Foreigners registering a company in China

Scenario 1

If the shareholder is a foreign individual, they must personally bring their passport and translated documents (some cities may require notarized documents) for an on-site interview. If the individual cannot be present, a notarized certificate of personal identification can be provided, which must be notarized by the local notary public or law firm and then translated and authenticated by the Chinese Consulate in the local area.

Scenario 2

If the shareholder is a foreign company, the company’s entity must be notarized by the local notary public or law firm and then translated and authenticated by the Chinese Consulate in the local area. The notarization should include the company name, registration number, registered address, authorized signatory (director, legal representative), and signature style.

Here is a general outline:

• Approve Corporate Name
• Determine Company Registration Address, Business Scope, and Registered Capital
• Submit Documents (including but not limited to):
  • Application for Company Establishment Registration;
  • Identification documents (Hong Kong/Macau Pass, Taiwan Compatriot Permit, Passport, or their notarized certificates);
  • Articles of Association;
  • Appointment documents for the legal representative;
  • Appointment letters for executive directors/chairpersons and supervisors;
  • Proof of the business premises;
• Receive Business License
• Carve Company Seal
• Open a Corporate Bank Account
• Do the Bookkeeping and Make a tax declaration

Note:

1. The above steps may vary based on time and location, so it is advisable to consult with the local Administration for Industry and Commerce before initiating the registration process to ensure all specific requirements and procedures.
2. It is recommended that assistance from professional service agencies is sought to ensure the smooth progress of the registration process.
3. 7 November 2023, the Convention of 5 October 1961 Abolishing the Requirement of Legalisation for Foreign Public Documents (1961 Apostille Convention) entered into force for the People’s Republic of China. It may affect the registration process.

Reference: http://www.mofcom.gov.cn/article/swfg/fgtz/fgtzgz/201304/20130400104422.shtml