How to Register a Company in Shanghai as a Foreigner

If a foreign investor wants to start a business in Shanghai, the most common option is a Wholly Foreign-Owned Enterprise (WFOE).A WFOE is fully owned by foreign investor(s) and can legally operate, sign contracts, hire staff, and generate revenue in China.

Common Company Types

Foreign investors usually choose from three structures:

1. Wholly Foreign-Owned Enterprise (WFOE)

100% foreign-owned, allowed to conduct business and earn profits. This is the most common choice.

2. Joint Venture (JV)

Established together with a Chinese partner, with shared ownership and profits.

3. Representative Office (RO)

Only for liaison and market research. It cannot directly generate revenue.

Key Information to Decide First

Before registration, you need to confirm:

• Company name
• Business scope
• Registered capital
• Legal representative
• Shareholder information
• Registered address

A commercial address is usually required.

Main Documents Required

For an individual foreign investor:

• Passport copy
• Notarized/authenticated passport documents
• Appointment letter for the legal representative

For a foreign corporate shareholder:

• Certificate of incorporation
• Articles of association
• Board resolution

Overseas documents usually need notarization and authentication before use in China.

Basic Registration Process

1. Company name approval
2. Submit registration application
3. Obtain business license
4. Carve company seals
5. Open bank accounts
6. Complete tax registration
7. Apply for additional licenses if needed

Timeline

• Business license: about 10–15 working days
• Full setup: around 1–3 months(including Tax registration and opening bank accounts)

Contact Us

Tannet Group Limited is in its sixth five-year development plan stage, and setting the upcoming two five-year plans. 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 Shanghai Tannet at 0086-18101649652, email to tianyinong@tannet-group.com, or visit our website https://tannet-group.net/.