A foreigner can register a wholly foreign-owned company in China in about seven steps: plan the activities and city, prepare passports and documents, secure a registered address, apply for the business licence, make the company seals, open the bank account, then complete tax and other registrations.
Once your documents are ready, the business licence is often issued within a few weeks. The full setup takes longer.
The seven steps
- Plan your activities, ownership and city
Decide what the company will do (its business scope), who the shareholders and legal representative are, and which city suits your suppliers, customers and any work permit plans.
- Prepare your documents
Usually your passport, which may need notarisation and an apostille or consular authentication depending on your country and the city. An overseas company shareholder needs its own corporate documents. Check the list before paying for notarisation.
- Secure a registered address
Choose an address that meets local registration rules. Park-based registered addresses are common for small companies; some activities need a real workspace.
- Apply for the business licence
Submit the name, business scope, address, capital and officer details to the local market regulator. Officers usually verify their identity online or in person.
- Make the company seals
Once the licence is issued, the official seals are made and filed. You need them to open the bank account and sign documents.
- Open the company bank account
Banks review the company, its owners and its planned transactions. The legal representative usually needs to attend in person.
- Complete tax and other registrations
Activate tax filing and invoicing, and register for social insurance if you hire staff. Traders also complete customs registration before importing or exporting.
After registration
- File taxes every month or quarter, including zero returns when there is no revenue
- Submit the annual report to the market regulator by 30 June each year
- Pay in the registered capital you chose, generally within five years
- Keep the address, bank account and records in order
What it costs
Our registration service is usually USD 300–500, and a registered address is usually USD 200–400 a year. With basic accounting for a simple company, the first year typically comes to about USD 900–1,400. See the full breakdown.
Related questions
Can I register a company without coming to China?
Much of it, yes. Planning, documents and filings can be handled remotely. The bank account usually needs the legal representative in person.
Do I need a degree to register a company?
No. There is no education requirement for owners or the legal representative. Read the guide for owners without a degree.
Do I need a Chinese partner?
Not for most ordinary activities. A foreigner can own 100% of the company where the sector allows it. Read about ownership.
Is there a minimum registered capital?
For most ordinary businesses there is no fixed minimum. Under the Company Law in force since July 2024, shareholders generally need to pay in the capital within five years, so choose an amount you can contribute.
This guide explains general practice based on Scott’s experience. Requirements depend on your city, nationality and circumstances, and the authorities make the final decision.