Social Organization Registration in China

China has three main types of social organizations for non-profit activities. Here's how registration works and what's required for each type.

Types of Social Organizations

Social Groups (社会团体)

• Membership-based organizations
• Industry associations, professional groups
• Minimum 50 individual or 30 organizational members

Foundations (基金会)

• Asset-based charitable organizations
• Public or private fundraising
• Minimum registered capital required

Social Service Organizations (社会服务机构)

• Formerly "private non-enterprise units"
• Service delivery focus
• Schools, hospitals, research institutes

Registration Requirements

Common Requirements

• Clear organizational purpose
• Registered office address
• Qualified personnel
• Organizational charter
• Initial funding

Foundation Specifics

• National public foundation: ¥8 million
• Local public foundation: ¥4 million
• Private foundation: ¥2 million

Registration Process

1. Find government sponsor (if required)
2. Prepare application documents
3. Submit to Civil Affairs Bureau
4. Review and approval
5. Receive registration certificate

Ongoing Compliance

• Annual inspection/report
• Financial audits
• Activity within registered scope
• Board governance requirements
• Information disclosure

Tax Benefits

• Income tax exemption (qualified organizations)
• Donation tax deductions for donors
• Must apply for tax-exempt status

Restrictions

• No profit distribution
• Activities within approved scope
• No political activities
• Foreign funding restrictions

Challenges

• Finding government sponsor
• Meeting capital requirements
• Ongoing compliance burden
• Activity scope limitations