Where do I check an estate agent's licence in Hong Kong?
Use the Estate Agents Authority (EAA) Licence List (opens in a new tab), which holds certain information on licences that are currently valid. It covers individual licensees and companies.
The EAA's licensing page (opens in a new tab) says anyone practising estate agency work in the course of business in Hong Kong must hold a valid estate agent's licence, and anyone acting as a salesperson must also hold a valid licence.
Last updated: October 2026 · Last checked: 19 October 2026.
What are the steps to search the EAA Licence List?
The EAA sets out four steps on the Licence List page. Enter only one search item at a time:
- Enter one of: the Licence No. or SPOB No. (for example E-123456, C-024680 or E-123456-A000), the Licensee Name, or the Business Name.
- For an individual, type the surname first, then the other names (for example Chan Tai Man).
- Enter the security code shown on the page.
- Press Search; the result appears below the Search and Reset buttons.
What is the difference between the Licence List and the EAA register?
The Licence List is a quick check, not the statutory register. The EAA states the list is not the Register under section 13 of the Estate Agents Ordinance; the register (opens in a new tab) also records licence periods, suspensions or revocations and registered addresses.
| Licence List (online) | Register (s.13) | |
|---|---|---|
| Shows | Currently valid licences only | Names, licence numbers, licence periods, suspension or revocation dates, registered addresses |
| Where | EAA website | EAA office, Room 2601, 26/F, Hopewell Centre, 183 Queen's Road East, Wanchai |
| Cost | Free search | Inspection free; copy or extract HK$150 per licence record |
What licences do Hong Kong estate agents need?
There are two types of licence: a salesperson's licence and an estate agent's licence. Estate agents must also obtain a statement of particulars of business (SPOB) for each place of business under each business name before carrying on business, the EAA says.
A licence expires on the date shown on it and may carry conditions, be suspended or be revoked. The EAA states that failing to hold a required licence is an offence with a maximum penalty of two years' imprisonment and a HK$500,000 fine.
Need help marketing a property business in Hong Kong?
Property buyers check licences before they reply to an ad, so the licence and SPOB numbers in your marketing should match the EAA record. shakalakaa runs Meta ads in Hong Kong, as well as performance marketing in Hong Kong for lead-driven businesses.