Register company in China

Fionza Consultants offers comprehensive support for registering your company in China, including services such as China company registration, corporate bank account setup, and handling accounting and tax responsibilities. We provide an all-in-one solution to help you establish your business in China within legal guidelines.

China

Company Registration – 3 Week
Local Director? – Yes
Bank Account Opening – 4 Weeks
Travel Required – No

Register company in China

Experience a hassle-free company registration process in China with Fionza Consultants.

China’s booming economy and strategic location have made it an enticing destination for establishing your corporate presence. Streamlining business setup, the recent introduction of the “5-in-1” business license expedites the registration procedure. Given these advantages, it’s no wonder that many entrepreneurs opt to register a company in China.

Our comprehensive service package covers all your needs for incorporating your business in China:

Company registration with the State Administration of Industry and Commerce
Local company secretary and registered address services
Corporate bank account setup
Financial license application assistance
Annual accounting and tax services

Choose Fionza Consultants for a seamless journey towards setting up your business in China.

How long to register company in China and open a corporate bank account?

Fionza Consultants guarantees a swift company incorporation process in China, typically accomplished within 2 weeks. Upon receiving the necessary due diligence documents from directors and shareholders, we promptly initiate the process, including verifying the availability of your desired company name and preparing the requisite incorporation documents.

Our commitment to providing non-travel solutions ensures you can navigate the registration process seamlessly. Once the setup is finalized, we will dispatch the essential company documents, including the Certificate of Incorporation and the Memorandum and Articles of Association, to your chosen address via courier.

Furthermore, as part of our services, Fionza Consultants will facilitate the opening of a corporate bank account on your behalf, a process that typically takes approximately 4 weeks to complete. We specialize in delivering non-travel banking solutions to meet your convenience.

With Fionza Consultants, you can anticipate a fully established and business-ready company within just 6 weeks from the commencement of our engagement. Experience a hassle-free setup for your China-based company.

Can a foreigner register company in China?

China has significantly liberalized its financial sector by removing most protectionist foreign ownership restrictions. As of July 23, 2020, full foreign ownership became permissible in securities, fund management, futures, and life insurance companies. This change has streamlined the process for foreign company registration in China, thanks to the creation of a dedicated structure for foreign investors called the Wholly Foreign-owned Enterprise (WFOE). This LLC-type entity is notably more accessible for foreign owners to establish and oversee.

The Foreign Investment Law of 2020 extends legal protection to these foreign investments, ensuring they enjoy the same rights and guarantees as domestic investments. This legal certainty is crucial for both attracting and retaining foreign investors.

It’s worth noting, however, that despite these positive developments, certain restrictions persist. The Special Administrative Measures for the Access of Foreign Investment continue to apply, with approximately 33 sectors subject to limitations on foreign ownership and investment. Additionally, Free Trade Pilot Zones impose similar restrictions on approximately 30 sectors. Some specific industries, such as agriculture, rare earth mining, or domestic transport, require Chinese companies to maintain a controlling stake.

Navigating these nuances is essential for foreign investors looking to establish a presence in China.

How to register company in China?

Discover the Step-by-Step Process to Register Your Company and Set Up a Bank Account in China with Fionza Consultants:

Step 1: Choose the Right Corporate Entity Fionza Consultants begins by understanding your business goals and activities. Our dedicated consultants recommend the most suitable corporate entity for your business. We provide guidance on paid-up share capital, corporate structure, relevant legislations, and the necessity of licenses for your operations.

Step 2: Reserve Your Company Name Select a unique name for your business, and Fionza Consultants will reserve it with the local Administration of Industry and Commerce. Approval typically takes 2-15 days.

Step 3: Prepare Necessary Documents Before we can proceed with your company incorporation in China, you must provide a list of required KYC (Know Your Customer) documents, including director names and identification proof. Fionza Consultants will then draft and notarize your company’s Memorandum and Articles of Association, customized according to your business activity and structure. We can also provide translation services if needed, and ensure compliance with Chinese laws by setting up a registered office.

