Internet Content Provider

ICP License Registration

What is an ICP License?

An ICP license (Internet Content Provider license) is a mandatory license issued by the Chinese government for companies that want to operate websites or provide internet-based services in China. It is regulated by the Ministry of Industry and Information Technology (MIIT).

There are two main types of ICP licenses:

ICP Filing (备案): This is for non-commercial websites, such as informational websites or blogs. It’s a simpler process that involves registering the website with MIIT but doesn’t require a lot of documentation. It’s often used by companies that do not engage in e-commerce.
ICP Commercial License (ICP许可证) (ICP License): This is required for websites that engage in commercial activities, such as e-commerce sites, online services, or other revenue-generating activities. Companies need to submit more detailed documentation, including business licenses, to obtain this license.

The ICP license is crucial for foreign companies looking to establish an online presence in China, particularly if they plan to sell products or services online via platforms like Tmall, JD, Pinduoduo, Douyin, and Xiaohongshu. Without this license, websites cannot legally host content or operate in China.

ICP License Registration Process

The ICP Commercial License Registration process in China involves several key steps that must be followed to legally operate a commercial website or an e-commerce platform. Many host providers in China have their own ICP license application portals that will send your application to the MIIT.

1. Prepare Required Documentation

Before applying for an ICP Commercial License, ensure you have the following documents ready:

Business License: A copy of your company’s business license.
Company Legal Representative’s ID: A copy of the legal representative’s identification.
Domain Name Ownership: Proof of your domain name registration, as well as the domain’s administrator’s ID.
Website Content: A description or sample of the website content, showing that it complies with Chinese laws and regulations.
ICP Filing: To apply for a commercial ICP license you must already have the ICP Filing, you will provide this document as part of your application.

2. Apply for the ICP Commercial License

The application for an ICP Commercial License must be submitted to the Ministry of Industry and Information Technology (MIIT) or its local branch in the province where your company is located. The application can be done through the MIIT’s online portal or through an authorized third-party service provider. (Usually your host provider)

Review Process: The MIIT will review the application, which can take several weeks (usually around 20-30 business days). The review ensures that the website complies with Chinese laws, including content regulations, and that all documentation is in order.

If the application is rejected, the reasons for rejection will be communicated to you and you will be able to make the necessary changes to your application.

Approval and Issuance: If the application is approved, MIIT will issue the ICP Commercial License (ICP许可证) for your website. You will receive a license number, which you must display on your website, typically at the bottom of each page.

3. Register with Public Security Bureau

Within 30 days of receiving your ICP, you must apply for a Public Security Bureau (PSB) filing number. This is a criminal background check done via the Internet Security Administration of the National Public Security Bureau of China.

The PSB Filing number is usually (but not always) shown alongside the ICP license number at the footer of websites hosted in China.

Our Working Process

1. Consultation & Proposal

We advise you on the best solution for your business model and send you our comprehensive proposal.

2. Signing & Payment

After reviewing the proposal, we sign the service contract and receive your payment.

3. Preparing Documents

We send you an application form as well as the list of documents we need from your side.

FAQs

How many ICP licenses can I apply to with my local hosting account?

You can apply for additional ICP licenses for additional websites hosted on the same hosting plan. As long as the website administrator and owner are the same.

Do I need to apply for an ICP Filing to host a website in China?

If you want to host your website on a server in China then an ICP license is a must-have. You can choose to host your website on a server outside of China that people in China can access, but this comes with disadvantages regarding visibility and Baidu preferences.

Do I need to be physically present to apply for the ICP license?

All the steps in the ICP license application can be completed online.