Medical Device Registration in Hong Kong
Government Authority
Medical Device registration in Hong Kong is managed by the Medical Device Division (MDD) of the Department of Health, formerly known as the Medical Device Control Office (MDCO).
Regulatory Efficiency
Currently, medical device registration is voluntary in Hong Kong for Class II and above medical devices and Class D IVD devices. While registration is voluntary, the Hospital Authority requires, or gives preference to, registered medical devices during public hospital tenders. Devices can be registered voluntarily through the Medical Device Administrative Control System (MDACS).
Medical Device Status
Products that make diagnostic, therapeutic, medical or rehabilitative claims are considered Medical Devices in Hong Kong. Devices with a drug component and devices that emit radiation or radio wave energy may be subject to additional non-medical ordinances.
Product Classification
Medical device classification closely follows the Global Harmonization Task Force (GHTF) classification guidelines, with Class I, II, III and IV designations ranked from low to high risk categorization. An effect method for classifying a device in Hong Kong is to see how a similar, or predicate device is currently registered. Click the following links to learn more classifying and grouping your devices in Hong Kong.
Device Conformity Assessment
Medical Device registration in Hong Kong requires a local conformity assessment conducted by a Conformity Assessment Body (CAB), of which three companies are currently qualified: BSI, SGS, and TUV SUD. Local conformity assessments require a MDACS form, Instruction for Use (IFU), summaries on available clinical data and, in certain cases, test reports or other data in addition to fees paid to the CAB.
Application processing time is about 12 weeks, with no associated processing fees.
Successful device applications will receive a listing number and be listed in the MDCO on-line database
Asia Actual maintains an easily searchable database and can provide manufacturers with data specific to their product’s AMDNS code and/or competitors.
Quality Systems Conformity Assessment
ISO 13485 or FDA Establishment Inspection Report is required to register all classes of devices.
Exceptions to Local Conformity Assessment Requirements
Applicants may submit reference country approval in lieu of undergoing a local conformity assessment by a CAB.
Reference Countries
Australia – Canada – European Union – Japan – United States
Expedited Approval Scheme
Formalized in January 2022, the Expedited Approval Scheme (previously a trial scheme) provides qualifying Class II, III, and IV applications with a quicker review. Products will need to have 2 Reference Country approvals, no serious adverse events, and no ongoing adverse events. Reference Countries include the US, Canada, Europe, Australia, Japan, China, and Korea (trial until Dec. 31, 2022) The MDD’s formal guidance can be found here under GN-02. Official review times have not been provided yet but the MDD assures manufacturers that the applications will receive a more expedited review.
Validity and Renewal
Listings are valid for 5 years and are renewed through a straightforward administrative process.
License Holder Requirements
A Licensed Local Responsible Person must submit the registration application(s) and hold the license after but does not need to be part of the importing process.
License Transfer
Medical device registration applications must be submitted by a local entity that also acts as license holder, or Local Responsible Person (LRP). The LRP is the key point of contact for the MDD when it comes to the device listing. Target timelines for application processing is 12 weeks. There are no MDD fees to process the change application.
A change application is required with the following documents:
- “Transfer Form” signed by current LRP, Asia Actual Hong Kong and client
- LRP Designation Letter from client to Asia Actual Hong Kong
- Supporting documentation (from client)
- ISO 13485
- EC Certificate
- Product labeling (representative sample)
- Supporting documentation from Asia Actual
- LRP Documentation procedure
- Asia Actual’s original Business Registration (BR) license
Benefits of Using Asia Actual as Your Independent License Holder
- Sell directly to multiple regional distributors (avoiding mark-up by a national importer)
- Increase transfer pricing
- Improve leverage in distributor negotiations/responses
- Add or change distributors as required
- Keep intellectual property away from local commercial agents
- Easy, expedited registrations for distributors
- Assure expert handling of post market vigilance and license maintenance
Contact Asia Actual for assistance with your medical device registration in Hong Kong or to confirm the cost and time lines that apply to your specific devices of interest. Asia Actual has experienced, bi-lingual consultants in Hong Kong to manage the application, importing, and post-market surveillance needs.
Bryan’s Regulatory Hint
“Registering your medical device through the voluntary system is beneficial, because Hong Kong’s Hospital Authority gives preference to registered medical devices.”
Contact Us
US: +1 512 898-9222
SG: +65 3138-4148
EMAIL: Hongkong@asiaactual.com
Latest Market Updates
Hong Kong’s MDD Formalizes Expedited Approval SchemeJanuary 21, 2022 - 2:27 pm- NMPA to Pilot Program Allowing Hong Kong Approved Products to Be Sold in Mainland ChinaDecember 16, 2020 - 4:59 pm
- Voluntary Medical Device Registration in Hong KongJuly 10, 2020 - 11:17 pm
- HONG KONG EXTENDS PILOT PROGRAM TO RECOGNIZE CHINA AND KOREA AS REFERENCE COUNTRIESJune 10, 2020 - 8:00 pm
- MEDICAL DEVICES SHIPMENTS DURING THE COVID-19 PANDEMICJune 4, 2020 - 8:28 pm
Frequently Asked Questions
Do I need to register my medical device in Hong Kong?
No, as of April 2022, registration in Hong Kong is currently voluntary though there are plans to begin requiring registration in the near future. While registration is technically voluntary, manufacturers that intend to sell to public hospitals will need to register their products before they can take part in public tenders which accounts for ~90% of hospital purchases.
Who can submit submit applications in Hong Kong?
A local entity must submit applications, hold the license, and correspond with the Medical Device Division (aka MDD; formerly known as the Medical Device Control Office (MDCO). License Holders do not need to be part of the importing process.
How are products classified in Hong Kong?
Medical device classification closely follows the Global Harmonization Task Force (GHTF) classification guidelines, with Class I, II, III and IV designations ranked from low to high risk categorization. An effect method for classifying a device in Hong Kong is to see how a similar, or predicate device is currently registered. Click the following links to learn more classifying and grouping your devices in Hong Kong.
How long does it take to register my medical device in Hong Kong?
Currently, the MDD is short staffed and dealing with COVID which has delayed review times. At this time, it’s expected that applications with reference country approval will be approved in 10-15 months. Contact us for the latest timelines.
How much does it cost to register my device in Hong Kong?
As of April 2022, the MDD does not charge any review fees.
How long are medical device licenses valid in Hong Kong?
Listings are valid for 5 years and are renewed through a straightforward administrative process.
Does the license holder need to be a part of the importing process?
No, license holders do not need to be part of the importing process as of April 2022.
Is there an expedited review pathway in Hong Kong?
Yes, there is an expedited review process in Hong Kong. Formalized in January 2022, the Expedited Approval Scheme (previously a trial scheme) provides qualifying Class II, III, and IV applications with a quicker review. Products will need to have 2 Reference Country approvals, no serious adverse events, and no ongoing adverse events. Reference Countries include the US, Canada, Europe, Australia, Japan, China, and Korea (trial until Dec. 31, 2022) The MDD’s formal guidance can be found here under GN-02. Official review times have not been provided yet but the MDD assures manufacturers that the applications will receive a more expedited review.
Is ISO 13485 required for medical devices in Hong Kong?
Yes, ISO 13485 or FDA Establishment Inspection Report is required to register all classes of devices.
Is Home Country approval required?
No, there are no requirements for home country approval but Reference Country approval can expedite the review process.
Do documents need to be translated as part of the application process?
No, application documents can be submitted in English.