Chinese Company Registration Guide
Essential guidance for foreigners starting a business in China
Whether you're exporting Chinese products, importing goods into China, manufacturing locally, or
offering services within the country, our guide provides clear, practical steps to help you register
your company and operate legally.
Table of Contents
Table of Contents
Why Use This Guide
Save time, avoid mistakes, and stay compliant
Everything you need to confidently register your company in China, explained step by step.
- Clear, actionable steps. No legal jargon or confusing instructions - just a straightforward process explained in plain language.
- Avoid common pitfalls. Learn from real-world experience: know what slows registrations down and how to stay compliant after setup.
- Made for non-Chinese founders. Clear guidance on choosing the right company type, selecting the best registration location, and opening a suitable bank account with all necessary links.
- Up-to-date with Chinese regulations. The guide reflects the latest 2025 laws and local practices, helping you avoid outdated or incorrect information.

Full Table of Contents
Strategic Planning
3
Purpose of Company Registration
3
Choosing a Registration Location, Special Economic
Zones
4
Preparation for Registration
6
Company Types and Registered Capital
6
Founder and Legal Representative
7
Real-ID Policy and Foreigners
8
Chinese Phone Number and WeChat
8
Visas and Invitations to Enter China
8
Company Registration
9
Registration Authorities
9
Choosing an Office Space
9
Preliminary Registration
10
Choosing a Company Name
11
Shareholders
11
Submitting Original Documents
12
Obtaining the Business License and Company Seals
12
Finalizing the Process
12
Banks and Accounts
13
Choosing a Bank and Types of Accounts
13
Opening a Basic Settlement Account
14
Taxes, Employees, and Reporting
14
Tax Registration
14
Social Insurance
15
Hiring Chinese and Foreign Employees
15
Accounting and Mandatory Reporting
15
Export, Import, and Customs
16
Customs Registration and Foreign Trade Participant
Number
16
Working with Customs Brokers
16
Company Setup Completion Checklist
16
Useful Links
19
Pricing
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