In the current global environment, the scope of professional opportunities has significantly expanded. As industries progress and professionals are tasked with navigating diverse markets and adhering to international standards, it is imperative to broaden one’s network and stay ahead of emerging opportunities.
In this context, the Hong Kong Institute of CPAs (HKICPA) and the Association of Chartered Certified Accountants (ACCA) have entered a partnership that will grant its respective members fee waivers for admission to each other’s memberships. This partnership, established to commemorate ACCA’s 120th anniversary, offers a unique opportunity for members of both organizations to unlock global benefits and complement their existing memberships.
This collaboration empowers members of both organizations to propel their careers forward and marks a significant opportunity towards creating a more interconnected professional community.
The agreement
Under this agreement, HKICPA members can join ACCA with a full waiver on the new member admission fee, valued at £297 (see here). Similarly, eligible ACCA members who join the HKICPA under the current Mutual Recognition Agreement (MRA) will enjoy a waiver of the application fee, worth HK$3,100. This special collaboration is valid until 31 May 2025.
To qualify for direct admission to ACCA membership, HKICPA members must hold HKICPA membership through the HKICPA’s Qualification Programme (QP). It is important to note that members must maintain memberships with both HKICPA and ACCA to benefit from the admission fee waiver. The ACCA offers a detailed FAQs page for further details.
Why you should take advantage
The HKICPA and ACCA collaboration offers exclusive dual membership benefits that elevate members’ careers with unique advantages that complement their existing membership. By joining ACCA, HKICPA members can access ACCA’s trusted global professional network dedicated to public good and take advantage of a wealth of continuing professional development opportunities and technical resources available to ACCA members to stay informed on the latest trends shaping the profession. With ACCA’s extensive global reach and recognition, members benefit from excellent employability across borders, making it an ideal choice for those aspiring to advance their careers internationally.
Meanwhile, joining the HKICPA offers significant advantages for ACCA members looking to enhance their professional standing and career prospects in Hong Kong and beyond. The HKICPA membership permits the use of the “CPA” designation in Hong Kong, and as the local standard setter for the profession in Hong Kong, the Institute provides access to resources that include technical updates, practice guidance, and professional training resources about the developments and applications of the latest standards. The Institute also partners with overseas and Mainland accounting bodies to offer eligible members exemptions from professional qualification exams.
For ACCA members, becoming part of the HKICPA not only enhances their qualifications but also opens doors to global opportunities and specialized training, making it a strategic step for professional growth in a dynamic and competitive environment.
Edward Au, President of the HKICPA (left) and Stanley Ho, Chairman of ACCA Hong Kong (right).
Building a professional community
The collaboration between HKICPA and ACCA is designed to enhance professional development and create valuable opportunities for members of both organizations under the existing MRA. This unique opportunity allows members to complement their memberships, enhance their professional credentials, and provide more pathways to grow their careers.
Edward Au, President of the HKICPA, believes this collaboration represents a significant step towards creating a more interconnected professional community. “This collaboration between the HKICPA and ACCA is a remarkable opportunity for members of both organizations to unlock global benefits and complement their existing memberships. At the Institute, we believe that collaboration is key to unlocking new opportunities for our members. This partnership with ACCA not only enhances our professional offerings but also empowers both memberships to thrive in an everchanging landscape. By expanding your credentials and networks, our members are equipping ourselves to meet the challenges of today and tomorrow, ensuring they remain at the forefront of the accounting profession.”
Stanley Ho, Chairman of ACCA Hong Kong, said, “This exclusive offer is a key part of our celebration of ACCA’s 120th anniversary and our milestone of reaching 250,000 members worldwide in 2024. We’re thrilled to partner with HKICPA by waiving the new member admission fee, empowering members from both bodies to enjoy the advantages of dual membership. This collaboration aligns perfectly with ACCA’s commitment to fostering professional excellence and expanding global possibilities for our peers within the local industry. As we navigate the complexities of a rapidly evolving landscape, joining ACCA provides vital resources and support, ensuring we stay at the forefront of emerging fields such as sustainability and AI.”
“As we enter the new year, we also commemorate ACCA’s 75 years of heritage and growth in Hong Kong. This marks a new era and presents a fresh opportunity for ACCA and HKICPA to join forces in making a positive impact within our profession in our hometown,” Ho added.
Don’t miss out on this opportunity to expand your global professional network and take your career to new heights. Apply now and be part of a global professional community committed to creating a better world filled with opportunities.