Step 4: File for Registration We initiate the registration process with the Ministry of Commerce (MOFCOM) and the State Administration of Industry and Commerce (SAIC). Once approved, we’ll send you the Certificate of Incorporation, China company registration certificate, Memorandum and Articles of Association, and other corporate documents. You’ll also receive your registration number.

Step 5: Obtain Business Licenses In alignment with the newly amended legislation, we apply for a comprehensive “5-in-1” China business license. This includes licenses relevant to your industry, an organization code, a tax registration certificate, a social security registration certificate, and a statistical registration certificate.

Step 6: Secure a Company Seal After successful incorporation, you’ll need to register with the Public Security Bureau to obtain a specialized company seal, required for authorizing legal and corporate documents.

Step 7: Open a Corporate Bank Account Fionza Consultants assists you in setting up a corporate bank account, collaborating with reputable banks in China such as Bank of China, Industrial and Commercial Bank of China, China Construction Bank, and Agricultural Bank of China. Typically, this process takes about four weeks, with directors and shareholders not always required to travel. We can negotiate with banks for alternatives like conference calls or waivers if travel is necessary.

Step 8: Register with the Tax Bureau We help you register with China’s Tax Bureau and obtain CFO verification and other essential taxation information.

Step 9: Fulfill Financial Reporting and Taxation Obligations Fionza Consultants ensures you meet financial reporting and taxation requirements, offering services like preparing financial statements, corporate tax returns, and managing bookkeeping. Corporate tax rates typically hover around 25%, though subsidies may apply to non-resident firms on China-sourced income and small to medium enterprises. Withholding tax applies to non-resident firms generating income in China. We help you submit Income Tax Returns along with audited accounts to the relevant department, keeping your company compliant with regulatory obligations.

Rely on our dedicated team to address any questions or concerns you may have regarding your company’s obligations. Let Fionza Consultants guide you through a seamless company registration and setup process in China.

Type of business entities in China

In China, various business structures offer distinct levels of personal liability protection, tax implications, ownership flexibility, management options, privacy policies, and compliance requirements. Fionza Consultants begins by thoroughly understanding your business activities, considering factors such as the nature of your business, tax obligations, and the nationalities of shareholders and directors. We also provide detailed information on the requirements associated with setting up these entities.

1. Sole Proprietorship: Sole proprietorships are operated by a single Chinese citizen and do not provide liability protection. Despite their ease of incorporation and lack of minimum capital requirements, they offer limited benefits.

2. Partnership: Partnerships can be general or limited, but neither type offers liability protection. General partnerships hold all partners liable, while limited partnerships limit liability to the general partner but restrict their management involvement.

3. Limited Liability Company (LLC): LLCs create a separate legal entity with directors and shareholders protected from personal liability. Conditions for setting up an LLC include having fewer than fifty members, a registered office in China, and no specific minimum capital requirement.

4. Company Limited by Shares: Similar to public limited companies, these entities have stricter reporting and incorporation requirements, enabling listing for faster capital acquisition. Compliance includes a two-tier board structure, regular shareholder meetings, and enhanced financial reporting and auditing.

5. Branch Company: Branch companies are not separate legal entities and extend the liability of the foreign parent company. They are suitable for expanding existing businesses in China, with no minimum capital requirement and standard financial reporting and tax obligations.

6. Representative Office: Although not a legal business entity, a Representative Office represents a foreign company in China, offering a limited presence. It’s suitable for market research, liaising with Chinese suppliers, or exploring the Chinese market. A Representative Office does not have its own legal personality, and the foreign company assumes liability. No minimum capital input is required.

Specific Types of Companies:

7. Wholly Foreign-Owned Enterprises (WFOE): WFOEs allow full foreign ownership, offering greater flexibility and control over operations. While there’s no fixed minimum capital, local authorities review capital during registration. WFOEs face corporate income tax, annual audits, and license renewal costs. A local director may not be required.

