China Business Registration Services

To register a business in China, follow these steps:

• Choose a Business Structure: Decide whether to register as a Wholly Foreign-Owned Enterprise (WFOE), Joint Venture (JV), or Representative Office (RO).
• Company Name Registration: Submit a proposed company name to the local Administration for Market Regulation (AMR).
• Obtain Approval: Depending on the industry, obtain approval from the relevant authorities (e.g., Ministry of Commerce).
• Prepare Documentation: Prepare necessary documents, including Articles of Association, lease agreements, and identification documents of investors and directors.
• Register with AMR: Submit the required documents to the local AMR for registration.
• Obtain Business License: Once approved, obtain a business license from the AMR.
• Post-Registration Formalities: Register with the tax bureau, open a bank account, and complete any additional industry-specific requirements.

You can check if a company is registered in China through the National Enterprise Credit Information Publicity System (NECIPS). This online platform provides access to company registration information, including business licenses, shareholders, and annual reports.

A company's business registration number in China is a unique 18-digit code known as the Unified Social Credit Code (USCC). This code is used to identify a business entity in various government databases and documents.

The cost of registering a company in China can vary based on the type of business and location. Generally, the costs include:

• Government Fees: Approximately RMB 1,000 to RMB 2,000 for company registration.
• Office Rental and Other Expenses: Costs for leasing office space and other administrative expenses.

The process of registering a company in China typically takes 1 to 2 months. This timeline includes company name approval, document preparation, submission to the AMR, obtaining the business license, and opening a bank account. The administrative procedure in itself now only takes 2 to 3 days.

Business tax rates in China vary based on the type of business and location. Key taxes include:

• Corporate Income Tax (CIT): 25% standard rate, with potential reductions for small and medium-sized enterprises (SMEs).
• Value-Added Tax (VAT): Standard rate is 13% for most goods and services, with lower rates for certain items. Smaller rates apply to small taxpayers.
• Individual Income Tax (IIT): Progressive rates from 3% to 45% on personal income.

No visa is needed to start a business in China. If you intend to live in China, a foreigner typically needs an "M" visa (for commercial and trade activities) or a "Z" visa (for employment). After entering China, you can apply for a work permit and residence permit to legally stay and conduct business activities.

The cost of starting a business in China is relatively reasonable. It depends on factors such as location, industry, and business structure. Expenses include registration fees, legal and consulting fees, office rental, and initial capital requirements. The cost may be lower compared to other major global markets.

Yes, foreigners can start a business in China. They can establish Wholly Foreign-Owned Enterprises (WFOEs), Joint Ventures (JVs) with Chinese partners, or Representative Offices (ROs). Each type has different legal requirements and restrictions.

The best type of business in China depends on your industry, goals, and resources. Popular options include:

• Wholly Foreign-Owned Enterprise (WFOE): Provides full control and flexibility for foreign investors.
• Joint Venture (JV): Useful for leveraging local partners' knowledge and resources.

Representative Office (RO): Suitable for market research and establishing a presence without full-scale operations.