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Open a Company in China

China Company Registration

Completely confused about the process of China entity? Don’t worry. We are here to help.

We guide you through every step of the process and support company registration in all major Chinese cities. With extensive experience assisting thousands of foreign investors, we help you choose the optimal company structure and ensure a seamless incorporation journey.

Just tell us what you need, and let us do the rest. Start with one click.

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China company registration

Overview of opening a company

  • 1. Choose a Company Type:
    Decide on a WFOE, Joint Venture, or Representative Office.
  • 2. Submit Documents:
    Provide required paperwork to FDI China.
  • 3. Open a Bank Account:
    Set up a basic and capital account.
  • 4. Ensure Compliance:
    Automate post-registration tax reports and bookkeeping.

What Business Structure is Right for you?​

There are 3 legal entity types available to foreigners in China. Our experts will recommend the best and most suitable company type for your business as well as inform you whether or not additional licenses apply to your business operations. 

WFOE

A Wholly Foreign-Owned Enterprise (WFOE) allows foreign investors to fully own and operate a company without the need for a local partner. This entity offers full control over management, and the ability to conduct activities such as hiring staff, invoicing, and signing contracts in China.

Rep. Office

A Representative Office (RO) cannot engage in profit-making activities, but it can conduct market research, promote the parent company's products or services, and liaise with local partners. It's a cost-effective option for foreign businesses looking to explore the Chinese market or maintain a small local presence.

Joint Venture

A Joint Venture (JV) is a business arrangement where a foreign company partners with a Chinese entity to form a new company, sharing ownership, control, and profits. JVs are commonly used when entering restricted industries or when leveraging a local partner’s market knowledge, resources, or networks.

China Company Registration Procedure

1. Preparation

Deciding your company's structure and details.

2. Document submission

Collection and organizing your company registration application.

15 working days

3. Company registration

Application with the administration for Market Regulation (AMR). Your wholly owned foreign enterprise is registered and company chops issued.

15 working days

4. Corporate Accounts

Opening of your corporate bank account & tax accounts.

5. License applications

Application and issuance of additional licenses if applicable.

6. Post-registration support

Monthly tax & accounting reports for compliance.

Business system set up

After obtaining the business license and corporate bank account, FDI China initiates several essential mandatory setup procedures, including:

  • Setting up a social security account
  • Registering a tax account with the local tax authority
  • Implementing the financial management system

All-In-One Market Entry Package

FDI China’s All-In-One Market Entry Package is built for global enterprises ready to scale into China. From entity setup to full tax & HR compliance, we empower your business to thrive in the world’s most dynamic market, risk-free and ready for growth.

Company Registration

WFOE registration securing your business license, registered address and bank accounts.

Tax & Accounting Compliance

China accounting system setup. Monthly, quarterly & yearly reporting. Corporate annual tax return.

Payroll & HR Compliance

Payroll, benefits administration and ensuring full compliance for WFOEs with China’s labor laws.

Types of Companies you can Register in China

Consulting WFOE

For companies providing services in or from China.

A consulting WFOE is the most simple foreign-owned legal entity to set up. No additional licenses or certificates are needed. 

Trading WFOE

For companies importing into or exporting out of China.

Trading WFOEs are essentially consulting WFOEs armed with an import/export license and other licenses for specialty products. Trading companies can take advantage of Free Trade zones in Shanghai & Guangdong.

Manufacturing WFOE

For companies conducting manufacturing operations in China.

A manufacturing Wholly Foreign Owned Enterprise is a highly specialized WFOE that has passed safety and environmental government examinations in order to manufacture products in China. Ideal for assembling final or intermediate goods.

Representative Office

For companies conducting nonprofit activities.

A representative office is ideal for a nonprofit operation such as on-site customer support for existing clients, field research and/or marketing.

Joint Venture

For companies with foreign and Chinese shareholders.

A joint venture (JV) is a company with both foreign shareholders and Chinese shareholders. As of 2021, there is no % ownership limitation of any party in the JV. JVs are able to operate in more restrictive and higher liability business sectors within China.

More information on Company Registration in China

Our Working Process

1. Consultation & Proposal

We (can) 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.

Incorporation FAQs

Foreigners can register several types of companies in China, including:

Key requirements include:

  • A unique company name (approved by the local Administration for Market Regulation).
  • Stated registered capital (varies by business type).
  • A physical office address in China.
  • Legal representatives and shareholders’ information.
  • A business scope aligned with Chinese regulations.

The entire process typically takes 1-3 months, depending on:

  • The business structure.
  • Completeness of documents.
  • Specific location and administrative efficiency.

A Wholly Foreign-Owned Enterprise (WFOE) is a legal entity fully owned by foreign investors. It’s popular because:

  • It allows full control over operations.
  • It can issue invoices (fapiao) and engage in profit-making activities.
  • It protects intellectual property.
  • It permits hiring staff directly.

China does not mandate a minimum for many industries, but having sufficient capital demonstrates financial strength.

The registered capital amount varies based on industry and business location.

  • For general consulting WFOEs, RMB 100,000 to RMB 500,000 is common.
  • For manufacturing, logistics, or trading, it can exceed RMB 1 million.

Yes, in many cases, you can delegate the process to a local firm like FDI China. However, for opening a bank account, personal presence is required.

No, you don’t need a Chinese partner to register a WFOE. However, if you opt for a Joint Venture (JV), you must collaborate with a Chinese entity.

The legal representative is the person who has the authority to act on behalf of the company. They:

  • Sign key documents.
  • Represent the company in legal and financial matters.
  • Are responsible for the company’s compliance.
    This person can be a foreigner or a Chinese citizen.

The business scope defines the activities your company is legally allowed to perform in China. For example, “import/export trade” or “IT consulting services.”


A well-defined business scope ensures compliance and prevents issues during tax filing or licensing.

Yes, a foreign company can own property in China if it is registered locally as a WFOE or JV. Representative Offices (ROs), however, cannot directly own property.

Yes, if you plan to run an e-commerce website or any profit-generating online platform, you must obtain a commercial ICP license. Non-profit websites only require a standard ICP filing.

Yes, foreign companies can hire both local and foreign employees. To hire foreign staff, the company must provide a work permit and assist with the visa process.

Once registered, a company must:

  • File taxes monthly & quarterly.
  • Maintain proper accounting and auditing.
  • Follow labor laws for employee contracts and social insurance.

Yes, a company in China can send funds overseas.

The process depends on the nature of the transaction.

Payment for Goods or Services

  • Requirements:
    • A valid contract or invoice.
    • Proof of goods received or services rendered (e.g., customs declaration, shipping documents).
    • Proper documentation for foreign exchange approval.

Dividends Repatriation

  • Requirements:
    • The company must complete annual financial audits and profit distributions.
    • Corporate income tax must be settled.
    • Submission of supporting documents, including the audited financial report, board resolution, and tax payment certificates.

Royalties and Licensing Fees

  • Requirements:
    • A licensing or technical service agreement.
    • Tax clearance or proof of withholding tax payment.
    • SAFE approval, depending on the amount.

Employee Salaries and Benefits

  • Requirements:
    • Work permits and contracts for foreign employees.
    • Tax clearance certificates.

China uses a Negative List for Foreign Investment to outline restricted and prohibited industries.

  • Restricted industries: Foreign ownership may be limited to a joint venture with Chinese partners or capped at a certain percentage.
  • Prohibited industries: Foreign investment is outright banned.

Examples include specific areas of telecommunications, education, and cultural industries. Always review the latest Negative List as it is periodically updated.