Typical timeline for a WFOE
| Step | Typical time |
|---|---|
| Structure, name check, documents drafted | 1 week |
| Notarisation and apostille at home | 1–3 weeks |
| Business licence issued | 1–2 weeks after filing |
| Company chops carved | A few days |
| Bank accounts opened | 4–8 weeks |
| Tax registration and first invoice | 1–2 weeks |
What slows it down
- Business scopes that need extra permits (food, medical devices, education, telecom)
- Documents from countries outside the Apostille Convention
- Banks that require an in-person visit
What speeds it up
Deciding the business scope and registered capital early, having the legal representative ready for bank verification, and choosing a district used to foreign investment.
Related: WFOE registration · Register without visiting
Reviewed by Admin, Choi & Partners · 3 October 2026. This page is general information, not legal advice.