How to Set Up a WFOE in China: The 6 Key Steps to Start a Foreign-Owned Company
Setting up a company in China can be a challenging yet rewarding process. For foreign investors, the Wholly Foreign-Owned Enterprise (WFOE) remains one of the most popular and flexible business structures. It allows 100% foreign ownership and full operational control — without the need for a Chinese partner.
In this article, we’ll guide you through the step-by-step process of establishing a WFOE in China, covering legal requirements, documentation, and key government procedures.
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What Is a WFOE in China?
A Wholly Foreign-Owned Enterprise (WFOE) is a limited liability company set up in China that is entirely owned by foreign investors. Depending on your business model, you can establish one of the following types of WFOE:
- Consulting WFOE (for service businesses)
- Trading WFOE (for import/export and wholesale)
- Manufacturing WFOE (for production and industrial operations)
On average, a Consulting WFOE can be established in as little as 2 months, while Manufacturing WFOEs require more time due to additional approvals and inspections.
Step-by-Step Guide to Setting Up a WFOE in China
Step 1: Choose and Register Your Chinese Company Name
Your first task is to register a compliant Chinese business name with the local Administration for Market Regulation (AMR). The name must follow strict naming conventions. Additionally, you will need a signed lease agreement for a physical office or business location in China.
Step 2: Prepare Required Documents in Chinese
All legal documents for WFOE registration must be prepared in Chinese, including:
- Articles of Association
- Feasibility Study Report (FSR)
- Lease Contract
- Bank Reference Letter
These documents define your company’s structure and operations. Mistakes at this stage can lead to delays or compliance issues down the road.
Step 3: Apply for the Business License Online
You can now apply for your WFOE business license online through the local Market Supervision Administration (MSA). Prior approval from the Ministry of Commerce (MOFCOM) is no longer required — unless your business falls under restricted or prohibited industries (e.g., chemicals or sensitive technologies).
After Obtaining the Business License: Post-Registration Steps
Step 4: Tax Registration and Company Chops
Once the business license is issued, you must register for taxes with the local tax bureau within 30 days. Since 2018, national and local tax authorities have been unified, and the process can now be completed online via the Electronic Taxation Bureau.
This step also includes the creation of official company chops (stamps), which are legally binding in China. Common chops include:
- Company seal
- Financial seal
- Legal representative seal
- Invoice (fapiao) seal
Tip: To prevent internal fraud or abuse, distribute control over the chops among multiple team members.
Step 5: Register with Other Government Authorities
Most registrations have been streamlined or eliminated. However, foreign-invested enterprises (FIEs) still need to:
- Register with the State Administration of Foreign Exchange (SAFE)
- Register with Chinese Customs (if engaging in import/export)
Step 6: Open Bank Accounts
You must open two separate business bank accounts:
- A RMB account for domestic transactions
- A foreign currency capital account to receive and verify your initial capital contribution
After these steps are completed, your WFOE is officially registered and ready to operate in China.
Final Thoughts: WFOE China Setup – What to Watch Out For
Establishing a WFOE in China involves numerous steps, documents, and potential pitfalls. Working with a reliable local advisor or legal firm can help you avoid the top 10 most common mistakes when setting up a WFOE — including tax errors, improper chops, or insufficient document translations.