8. Joint Venture: Equity or contract-based joint ventures leverage existing networks in China, sharing similar requirements with WFOEs.

9. Holding Company: Holding companies manage assets, make investments, and engage in activities like trading and research. They are subject to specific regulations, including minimum registered capital investment, ownership of at least one subsidiary in China, and certain residency requirements.

10. State-Owned Enterprises: State-Owned Enterprises conduct strategic business activities on behalf of the Chinese government, typically in sectors like aerospace, telecommunications, and energy.

These diverse business structures offer various advantages and considerations for foreign investors in China. Fionza Consultants helps you navigate the complexities and choose the most suitable structure for your business goals.

Accounting and tax obligations

When incorporating your company in China, it’s crucial to consider accounting and tax requirements. Fionza Consultants offers comprehensive services to manage your China accounting and tax obligations, ensuring your financial statements, corporate tax returns, and audits are handled efficiently, without the need for you to travel.

Outsourcing these responsibilities to Fionza Consultants offers several benefits, including reduced overhead costs and the assurance of timely reporting and filings. Our accounting team will keep you informed of all necessary deadlines and expectations, and we’ll prepare required filings in advance to meet stipulated deadlines.

Annual Reporting Requirements: In China, the financial year typically runs from January 1st to December 31st. China-incorporated companies are obligated to file an annual audit report, which must be prepared by a Chinese Certified Public Accounting firm if you are a foreign company. Additionally, companies need to complete an annual Income Tax reconciliation report, which may result in additional tax payments or refunds. This report must be submitted to the State Taxation Administration by May 31st. By June 30th, companies must file a detailed company and financial report with the Administration. Companies must also issue a statement regarding the current state of foreign investors’ equity, as all foreign exchange transactions are controlled by the Chinese government.

Corporate Income Tax: China imposes a corporate income tax rate of 25%, although the actual rate may vary based on your industry and profits. Low-profit companies may be subject to a 20% tax rate. Corporate income tax is typically paid monthly or quarterly within 15 days from the end of the period. These payments are reconciled through an annual Income Tax reconciliation report.

Withholding Tax: Non-resident enterprises are subject to withholding tax on China-derived income, including dividends, equity investment proceeds, interest, royalties, and rent. The withholding tax rate is 10% before remittance.

Value-Added Tax (VAT): Value-Added Tax is applied based on the reported sale amount for goods and services. Whether your company is subject to VAT depends on your total monthly sales. Fionza Consultants can assist you in understanding and complying with VAT regulations.

By entrusting your accounting and tax needs to Fionza Consultants, you can focus on your core business while ensuring compliance with China’s complex financial regulations. Our experienced team will guide you through the process and keep you informed every step of the way.

Is China a good place to start business?

Political

China’s recent anti-corruption campaign, spearheaded by President Xi Jinping, represents a significant and organized effort to combat corruption within the nation. This initiative is the most extensive of its kind in China’s history.

According to Transparency International’s Corruption Perceptions Index, China currently ranks 78th out of 180 countries in terms of corruption levels.

The ongoing protests in Hong Kong advocating for independence from China have strained bilateral relations between the two entities, leading to widespread dissatisfaction.

Economic

Since China’s economic reforms began in 1978, the nation has experienced an impressive average annual Gross Domestic Product (GDP) growth rate of approximately 10%. This rapid economic expansion, coupled with substantial import and export activities, makes China an attractive destination for business opportunities.

China boasts a diverse and sizable domestic economy, with numerous prospects for investors. Additionally, its strategic location in Asia provides access to various Asian markets.

The recent trade tensions between the United States and China, known as the US-China trade war, have had adverse effects on both countries’ competitiveness and economies.

