How a Foreigner Can Set Up a Company in Shanghai: 7 Steps

Choose Structure: WFOE (Wholly Foreign-Owned Enterprise – most common), Joint Venture (max 50% foreign), or Representative Office (non-commercial liaison).
Register with AIC (Market Supervision Bureau): Submit name approval, articles of association, business license application, fees.
Open Bank Account: Provide registration cert, articles, license, passport, visa.
Obtain Specific Licenses: E.g., food license for restaurant, industry-specific permits.
Hire Employees: Register with social security bureau; pay contributions.
Pay Taxes: Corporate income tax 25% for WFOEs; VAT, etc.
Comply with Chinese Law: Tax, labor, environment, IP, data, customs regulations.

Complex process; engage local legal/agency support for success.

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