Incorporation & Compliance
China Company Registration
Company registration in China has never been easier. FDI China manages the entity setup process online, guiding you step by step with bilingual support. We assist with bank account opening, ensure tax filing compliance, and help you obtain various business licenses and permits.
- Local expertise & efficiency
- 100% Compliance & coverage
- 24/7 Multilingual support
Avg. Registration Time
Entities Established
Compliance Rate
Years Experience
Consulting Team
A leading China-based business setup and corporate services firm managed by an experienced GLocal team. We help international clients establish companies in China and provide compliant tax, accounting, and company secretary services. Our multilingual team supports Chinese, English, Malay, and Japanese.
Cici, Huang (Incorporation Senior Consultant)
Cici is a seasoned international business consultant with over 20 years of experience in foreign company registration, business license amendments, tax registration updates, and business advisory. She holds an MBA from HELP University, Malaysia, and has supported hundreds of clients across manufacturing, finance, technology, consulting, and trade, including foreign-invested enterprises and representative offices.
Deeply knowledgeable in Chinese corporate law and international regulations, Cici excels in liaising with government bodies such as the AMR, tax bureaus, and commerce commissions. Her expertise in cross-border business culture allows her to provide tailored, compliant, and efficient one-stop solutions for complex corporate needs.
Connie Yan (Certified Public Accountant & Taxation Expert)
Connie is a seasoned corporate finance professional with more than 28 years of experience in foreign‑invested enterprises, including over a decade in corporate finance leadership roles. Her expertise spans financial reporting, tax planning, financial analysis, and internal controls. Proficient in PRC GAAP, US GAAP, and IFRS, she translates complex accounting standards into clear, actionable insights that support sound, compliant business decisions.
From day-to-day finance operations to comprehensive management, Connie delivers practical solutions to tax and finance challenges across multiple jurisdictions. With a bachelor’s degree and certifications in CICPA, AIA, and CTA, she combines technical expertise with strategic insight to provide clients with reliable, professional financial guidance and tailored advisory support.
Our Services
FDI China provides China company registration, tax & accounting and compliance services that allow you to quickly and legally meet your business needs in China. Our team of expert consultants are here to guide your business through the Chinese market from early registration stages to business expansions.
LLC Registration
Company Closure
Tax & Accounting
Market Entry
China Company Type
This text briefly introduces visitors to your main services.
Limited Liability Company
The most common foreign-invested structure in China. Shareholders’ liability is limited to capital contribution, offering full control and compliance.
Joint-Stock Limited Company
Ideal for larger ventures seeking public fundraising. Ownership is divided into shares, allowing multiple investors and potential stock exchange listing.
Branch of Foreign Company
A direct extension of the overseas headquarters. It operates under the parent company’s liability and must follow Chinese regulatory supervision.
Special General Partnership
Designed for professional firms such as law or accounting practices, where partners share limited liability except for their own professional fault.
Representative Office
A cost-efficient option for market research or liaison activities in China. It cannot conduct profit-generating operations or sign contracts directly.
Limited Partnership
Combines flexibility and shared profits. General partners assume unlimited liability, while limited partners’ risk is restricted to their investment.
General Partnership
Formed by two or more partners jointly operating a business. All partners share management rights and bear unlimited joint liability.
| Entity Type | Legal Rep.? | Liability (Investors) | For-profit Business? | Capital/Contribution | Public Offering? |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| Limited Liability Company | ✓ | Limited to capital | ✓ | Pay-in within 5 years | ✖ |
| Joint-Stock Limited Company | ✓ | Limited to shares | ✓ | Pay-in; may raise publicly | ✓ |
| General Partnership | ✖ | Unlimited joint | ✓ | By partnership agreement | ✖ |
| Limited Partnership | ✖ | Limited | ✓ | By partnership agreement | ✖ |
| Special General Partnership | ✖ | At-fault partner unlimited; others limited | ✓ | By partnership agreement | ✖ |
| Branch of Foreign Company | ✖ | Foreign HQ bears | ✓ | Funds allocated by HQ | ✖ |
| Representative Office | ✖ | Foreign company liable; not independent | ✖ | None (expenses remitted) | ✖ |
China Entity Type Comparison
Entity Type
Legal Rep.?
Liability (Investors)
For-profit Business?
Capital/Contribution
Public Offering?
All-In-One Market Entry Package
Company Registration
WFOE (or RO) registration securing your business license, registered address and bank accounts.
Tax & Accounting Compliance
China accounting system setup. Monthly, quarterly & yearly reporting. Corporate annual tax return.
Payroll & HR Compliance
Payroll, benefits administration and ensuring full compliance for WFOEs with China’s labor laws.
Registered address in Jing'an district
FDI China exclusive tax refund
Jing’an is a centrally located district in Shanghai. This area is popular among working class citizens and expats and is home to many multinational companies & startups. FDI China has exclusive registered addresses in Jing’an district that qualify for tax rebates that increase with taxable income brackets. For more details on the tax refunds, connect with us directly via contact form.
“A company’s strength lies in its people.”
At FDI China, we are defined by the talent and dedication of our team professionals who are experts in their fields, who adapt to ever evolving policies, and who consistently go above and beyond for our clients.
