Generally speaking, "juridical persons" (including companies, partnerships and sole proprietorships) as well as "natural persons" of Hong Kong will be able to enjoy preferential treatment granted by the Mainland under CEPA, provided that they fulfil the definition and related requirements of Hong Kong service suppliers (HKSS). Unless otherwise specified in CEPA, a "natural person" means a Hong Kong permanent resident, whereas a "juridical person" means any legal entity duly constituted or organised under the applicable laws of Hong Kong and which has engaged in substantive business operations in Hong Kong.
HKSS who wants to obtain CEPA treatment as a natural person is not required to apply for a Hong Kong Service Supplier Certificate (HKSS Certificate). He or she should provide to the relevant Mainland authorities identification of his or her Hong Kong permanent resident status. He or she should also provide his or her Home Visit Permit or HKSAR passport if he or she is a Chinese citizen. Copies of the identification documents should be attested by a China appointed attesting officer recognised by the Mainland.
HKSS as a juridical person should apply to this Department for the HKSS Certificate before it can apply to the relevant Mainland authorities for providing services in the Mainland with preferential treatment under CEPA. Applicant should furnish this Department with an application form, a copy of statutory declaration attested by a China appointed attesting officer recognised by the Mainland, as well as other relevant supporting documents. Application procedures for HKSS Certificate are set out in the Notice to Service Suppliers.