As Hainan continues advancing toward full implementation of the Free Trade Port (FTP) customs closure operation, the island has seen a sustained rise in new business registrations. At the same time, regulatory oversight, particularly regarding registered addresses, has tightened significantly. With the province‑wide rollout of new address management rules in November 2025, applicants are now required to meet stricter documentation and verification standards.
For entrepreneurs, especially those without a fixed office location, understanding these updated requirements is essential. In China, every company must have a legally verifiable registered address for regulatory, tax, and correspondence purposes, even if the business operates primarily online. Importantly, the registered address is a legal filing address, not necessarily the location where daily operations occur.
This guide provides a clear overview of the 2026 company registration process in Hainan, including address rules, available options, required documents, and typical costs.
1. Key Changes in Hainan’s Address Regulations
Province‑wide “Standard Address Database” Verification
Hainan now uses a unified “Standard Address Database” to verify all registered business addresses.
The address submitted must match real estate registration records and the “One Standard, Three Realities” dataset exactly, even minor discrepancies can result in rejection.
Situations Not Eligible for the Notification‑Commitment System*
Certain categories of applicants must submit full supporting documents (property ownership certificate, lease contract, housing safety appraisal, etc.). These include cases where:
- the address is disputed
- the address has previously been listed as abnormal
- the property type requires additional verification
*The Notification‑Commitment System (告知承诺制) is a regulatory mechanism used across China, including in Hainan, to simplify administrative approvals. Authorities notify applicants of requirements, and applicants commit in writing that they meet them, with documents submitted later. Some address types, however, are not eligible.
Stricter Requirements for Residential and Self‑Built Properties
Residential addresses in China involve collective ownership rules, meaning consent from related property owners is required before the space can be used for business registration.
Residential properties: Consent from more than two‑thirds of related property owners is required.
Self‑built properties: A qualified housing safety appraisal must be provided.
Applicants using their own available address must submit the appropriate ownership or lease documentation. Residential properties also require unanimous consent from all interested property owners.
2. What If You Don’t Have a Registered Address?
Many new businesses, particularly startups, freelancers, and small service providers, do not initially have a physical office. Hainan allows two main alternatives.
A. Renting a Physical Office Address
This is the most straightforward option and is required for industries that involve on‑site operations, such as:
- food and beverage
- logistics
- education and training
These industries require on‑site inspections or safety compliance, which cannot be fulfilled through a hosted address.
B. Using a Hosted or “Clustered” Address
Hainan permits the use of legally filed hosted addresses, typically located in:
- industrial parks
- business incubators
- co‑working or clustered office spaces
Hosted addresses are real, government‑filed office locations that allow multiple companies to register at the same site. They can receive official correspondence and are suitable for light‑asset industries such as consulting, IT, and e‑commerce.
However, hosted addresses must be officially filed with the Administration for Market Regulation (AMR). Unregistered or informal addresses may lead to the company being flagged as abnormal.
Important Note on Tax Incentives
Businesses seeking to benefit from Hainan’s “Dual 15%” preferential tax policies must register with a physical operating address. Hosted addresses do not qualify.
3. Step‑by‑Step Process for Registering a Company in Hainan
1. Name Approval
Applicants submit the proposed company name, type, registered capital, shareholders, and capital contribution ratios through the online registration system.
2. Determine Registered Capital
Hainan follows a subscription‑based system.
In principle, registered capital must be fully paid within five years.
The amount should reflect the scale and needs of the business.
3. Submit Registration Materials
All registration procedures can be completed online. Required materials typically include:
- proof of registered address
- shareholding structure
- ID cards of shareholders and legal representative
- business scope
- establishment registration form
4. Obtain the Business License
Once approved, applicants can collect the original and duplicate business license in person with valid identification.
5. Company Seal Engraving
Some cities and counties in Hainan offer free first‑time seal engraving, while others charge a fee.
Policies vary by location.
6. Open a Corporate Bank Account
A corporate bank account is required for daily business operations.
If the legal representative cannot be present, an authorized representative may complete the process.
7. Tax Onboarding
Businesses must complete tax onboarding/reporting within 30 days of registration.
4. Documents Required for Company Registration
1. Company Name
Prepare 3–5 options.
For limited liability companies, the standard naming format is:
Hainan + Trade Name + Industry + Co., Ltd.
Companies using “Hainan” in the name must have ≥ 1 million RMB in registered capital.
Those with less must use a city or county name instead (e.g., Haikou, Sanya).
2. Registered Capital
To be fully paid within five years.
3. Personnel Information
real‑name verified phone numbers
4. Registered Address
Lease contract or property ownership certificate.
5. Articles of Association
The system provides a standard template if needed.
6. Business Scope
Should reflect the company’s actual activities; applicants may refer to similar businesses.
5. Typical Costs Involved
Costs vary depending on location and service choices, and many are market‑based rather than fixed government fees. Common expenses include:
- Company name approval: Free
- Business license registration: Typically around 200 RMB if handled independently
- Seal engraving: Free in some cities; several hundred RMB in others
- Bank account opening (via agent): Several hundred to over 1,000 RMB
- Tax onboarding: Often included when using bookkeeping services
- Hosted address: From 1,300 RMB per year
Hainan’s updated address regulations reflect the province’s broader push toward standardized governance and higher compliance standards as the Free Trade Port develops. While the new rules introduce additional steps, especially for those without a physical office, entrepreneurs still have flexible options, including legally filed hosted addresses for eligible industries.
Policies may vary slightly between cities and counties in Hainan, so applicants should confirm local requirements before submitting materials. Understanding the requirements in advance can help new businesses navigate the process smoothly and avoid delays. As Hainan’s business environment continues to evolve, staying informed about regulatory updates will be essential for anyone planning to establish a company on the island.
For enquiries, contact us at business@tropicalhainan.com
Related article: Hainan FTP Business Forum – Company Registration Form