Need an Office?
We work with WeWork
Success Stories of Clients
Rep Fitness
Gym Equipment
Rep Fitness
Kickee Pants
Children Apparel
Kickee Pants
Pearl Polyurethane
Chemical Trading
Pearl Polyurethane
Tam Hangers
Textile Manufacturing
Tam Hangers
WIT Consulting
Information Technology
WIT Consulting
Young China Group
Online Magazine
Young China Group
T2M
Semiconductors
T2M
Vertere Marketing
Marketing Agency
Vertere Marketing
reTyre
Tire Manufacturer
reTyre
OMC Medical
Medical Devices
OMC Medical
Access Financial
Workforce Management
Access Financial
Xsolla
Game Monetization
Xsolla
... And many many more!
Incorporation FAQs
What are the types of companies that foreigners can register in China?
Foreign investors can register several types of business entities in China depending on their goals and risk preferences.
The main types include:
- Limited Liability Company (LLC): The most common form for full foreign ownership, with liability limited to capital contribution.
- Joint Stock Company (JSC): Suitable for larger ventures, allowing public fundraising.
- General Partnership (GP): Two or more partners share management and bear unlimited joint liability.
- Limited Partnership (LP): Combines general and limited partners, offering flexibility and reduced liability for limited partners.
- Special General Partnership (SGP): Typically for professional firms; partners bear limited liability except for personal fault.
- Branch of a Foreign Company: Operates under the foreign headquarters’ liability.
- Representative Office (RO): For liaison or market research; not permitted to engage in profit-making activities
What are the basic requirements to register a company in China?
Key requirements include:
- A unique company name (approved by the local Administration for Market Regulation).
- Stated registered capital (varies by business type).
- A physical office address in China.
- Legal representatives and shareholders’ information.
- A business scope aligned with Chinese regulations.
How long does it take to register a company in China?
The entire process typically takes 1-3 months, depending on:
- The business structure.
- Completeness of documents.
- Specific location and administrative efficiency.
How much registered capital is needed to open a company in China?
China does not mandate a minimum for many industries, but having sufficient capital demonstrates financial strength.
The registered capital amount varies based on industry and business location.
- For general consulting WFOEs, RMB 100,000 to RMB 500,000 is common.
- For manufacturing, logistics, or trading, it can exceed RMB 1 million.
Can I register a company in China without being physically present?
Yes, in many cases, you can delegate the process to a local firm like FDI China. However, for opening a bank account, personal presence is required.
Do I need a Chinese partner to start a business in China?
No, you don’t need a Chinese partner to register a WFOE. However, if you opt for a Joint Venture (JV), you must collaborate with a Chinese entity.
What is the role of a legal representative in a Chinese company?
The legal representative is the person who has the authority to act on behalf of the company. They:
- Sign key documents.
- Represent the company in legal and financial matters.
- Are responsible for the company’s compliance.
This person can be a foreigner or a Chinese citizen.
What is a business scope, and why is it important for company registration?
The business scope defines the activities your company is legally allowed to perform in China. For example, “import/export trade” or “IT consulting services.”
A well-defined business scope ensures compliance and prevents issues during tax filing or licensing.
Can a foreign company own property in China?
Yes, a foreign company can own property in China if it is registered locally as a WFOE or JV. Representative Offices (ROs), however, cannot directly own property.
Do I need a commercial ICP license to operate a business website in China?
Yes, if you plan to run an e-commerce website or any profit-generating online platform, you must obtain a commercial ICP license. Non-profit websites only require a standard ICP filing.
Can I register a company in China and hire foreign employees?
Yes, foreign companies can hire both local and foreign employees. To hire foreign staff, the company must provide a work permit and assist with the visa process.
What are the post-registration compliance requirements?
Once registered, a company must:
- File taxes monthly & quarterly.
- Maintain proper accounting and auditing.
- Follow labor laws for employee contracts and social insurance.
Can a company in China send funds overseas?
Yes, a company in China can send funds overseas.
The process depends on the nature of the transaction.
Payment for Goods or Services
- Requirements:
- A valid contract or invoice.
- Proof of goods received or services rendered (e.g., customs declaration, shipping documents).
- Proper documentation for foreign exchange approval.
Dividends Repatriation
- Requirements:
- The company must complete annual financial audits and profit distributions.
- Corporate income tax must be settled.
- Submission of supporting documents, including the audited financial report, board resolution, and tax payment certificates.
Royalties and Licensing Fees
- Requirements:
- A licensing or technical service agreement.
- Tax clearance or proof of withholding tax payment.
- SAFE approval, depending on the amount.
Employee Salaries and Benefits
- Requirements:
- Work permits and contracts for foreign employees.
- Tax clearance certificates.
What restrictions exist on foreign ownership and investment for certain industries?
China uses a Negative List for Foreign Investment to outline restricted and prohibited industries.
- Restricted industries: Foreign ownership may be limited to a joint venture with Chinese partners or capped at a certain percentage.
- Prohibited industries: Foreign investment is outright banned.
Examples include specific areas of telecommunications, education, and cultural industries. Always review the latest Negative List as it is periodically updated.