Registration of a Representative Office (Representative Office) in China

Set up a local representative office of your company in China — quickly, cost-effectively, and without unnecessary formalities. The service includes a complete package: from partner search to accounting and account opening — all turnkey.

What is a Representative Office (RO) in the PRC

A Representative Office is a legal entity form that allows a foreign company to establish a presence in China. An RO cannot conduct commercial activities (such as selling goods or issuing invoices) but is ideal for negotiations, business contacts, marketing, and market research.

Advantages of a Representative Office

• Fast registration — about 2 weeks from the moment documents are submitted.
• No requirement for charter capital.
• A local office increases the confidence of clients and partners.
• Opportunities for participation in exhibitions, advertising campaigns, research, quality control.
• Opening accounts in Chinese yuan (RMB) and foreign currency for receiving funds from the parent company.
• The ability to hire local employees — through FESCO (Foreign Enterprise Service Corporation — a state-owned staffing agency in China that handles registration and hiring of employees for foreign companies) or other agencies.

Restrictions of a Representative Office

• A representative office cannot conduct commercial activities or receive income from sales.
• It is prohibited to sign contracts on behalf of the parent company, import/export goods, or own assets in China.
• Cannot issue invoices to local clients or store goods in warehouses.

If you plan to conduct actual business in China — consider opening a WFOE or JV.

Requirements for Opening a Representative Office

1. The parent company must have been in existence for at least 2 years.
2. Required documents: incorporation documents, financial reports, parent company certificate, office lease agreement.
3. A registered physical address is mandatory — the office must be located in a commercial building.

Move to Agency Services for Opening a Representative Office

• Assistance with office selection and lease processing;
• Document preparation and application submission;
• Obtaining permits for foreign employees and cooperation with FESCO;
• Organizing accounting, reporting, and tax records;
• Opening bank accounts in Chinese yuan (RMB) and foreign currency;
• Full coordination and post-registration support.

FAQ

1. Why open a representative office if it cannot conduct commercial activity?

A Representative Office is an ideal tool for foreign companies entering a new market: to study the market, establish business contacts, conduct marketing, and control the quality of goods or services. You can test the potential of doing business in China at minimal cost before deciding to enter the market more fully.

2. What documents are required to open a representative office in China?

You will need: – A notarized and legalized copy of the parent company’s registration documents; – Bank statement; – Lease agreement for a commercial office; – Appointment documents for the chief representative. We provide templates and assistance at all stages of document preparation.

3. Can we help hire employees in China?

Yes, we assist in registering with HR agencies (such as FESCO). We help prepare documents, coordinate with the staffing agency, and formalize employee hiring.

4. How long does it take to register a Representative Office?

On average, the process takes from 30 to 80 working days depending on the region and document readiness. We control the timelines and provide a transparent action schedule.

5. What reports must a Representative Office file?

Although the Representative Office does not conduct sales, it must maintain accounting records, file reports, pay employee salary taxes and rental fees. We offer full accounting services.

6. Can a Representative Office be converted into a full-fledged company in the future?

Yes, this is a common practice. After market analysis and building a partner network, you can close the RO and register a WFOE or JV. We assist with preparing the transition and formalizing the new status.