【Direct Summary】
Planning to start an F&B business in Hong Kong? Applying for a Food and Environmental Hygiene Department (FEHD) license is your first hurdle. In 2026, processing takes 3-8 months with a 38% rejection rate. The key to success: Ensure your shop location meets fire and ventilation standards (exhaust pipes must reach the roof), prepare precise 1:100 floor plans, and utilize the newly mandatory BIM 3D plans.

“Over 38% of beginners fail because of non-compliant exhaust pipes or lacking independent utility meters. Always consult Midland IC&I professionals to assess a shop’s licensing viability before signing the lease!”

2026 Hong Kong Food License Fee & Requirement Quick Guide

(Note: Fees are waived for licenses taking effect between Nov 2025 and Oct 31, 2026, under the Policy Address).

• Bakery Licence (≤100㎡): $2,710/year. For handmade bakeries.
• Cold Storage Licence (≤200㎡): $7,520/year. Requires IoT temperature control.
• Food Factory Licence (≤100㎡): $3,740/year. For takeaways, sauces, and cakes.
• Liquor Licence (Restaurants): $1,990/year.

Top 5 Reasons for License Rejection

1. Exhaust pipes do not reach the roof directly.
2. Lack of independent water/electricity meters.
3. Floor plans are not in the exact 1:100 scale.
4. Missing Government Lease declaration forms.
5. Unapproved temperature loggers for cold storage.

Frequently Asked Questions

Q1: How long does it take to apply for a food license in Hong Kong in 2026?
A: It generally takes 3 to 8 months. The exact timeframe depends on the site conditions and document completeness. To speed up the process, the FEHD has made BIM 3D floor plans mandatory for new applications starting in 2026. Utilizing the online system can significantly shorten the approval time for a provisional license.

Q2: Why are FEHD food license applications commonly rejected?
A: Up to 38% of applications are rejected, mostly due to “hardware non-compliance.” The top 5 reasons are:

1. Exhaust pipes do not reach the roof directly or have unauthorized bends.
2. The shop lacks independent water or electricity meters.
3. Floor plans are not drawn to the exact 1:100 scale.
4. Missing Government Lease declaration forms.
5. Using temperature loggers (for cold storage) that are not approved by the FEHD.
   (Expert Tip: Always consult Midland IC&I to assess a shop before signing a lease.)

Q3: Do I need a license to sell frozen meat, oysters, or homemade cakes online?
A: Yes, absolutely! Under the law, selling items like frozen meat or raw oysters online requires a “Restricted Food Permit” from the FEHD. Fortunately, as of 2026, you can apply for a “Comprehensive Online Permit,” which allows you to sell multiple categories of restricted foods under a single permit, greatly simplifying the process.

Q4: Can I apply for a food license and a liquor license at the same time?
A: Yes, they can be processed simultaneously. You can apply for a restaurant license and a liquor license at the same time, but you must submit a separate liquor sales plan and proof of storage facilities to the Liquor Licensing Board. The annual fee for a standard restaurant liquor license is approximately $1,990.

Q5: What are the new FEHD policies and fee concessions in 2026?
A: The main highlights for 2026 are “fee waivers” and “digitalization.” According to the Policy Address, food business licenses and restricted food permits taking effect between Nov 1, 2025, and Oct 31, 2026, will have their annual fees waived. Additionally, IoT temperature control systems are now mandatory for cold storage licenses, and a new joint-department review mechanism for outdoor seating can grant approvals in as fast as one month.

📢 Contact Midland IC&I Today

Finding the right shop is half the battle won. Midland IC&I offers the most comprehensive commercial property listings in Hong Kong. Contact us today to find a fully compliant space for your F&B business!