Published by ChinaMNC · Ganzhou

Registering a company in China: documents, steps and timeline

A practical guide for founders setting up a company in Ganzhou, Gansu, covering required documents, registration steps, and expected timelines under China's company law.

Introduction

Setting up a company in China involves a structured process governed by the Company Law and administered by the State Administration for Market Regulation (SAMR). For founders targeting Ganzhou, a city in Gansu Province, the process follows national rules with local implementation. This guide outlines the documents, steps, and typical timeline, helping you plan without relying on unverified claims. Note that requirements can change; always confirm with local authorities or a qualified advisor.

Key Considerations Before You Start

Before preparing documents, decide on the company type. Most foreign founders choose a Wholly Foreign-Owned Enterprise (WFOE) or a Sino-Foreign Equity Joint Venture (EJV). The registration authority in Ganzhou is the Ganzhou Municipal Administration for Market Regulation (or its district branches). You will also need a registered address in Ganzhou; this can be a physical office or a serviced address if permitted. Ensure your business scope complies with the Negative List for Foreign Investment; sectors not on the list generally enjoy national treatment.

Required Documents

The exact list may vary by company type and district, but typically includes:

• Company name in Chinese (and optional English) with 3–5 alternatives for pre-approval.
• Articles of Association signed by all shareholders.
• Proof of identity for shareholders, legal representative, supervisors, and directors: passport copies for foreign individuals; notarized and apostilled/legalized incorporation documents for foreign corporate shareholders.
• Registered address proof: lease agreement and property ownership certificate, or a address usage certificate from a qualified provider.
• Capital contribution plan: subscribed capital amount, currency, and timeline (consistent with Articles).
• Legal representative appointment document and acceptance letter.
• Power of Attorney if an agent handles the registration.
• Foreign investment information report (if applicable) through the foreign investment registration system.

Documents in foreign languages must be translated into Chinese and often notarized/legalized. For corporate shareholders, the chain of notarization and legalization (or apostille under the Hague Convention) must be completed before submission.

Step-by-Step Registration Process

Step 1: Name Pre-Approval

Submit proposed names to the Ganzhou AMR online system. Names must not conflict with existing registered names or violate naming rules. Approval is usually quick, but keep alternatives ready.

Step 2: Prepare and Submit Registration Application

Once the name is approved, compile the documents listed above. Submit online via the Gansu Government Service Network or in person at the Ganzhou AMR window. The application includes the company registration form, Articles, shareholder resolutions, and address proof.

Step 3: Obtain Business License

After review, the AMR issues the business license (duplicate copies available). This license contains the unified social credit code, which is needed for all subsequent steps.

Step 4: Company Seal Carving

With the business license, apply for official seals: company seal, legal representative seal, financial seal, invoice seal, and contract seal. Seals must be recorded with the public security bureau. In Ganzhou, seal carving is typically done at authorized shops.

Step 5: Bank Account Opening

Open a basic RMB account and, if needed, a foreign currency account at a bank in Ganzhou. Banks require the business license, seals, legal representative ID, and sometimes proof of address. The legal representative may need to appear in person or via video verification.

Step 6: Tax Registration and Invoicing

Register with the Ganzhou tax authority, determine taxpayer status (small-scale or general), and apply for invoice issuance. This step is often integrated with the business license process but requires separate confirmation.

Step 7: Foreign Exchange and Customs (if applicable)

If you have foreign capital or engage in import/export, complete foreign exchange registration and customs filing. These can be done after the bank account is active.

Step 8: Social Insurance and Housing Fund Registration

Register with the local social insurance and housing fund centers for employee contributions. This is mandatory once you hire staff.

Timeline

The timeline depends on document readiness and local processing. A realistic estimate:

• Name pre-approval: 1–3 working days.
• Business license: 3–7 working days after complete submission.
• Seal carving: 1–2 working days.
• Bank account: 1–2 weeks (varies by bank and verification).
• Tax registration: 1–5 working days.
• Other registrations (forex, customs): 1–2 weeks.

Overall, from document preparation to a fully operational setup, founders should plan for 4–8 weeks. Delays commonly arise from notarization/legalization of foreign documents, address verification, or incomplete applications.

Practical Tips for Ganzhou

• Confirm the registered address requirements with the Ganzhou AMR; some districts require a physical office inspection.
• Use local translation services familiar with registration documents to avoid rejection.
• Engage a local accountant early to handle tax registration and monthly reporting.
• Keep digital and physical copies of all submitted documents.

Disclaimer

This article provides general information only and does not constitute legal, tax, or investment advice. Regulations and procedures may change, and local practices in Ganzhou may vary. Founders should consult qualified professionals and verify requirements with the Ganzhou Municipal Administration for Market Regulation and other relevant authorities before proceeding.