Published by ChinaMNC · Gongshu

Registering a company in China: documents, steps and timeline

A practical guide for founders setting up a company in Gongshu, Zhejiang, covering required documents, the registration process, and a realistic timeline. Includes key considerations for foreign investors and a disclaimer.

Why Gongshu, Zhejiang?

Gongshu District is part of Hangzhou, a major commercial and technology hub in Zhejiang Province. For founders, Gongshu offers access to local government services, a growing startup ecosystem, and proximity to Hangzhou's transportation networks. While this guide focuses on Gongshu, the general process applies across mainland China, with local variations.

Key Documents You Will Need

Before starting, prepare the following documents. Requirements can vary by company type (e.g., wholly foreign-owned enterprise, joint venture, or domestic company) and by local regulations. Always confirm with the local Administration for Market Regulation (AMR) or a qualified professional.

For All Companies

• Company name (in Chinese) – typically 3–5 alternatives for pre-approval.
• Registered address proof – lease agreement or property ownership certificate for your Gongshu office.
• Articles of Association – signed by all shareholders.
• Legal representative's ID – passport for foreign nationals, ID card for Chinese citizens.
• Shareholder information – IDs/passports, ownership percentages, and capital contribution details.
• Business scope – a clear description of planned activities, using standard industry terms.

Additional Documents for Foreign-Invested Enterprises (FIEs)

• Notarized and apostilled/legalized incorporation documents of the foreign parent company (if applicable).
• Foreign shareholder's passport copy – often notarized.
• Proof of foreign investor's address – utility bill or bank statement.
• Investment commitment letter – sometimes required for certain industries.

Note: China has implemented the Foreign Investment Law, and the negative list determines whether your industry requires special approval. Most sectors are now subject to simple filing rather than approval.

Step-by-Step Registration Process

Step 1: Name Pre-Approval

Submit 3–5 proposed Chinese company names to the local AMR (formerly AIC) for pre-approval. This can be done online via the Zhejiang Government Service Network. Avoid names that are similar to existing trademarks or companies. Timeline: 1–3 working days.

Step 2: Prepare Registered Address

Secure a physical office in Gongshu. The lease contract and property certificate must be provided. Some founders use virtual office services, but confirm with local authorities whether your business scope allows it. Timeline: dependent on lease negotiation.

Step 3: File for Business License

Submit the complete set of documents to the Gongshu AMR. For FIEs, additional filing with the Ministry of Commerce (MOFCOM) system may be required. After review, you receive the business license (营业执照). Timeline: 3–7 working days if documents are in order.

Step 4: Carve Company Seals

Order the official company seals: company seal, legal representative seal, financial seal, invoice seal, and contract seal. These are typically made at designated seal-making shops. Timeline: 1–2 working days.

Step 5: Open Bank Account

Open a basic corporate bank account (基本户) and, if needed, a foreign currency account. Banks require the business license, seals, and legal representative's ID. For FIEs, additional documents may be requested. Timeline: 3–10 working days, depending on bank due diligence.

Step 6: Tax Registration and Invoicing

Register with the tax bureau, sign a tripartite agreement for tax withholding, and apply for invoice issuance (if applicable). You may also need to register with the social insurance and housing fund authorities. Timeline: 1–5 working days.

Step 7: Post-Registration Filings

Depending on your industry, additional licenses or filings may be required (e.g., food, education, logistics). For FIEs, annual reporting to MOFCOM and the AMR is mandatory.

Timeline Overview

The total timeline from name pre-approval to operational readiness is typically 2–6 weeks for a domestic company and 4–8 weeks for an FIE, assuming documents are prepared correctly and no additional approvals are needed. Delays can occur due to document errors, address verification, or bank compliance checks.

Practical Tips for Founders

• Engage a local advisor – A qualified accountant or corporate service provider familiar with Gongshu can help navigate local requirements.
• Verify address compliance – Confirm that your planned office is zoned for commercial use and that the landlord can provide necessary documents.
• Consider the negative list – Check if your business scope falls under restricted or prohibited categories for foreign investment.
• Plan for banking – Bank account opening can be time-consuming; prepare a clear explanation of your business model and source of funds.
• Keep digital copies – Store all documents in both Chinese and English (where applicable) for future filings.

Disclaimer

This article provides general information only and does not constitute legal, tax, or professional advice. Regulations and procedures may change. You should consult with qualified local authorities or a licensed professional before making any decisions. The author and publisher assume no responsibility for any errors or omissions.