Published by ChinaMNC · Wushen

Registering a company in China: documents, steps and timeline

A practical guide for founders setting up a company in Wushen, Inner Mongolia, covering required documents, registration steps, and typical timelines under China's company law.

Why Wushen, Inner Mongolia?

Wushen (also known as Uxin) is a banner in Ordos, Inner Mongolia. It offers a lower cost base than major Chinese cities and is part of a region with growing government support for certain industries. However, foreign founders should note that local procedures may vary, and it is advisable to work with a local advisor familiar with Inner Mongolia's administrative practices.

Key Documents Required

Before starting, gather the following documents. Requirements may change, so confirm with the local Administration for Market Regulation (AMR) and, if applicable, the Commerce Bureau.

• Passport copies of all foreign shareholders and legal representatives, notarized and apostilled (or legalized by a Chinese embassy/consulate if the country is not a Hague Apostille member).
• Proof of address for the company, such as a lease agreement or property ownership certificate. In Wushen, ensure the address is zoned for commercial use.
• Articles of Association (AoA) drafted according to the PRC Company Law. For a foreign-invested enterprise (FIE), the AoA must include details on governance, capital contributions, and profit distribution.
• Name pre-approval result from the local AMR. The company name must follow Chinese naming rules and include “Wushen” or “Ordos” if using a local jurisdiction.
• Investment project information if the business falls under the negative list for foreign investment. Check the latest version of the Negative List.
• Legal representative appointment and board resolution (if applicable) for foreign shareholders.
• Capital verification is no longer required for most companies, but a bank account for capital contribution must be opened.

Step-by-Step Registration Process

Step 1: Name Pre-approval

Submit a proposed company name to the Wushen AMR for pre-approval. This can often be done online via the Inner Mongolia Government Service Network. Choose a name that is unique and complies with regulations. This step usually takes 1–3 working days.

Step 2: Prepare and Submit Registration Documents

Once the name is approved, prepare the full registration package. For a foreign-invested enterprise, you may need to file with the local Commerce Bureau (MOFCOM) if the business is not covered by the negative list. However, for most sectors, the filing is integrated into the AMR process. Submit the documents to the Wushen AMR. They will review for completeness and compliance. This step may take 3–7 working days if documents are in order.

Step 3: Obtain Business License

After approval, you will receive the business license (营业执照). This is the key document that allows the company to operate. The license includes the company name, registration number, legal representative, capital, and business scope.

Step 4: Carve Seals and Open Bank Account

With the business license, carve the company seals (official seal, financial seal, legal representative seal, invoice seal). Then open a bank account for capital contribution and a basic deposit account. Banks in Wushen may have different requirements for foreign-invested enterprises, so check in advance. This step can take 5–10 working days.

Step 5: Tax Registration and Invoicing

Register with the local tax authority and obtain the unified social credit code (already on the business license). Then apply for invoice issuance and tax control equipment. This is usually done online or at the tax service hall. Allow 3–5 working days.

Step 6: Post-Registration Filings

Depending on the business scope, you may need additional permits (e.g., food, education). Also, foreign-invested enterprises must file an annual report with MOFCOM. Ensure all post-registration steps are completed.

Timeline Overview

The entire process can take 2–4 months for a foreign-invested company, depending on document preparation, notarization/apostille time, and local processing. In Wushen, the administrative efficiency may be slower than in Tier 1 cities, so plan accordingly.

• Name pre-approval: 1–3 working days
• Document preparation and notarization/apostille: 2–6 weeks (varies by country)
• Registration submission and approval: 3–7 working days
• Seals and bank account: 5–10 working days
• Tax registration: 3–5 working days

Practical Tips for Founders

• Local advisor: Engage a local law firm or corporate service provider in Ordos or Wushen to navigate local requirements.
• Language: All documents must be in Chinese; translations may need to be certified.
• Capital contributions: Follow the subscribed capital timeline in the AoA. The 2024 Company Law requires shareholders to contribute within 5 years.
• Negative list: Check if your business is restricted for foreign investment. If so, a different approval process applies.
• Address: Ensure the registered address is valid and can receive official mail.

Disclaimer

This article provides general information only and does not constitute legal, tax, or investment advice. Regulations and procedures change frequently. You should consult qualified professionals and local authorities in Wushen, Inner Mongolia, for the most current requirements before proceeding.