoices with FPS.
Why FPS matters: Over 80% of HK bank-to-bank transfers now go through FPS. Clients can pay you instantly from any HK bank app using just your FPS mobile number or ID. No SWIFT codes, no branch codes, no delays.
There's no single legal format required for freelance invoices in HK, but a professional invoice should include:
| Field | Notes |
|---|---|
| Invoice number | Sequential (e.g. INV-2026-001). Essential for record-keeping. |
| Invoice date | Date issued — affects payment terms calculation. |
| Due date | Standard is Net 30. Shorter terms improve cashflow. |
| Your name / business name | As registered with the IRD. |
| Your contact details | Email, phone, address (optional for sole props). |
| Client name and address | Full legal name for their records. |
| Description of services | Be specific — helps with client approval and disputes. |
| Amount in HKD | HK$ or HKD. Include subtotals if multiple line items. |
| FPS payment details | Mobile number or FPS ID linked to your bank account. |
FPS (Faster Payment System) allows instant transfers between HK banks. To accept FPS payments:
Pro tip: Most HK freelancers use their personal mobile number as their FPS ID — it's the simplest identifier and works across all HK banks. Avoid using your HKID as FPS ID on invoices sent to new clients.
A common question: should you add tax to your invoice? For most HK freelancers, the answer is no.
Hong Kong does not have GST or VAT. Profits Tax is paid separately to the IRD by the business owner — it is not collected from clients on invoices. Your invoice total is simply your agreed fee.
This is different from most Western countries and can confuse international clients. A brief note on your invoice — "No VAT/GST applicable in Hong Kong" — prevents misunderstandings.
Here's a simple invoice structure that works for HK freelancers:
| Description | Amount |
|---|---|
| Brand strategy consultation — May 2026 | HK$18,000 |
| Total due | HK$18,000 |
Every invoice needs a unique sequential number. This is essential for your accounting records, tax filings, and resolving payment disputes.
Without a due date, clients treat payment as optional timing. "Net 14" or "Net 30" from invoice date is standard in HK.
Bank transfer instructions (sort code, account number) are slow and error-prone. FPS is instant and uniquely HK — use it.
Always send invoices as PDFs. Word documents can be edited and look unprofessional. Lock the format before sending.
Flo HK generates professional Hong Kong invoices with FPS payment details, tracks payment status, and reminds you of overdue clients — all free to try.
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If you're earning regular freelance income, yes — you should register as a sole proprietor with the HK Companies Registry (HK$250/year). This gives you a BR number to include on invoices and ensures you're compliant with IRD reporting requirements.
Yes. Many HK freelancers invoice international clients in USD or EUR. Just ensure your bank account can receive the relevant currency and note the currency clearly on the invoice.
The IRD requires you to keep business records for at least 7 years. Store invoices digitally (PDF) with a consistent naming convention for easy retrieval during tax assessments.