WFOE Registration
Opening a company in China is the first chapter for entering the China market or doing business in domestic China with connections from the rest of the world. We offer professional support and guidance in considering the right choice of company registration, whether a Wholly Foreign Owned Enterprise (WFOE), Representative Office, or a Joint Venture.
A Chinese Company 100% Owned by Foreign Investors.
A WFOE / WOFE (Wholly Foreign Owned Enterprise) is a Chinese registered company that is completely owned by foreign investors, whether an individual or a corporate entity.
Supported by a tailored time plan and a series of organized steps from Wilto, the company registration process can be completed in the simplest way. We have over 10 years of experience setting up businesses in China and are passionate about helping foreign entrepreneurs streamline the process of entering China.
Key characteristics of a WFOE
- 100% foreign owned and no local Chinese partner required
- Direct engagement in business mode or activities
- Capable of hiring local staff directly and entitled to the local basic rate remuneration package
- Limited liability entity
- Capable of trading as a normal company, with permission to issue local RMB invoices ("Fapiao")
- Privacy and intellectual property protection
- Simpler establishment than a Joint Venture
Three Common WFOE Structures
Choosing the right WFOE structure depends on the nature of your business activity in China.
Consulting
Wholly Foreign Owned Enterprise
- Under the service or consulting category
- Less complicated application process
- Capable of hiring local staff
- Able to rent, purchase, or build its own property locally
- Profit generation from consulting services
Manufacturing
Wholly Foreign Owned Enterprise
- Involved in manufacturing of goods
- Applicant must rent a plant and have a leasing contract available prior to the application
- Capable of claiming back VAT as a general taxpayer
- Has the right to distribute its own products in wholesale or retail channels
Trading
Foreign-Invested Commercial Enterprise (FICE, also known as WFOE)
- No requirement to have a manufacturing plant or machinery acquisitions
- Zero capital investment requirements
- Capable of claiming back VAT as a general taxpayer
- Business coverage to do wholesale, trading, retail, or franchise in China
Common Types of WFOE Registration in China
There is a wide range of categories to set up a WFOE in China that commonly apply in the field, as mentioned below. WFOEs have become a very popular way for foreign investors to expand or penetrate into China's market.
Trading Company
Inland domestic trading, import & export trading.
Hi-Tech Company
Information technology, bio-tech technology.
Financial Investment
Investment management, investment consultancy.
Engineering
Civil engineering, landscape engineering.
Social Media
Cultural media, entertainment.
Industrial Manufacturing
Product manufacturing, process manufacturing.
Business Services
Management consulting, marketing planning.
Others
Education training, financial lease.
WFOE Registration Procedure
Depending on the right category of the application, our professional team will host and guide appropriate document preparation to ensure a smooth and timely application process.
Documentation
Profound preparation and filing of relevant documents; review of business scope and plans for registered capital; checklist review and document cross-check.
Online Registration
Online registration and submission of documents.
Business License
Document submission at the Industrial and Commerce Bureau; processing and release of the Business License.
⚡ Get your business license in less than 2 weeks
*Processing times are average estimates — actual duration depends on the complexity of each case.
How to Register a WFOE in China?
Contact us to clear your doubts. Wilto is your best choice to serve you.
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