Published by ChinaMNC · Daishan

Registering a Company in China: Documents, Steps and Timeline

A practical guide for founders setting up a company in Daishan, Zhejiang, covering required documents, registration steps, and typical timelines.

Why Daishan, Zhejiang?

Daishan is an island county in Zhoushan, Zhejiang Province, known for its port and marine economy. For founders, it offers a local business environment supported by Zhejiang's broader infrastructure. While Daishan is not a major metropolitan center, setting up a company there follows China's national company registration framework, with local specifics handled by the Daishan County Market Supervision Administration and related authorities.

Key Documents Required

Before starting, prepare the following documents. Requirements can vary slightly depending on business scope and company type, so confirm with local authorities or a qualified professional.

For Foreign Investors (Establishing a Foreign-Invested Enterprise)

• Passport copies of all foreign shareholders and legal representatives (notarized and apostilled or legalized as required).
• Proof of address for foreign shareholders (e.g., utility bill or bank statement).
• Certificate of Incorporation and Articles of Association of the foreign parent company, notarized and legalized/apostilled.
• Board resolution authorizing the investment and appointing a legal representative.
• Bank reference letter (sometimes requested).
• Registered address proof in Daishan (lease agreement and property certificate).
• Company name in Chinese (provide several alternatives for pre-approval).
• Articles of Association for the new China entity.
• Business scope description (must comply with Negative List for foreign investment).

For Domestic Investors (Chinese Citizens or Chinese Companies)

• ID copies of shareholders and legal representative.
• Registered address proof in Daishan.
• Company name alternatives.
• Articles of Association.
• Business scope description.

Note: If the registered address is provided by an incubator or virtual office, ensure it is legally recognized for registration in Daishan.

Step-by-Step Registration Process

Step 1: Company Name Pre-Approval

Submit 3–5 proposed Chinese names to the Daishan County Market Supervision Administration (or via Zhejiang's online enterprise registration system). Names must be unique and follow naming rules. This step typically takes 1–3 working days.

Step 2: Prepare and Submit Registration Documents

Compile the documents listed above. For foreign-invested enterprises, additional review by the local commerce department may be required if the business scope involves restricted sectors. Submit the application online or at the local service center. Ensure all foreign documents are properly notarized, apostilled/legalized, and translated into Chinese.

Step 3: Obtain Business License

Once approved, you will receive the business license (usually within 3–5 working days after submission, assuming documents are in order). The license contains the unified social credit code.

Step 4: Carve Company Seals

Order official seals (company seal, legal representative seal, finance seal, invoice seal, and contract seal) from a licensed seal-making shop. This typically takes 1–2 working days. Seals are required for bank account opening and tax registration.

Step 5: Open a Bank Account

Open a basic corporate bank account at a local bank in Daishan. Requirements vary by bank; typically you need the business license, seals, legal representative ID, and sometimes proof of address. Processing time: 1–2 weeks.

Step 6: Tax Registration and Invoicing Setup

Register with the tax authority (now often integrated with the business license process) and apply for invoice issuance. You may need to visit the local tax office for biometric verification and to determine taxpayer status (small-scale or general taxpayer). Timeline: 1–2 weeks.

Step 7: Social Security and Housing Fund Registration

If hiring employees, register with the social security and housing fund authorities. This can be done after obtaining the business license.

Step 8: Foreign Exchange Registration (for Foreign-Invested Enterprises)

Register with the local branch of the State Administration of Foreign Exchange (SAFE) to open a foreign currency capital account. This is typically done through the bank.

Typical Timeline

Assuming all documents are prepared and compliant, the registration process from name approval to business license can take 2–4 weeks. Including bank account opening and tax setup, plan for 4–8 weeks in total. Delays can occur due to document notarization/legalization, translation, or additional reviews for foreign investment. For domestic companies, the process is generally faster (2–3 weeks total).

Practical Considerations for Daishan

• Local Authority: Daishan County Market Supervision Administration handles company registration. Check their website or visit the local service center for updated forms and requirements.
• Language: All documents must be in Chinese; use a certified translator for foreign documents.
• Registered Address: Ensure the address is zoned for commercial use and can receive official mail. If you don't have a physical office, consider using a local business incubator or virtual office service that is recognized by the authorities.
• Business Scope: Write it clearly and in line with the Negative List. If unsure, consult a local advisor.
• Professional Help: Given the island location and potential language barriers, engaging a local corporate services firm or lawyer can streamline the process.

Disclaimer

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