According to Statista, in 2018, China’s manufacturing labor costs were estimated at just US $5.51 per hour, making it an ideal location for establishing companies, particularly those with labor-intensive operations.

Social

The official language of China is Mandarin, with fewer than 1% of Mainland Chinese being fluent in conversational English. This language barrier may pose challenges when dealing with local government and banking transactions, but Fionza Consultants can provide translation services if necessary.

The International Monetary Fund reports that income inequality in China has grown significantly over the years, making it one of the most unequal countries globally.

China’s Social Credit System involves extensive governmental oversight into the daily lives and behaviors of its citizens, which has raised concerns about privacy and individual freedoms.

Technological

According to the Harvard Business Review, the Chinese government has committed to increasing Research and Development expenditures from 1.7% to 2.5% of its Gross Domestic Product by 2020, highlighting its dedication to technological advancement.

China’s prowess in technology has given rise to major tech giants like Alibaba and Tencent, significantly bolstering the nation’s economy.

However, the Great Firewall of China restricts the use of social media platforms such as Facebook and Instagram for business operations, affecting social media marketing and sales efforts.

Registering for intellectual property rights in China can be a costly and time-consuming process, requiring careful consideration and planning.

Legal

In March 2019, China introduced several new laws aimed at benefiting foreign businesses. These laws provide increased intellectual property protection and investment safeguards.

In 2017, Zhou Qiang, a top Chinese judge, criticized the country’s judicial system and highlighted the close relationship between the Communist Party and the judiciary.

Environmental

China is actively investing in green initiatives, as evidenced by the Ministry of Finance’s allocation of 407.3 billion yuan in 2020 for ecology and environmental protection.

However, China continues to grapple with severe air pollution issues, resulting in challenges for its residents who often struggle with breathing difficulties due to choking smog.

Find out more about how to register company in China

Contact us now to learn more about initiating a business venture in China. Our dedicated and seasoned team is here to assist you. Expect a response within 24 hours as we address all your inquiries.

FAQ

What is the best business in China?

China has the third-largest consumer market in the world. Given that is currently the fastest-growing consumer market as well, this makes the domestic consumer goods market relatively attractive for new entrants.

Apart from consumer goods, it also holds the most patents, trademarks and creative goods exports, along with two of the top five science and technology clusters in the world, making it a good place to enter the high-tech manufacturing and development industries.

How much does it cost to start a business in China?

While there are no paid-up capital requirements for the process, Tetra Consultants will recommend setting aside at least US$5,000 as your paid-up capital to fund your overhead expenditures as well as initial deposit for starting a corporate bank account.

As for Tetra Consultants’ engagement fees, this depends on the exact services required from Tetra Consultants. Our fees are inclusive of government fees and all fees will be clearly stated in our engagement letter prior to the start of the engagement. Tetra Consultants believes in transparency with our valued clients and there are no hidden fees.

How to check company registration in China?

You can conduct a search for your company registration number using the ICP Registration Query.

How do I get a business license in China?

Companies can make their application at the State Administration for Industry and Commerce.

Is private ownership of land allowed in China?

No it is not allowed. However, companies can obtain transferable land-use rights.

When is VAT registration compulsory?

It is compulsory when companies exceed US$3,100 (RMB20,000) in taxable supplies.

Can anyone start a business in China?

Yes, anyone, even foreigners can incorporate in China. In July 2020, China repealed most of its protectionist foreign ownership limits in the financial sector, and allowed full foreign ownership in securities, fund management, futures and life insurance companies.

However, the Special Administrative Measures for the Access of Foreign Investment still apply, and some sectors still face restrictions on the nationality of the owners and investors allowed. Industries in the Free Trade Pilot Zones also have similar restrictions on 30 sectors. Certain sectors such as agriculture, rare earth mining or domestic transport require Chinese companies to have a controlling stake.

How do I register my business name in China?

You can check the availability of your preferred company name and reserve it with the China Registrar of Companies.

Register company in China