Published by ChinaMNC · Lezhi

Registering a Company in China: Documents, Steps and Timeline

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

Why Lezhi, Sichuan?

Lezhi is a county in Sichuan Province, located in the Chengdu-Chongqing economic circle. While not a first-tier city, it offers lower operating costs and access to local government services. This guide outlines the process for foreign founders to register a company in Lezhi, focusing on documents, steps, and timelines. Note that requirements can vary by industry and local policies, so always verify with local authorities.

Key Documents Required

Before starting, prepare the following documents. Most must be notarized and translated into Chinese.

For Foreign Investors

• Passport copies of all foreign shareholders and legal representatives, notarized by a Chinese embassy or consulate.
• Proof of address for foreign shareholders (e.g., utility bill or bank statement).
• Certificate of Incorporation for corporate shareholders, notarized and translated.
• Board resolution authorizing the investment, if corporate shareholder.
• Bank reference letter for each foreign shareholder.

For All Companies

• Company name (3-5 alternatives for pre-approval).
• Registered address proof (lease agreement or property certificate in Lezhi).
• Articles of Association (can be based on a standard template).
• Business scope description (must comply with Negative List for foreign investment).
• Legal representative appointment letter and ID copy.
• Shareholder details including capital contribution and percentages.

Step-by-Step Registration Process

Step 1: Name Pre-approval

Submit 3-5 proposed company names to the Lezhi Administration for Market Regulation (AMR) for pre-approval. This can be done online via the Sichuan Government Service Network. Approval typically takes 1-3 business days.

Step 2: Prepare Registration Documents

Based on the approved name, draft the Articles of Association and gather all required documents. For foreign investors, ensure notarization and translation are completed. This step can take 1-2 weeks depending on document readiness.

Step 3: Submit for Business License

Submit the complete application package to the Lezhi AMR. If all documents are in order, the business license is usually issued within 3-5 business days. A unified social credit code is assigned.

Step 4: Carve Seals

After obtaining the business license, carve the company seals (official seal, financial seal, legal representative seal, invoice seal, and contract seal). This takes 1-2 business days at a designated seal-making shop.

Step 5: Open Bank Account

Open a basic corporate bank account. Banks require the business license, seals, and legal representative's ID. For foreign-invested enterprises, additional documents like the Foreign Investment Information Report may be requested. Account opening can take 3-10 business days.

Step 6: Tax Registration

Register with the tax authority within 30 days of obtaining the business license. This involves submitting the business license, seals, and legal representative ID. Tax registration is now often integrated with the business license application, but you may still need to visit the tax bureau for initial setup.

Step 7: Foreign Exchange Registration

If you have foreign capital, register with the State Administration of Foreign Exchange (SAFE) to open a foreign currency capital account. This step is necessary to receive foreign investment.

Step 8: Other Registrations

Depending on your business scope, you may need additional permits (e.g., food, health, import/export). Check with local authorities.

Timeline Overview

The entire process typically takes 4-8 weeks, assuming documents are prepared correctly. Here's a breakdown:

• Name pre-approval: 1-3 business days
• Document preparation: 1-2 weeks (including notarization)
• Business license: 3-5 business days
• Seals: 1-2 business days
• Bank account: 3-10 business days
• Tax registration: 1-3 business days
• SAFE registration: 3-5 business days (if applicable)

Delays can occur due to document errors, holidays, or policy changes. It's advisable to hire a local consultant to navigate the process.

Important Considerations

• Registered Capital: There is no minimum for most industries, but consider a reasonable amount for operations and credibility.
• Business Scope: Must be within the Negative List for foreign investment. Lezhi may have specific local restrictions.
• Annual Compliance: After registration, you must file annual reports and tax returns.
• Language: All documents must be in Chinese; translations must be certified.

Estimated Costs

Costs vary but include notarization fees, translation, seal carving, bank fees, and consultant fees. Government fees for registration are minimal or waived. A local consultant can provide a detailed quote.

Conclusion

Registering a company in Lezhi, Sichuan, follows the standard China process with some local variations. While the steps are straightforward, foreign founders should pay close attention to document notarization and translation. Engaging a local professional can save time and reduce errors. This guide is for informational purposes only and does not constitute legal advice.

Disclaimer: The information provided in this article is for general informational purposes only and may not reflect the most current regulations or practices. Requirements, procedures, and timelines are subject to change and may vary based on individual circumstances, industry, and local policies. Readers should consult with qualified legal and business advisors and verify all information with the relevant Chinese authorities before taking any action. The author and publisher assume no responsibility for any errors or omissions or for any outcomes resulting from the use of this information.