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How to Register a Company in China as a Foreigner?

June 12, 2026

Foreigners typically register a Wholly Foreign-Owned Enterprise (WFOE) in China for full control, as joint ventures or rep offices limit operations. The process involves the State Administration for Market Regulation (SAMR, formerly AMR) and takes 1-3 months, varying by city and sector, with no minimum capital but a 5-year contribution deadline.

Pre-Registration Prep

Choose a Chinese-only company name in format like “Location + Brand + Industry + Ltd.” and secure pre-approval from local SAMR (1-3 days). Secure a physical registered office lease (virtual addresses often accepted initially) and prepare notarized/legalized documents: passports, Articles of Association, legal rep appointment, feasibility report if needed.

Core Registration Steps

Submit to SAMR: name reservation, docs, business scope (check negative list for restrictions), registered capital details—approval issues Business License in 5-10 days. Carve company chops at Public Security Bureau, register with tax bureau for fapiao and ID, and SAFE for forex.

Post-Licensing Setup

Open RMB basic and foreign currency capital accounts to inject capital. Register for social security, customs (if trading), and apply for Z-work visas/residence permits for staff. File annual reports via National Enterprise Credit System and maintain compliance.

Key Considerations

Negative list prohibits/restricts sectors like media/telecom; apostille simplifies doc legalization post-2023 Hague accession. Use agents for translations/local navigation; timelines faster in hubs like Shanghai/Shenzhen.

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Tannet Group Limited was founded in Hong Kong in 1999, now is in its sixth five-year development plan stage, and setting the upcoming two five-year plans. Over the past 28 years, the Group has experienced significant growth and development, serves a diverse client base of over 100,000 customers from more than 130 countries. Tannet has been always devoted to providing with business solutions for investors all across the world. Should you have further inquiry, pls feel free to contact Tannet at 852-2783 7818, email to gary.tannet@gmail.com, visit our website http://www.tannethk.com.

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