Chinese Laws Database
Access comprehensive Chinese legal documents, regulations, and laws. Stay updated with the latest legislative changes affecting foreigners and international businesses in China.
Chinese Legal Categories
Comprehensive collection of Chinese laws organized by major legal areas
Corporate and Commercial Laws
Corporate and commercial laws form the backbone of business operations in China, regulating company formation, foreign investment, contracts, and banking activities. These laws are essential for foreign businesses establishing operations in China, covering corporate governance, investment procedures, and commercial transactions within the Chinese legal framework.
Company Law of the People's Republic of China
The Company Law regulates corporate establishment, governance, and operations in China. It covers limited liability companies, joint-stock companies, and corporate responsibilities. Essential for foreign investors establishing Chinese subsidiaries, this law defines registration procedures, capital requirements, board structures, and shareholder rights. Recent amendments streamline business formation processes and enhance corporate transparency requirements for international businesses operating in China.
Foreign Investment Law of the People's Republic of China
The Foreign Investment Law provides the legal framework for foreign direct investment in China. It establishes investment promotion, protection, and management systems while defining prohibited and restricted sectors. This unified law replaced previous foreign investment regulations, offering equal treatment principles, intellectual property protection, and streamlined approval processes. Critical for multinational corporations planning Chinese market entry and expansion strategies.
Contract Law of the People's Republic of China
Contract Law governs the formation, performance, and enforcement of commercial agreements in China. It covers sales, leasing, construction, and service contracts with specific provisions for international transactions. Foreign businesses must understand contract validity requirements, dispute resolution mechanisms, and force majeure provisions. This law ensures legal certainty for cross-border commercial relationships and protects parties' contractual rights under Chinese jurisdiction.
Foreign Trade Law
Foreign Trade Law regulates import and export activities, trade promotion, and international commerce in China. It establishes licensing requirements, trade restrictions, and customs procedures for foreign traders. The law covers trade remedy measures, anti-dumping regulations, and export control systems. Essential for international businesses engaged in cross-border trade, it provides the legal foundation for China's participation in global supply chains and trade agreements.
Commercial Banking Law
Commercial Banking Law regulates banking operations, financial services, and monetary transactions in China. It governs bank licensing, deposit protection, lending practices, and foreign exchange services. The law establishes regulatory frameworks for foreign banks operating in China and defines compliance requirements for international financial institutions. Critical for businesses requiring banking services, financing, and foreign exchange transactions within the Chinese financial system.
Labor and Employment Laws
Labor and employment laws protect workers' rights and regulate employment relationships in China. These laws are crucial for foreign employees and employers, covering employment contracts, work permits for foreigners, social insurance, and dispute resolution mechanisms within the Chinese labor market system.
Labor Contract Law of the People's Republic of China
Labor Contract Law regulates employment relationships, working conditions, and employee rights in China. It covers contract formation, termination procedures, working hours, and wage protection. Foreign employees must understand probationary periods, severance requirements, and non-compete clauses. This law ensures fair employment practices, protects workers from discrimination, and establishes legal frameworks for resolving employment disputes between foreign workers and Chinese employers.
Regulations on Employment Management of Foreigners in China
These regulations govern work permit applications, employment authorization, and legal employment of foreigners in China. They define eligibility criteria, application procedures, and compliance requirements for foreign workers and their employers. The regulations cover work permit categories, renewal processes, and penalty provisions for violations. Essential for international professionals seeking employment in China and companies hiring foreign talent.
Social Insurance Law
Social Insurance Law establishes mandatory social security systems including pension, medical, unemployment, work injury, and maternity insurance. It defines contribution obligations for employers and employees, benefit eligibility, and coverage scope. Foreign workers in China may be subject to social insurance requirements depending on their employment status. This law ensures social protection and healthcare access for both domestic and international employees working in China.
Labor Dispute Mediation and Arbitration Law
This law provides mechanisms for resolving employment disputes through mediation and arbitration. It establishes labor dispute arbitration committees, procedural rules, and enforcement mechanisms. Foreign employees can access these dispute resolution services for conflicts with employers regarding wages, contracts, or working conditions. The law offers cost-effective alternatives to litigation and ensures fair resolution of employment-related conflicts in China.
Intellectual Property Laws
Intellectual property laws protect creative works, inventions, and business innovations in China. These laws are particularly important for foreign companies seeking to protect their intellectual assets, covering patents, trademarks, copyrights, and anti-unfair competition measures within the Chinese legal framework.
Patent Law of the People's Republic of China
Patent Law protects inventions, utility models, and designs in China through exclusive rights granted to patent holders. It covers patentability requirements, application procedures, and enforcement mechanisms. Foreign companies must file patents in China to secure protection for their innovations. The law provides strong IP protection with recent amendments enhancing patent quality, expediting examination processes, and increasing damages for infringement, making China an attractive destination for technological innovation.
Trademark Law of the People's Republic of China
Trademark Law regulates brand protection, registration procedures, and trademark rights in China. It covers trademark applications, opposition proceedings, and infringement remedies. Foreign businesses should register trademarks in China to protect their brands and prevent counterfeiting. The law operates on a first-to-file basis, emphasizing early registration importance. Recent updates strengthen enforcement mechanisms and increase penalties for trademark violations, enhancing brand protection for international companies.
Copyright Law of the People's Republic of China
Copyright Law protects literary, artistic, and scientific works including software, databases, and digital content. It grants exclusive rights to authors and creators while establishing fair use exceptions. Foreign creators enjoy automatic copyright protection in China under international treaties. The law covers licensing, collective management, and digital rights, addressing modern challenges like online piracy and streaming content protection for international content creators and publishers.
Anti-Unfair Competition Law
Anti-Unfair Competition Law prohibits deceptive business practices, commercial bribery, and trade secret misappropriation. It protects business interests, maintains market order, and promotes fair competition. Foreign companies benefit from protection against counterfeiting, false advertising, and unfair business practices. The law includes trade secret protection provisions, covering confidential business information and establishing legal remedies for misappropriation, essential for multinational corporations operating in competitive Chinese markets.
Immigration and Entry-Exit Laws
Immigration and entry-exit laws regulate the movement of people in and out of China, including visa requirements, residence permits, and immigration procedures. These laws are essential for foreigners planning to visit, work, or establish residence in China, covering entry-exit management and permanent residence applications.
Entry and Exit Administration Law of the People's Republic of China
Entry and Exit Administration Law regulates border control, visa issuance, and immigration procedures for foreigners entering China. It establishes legal frameworks for visa applications, residence permits, and deportation procedures. The law covers tourist, business, student, and work visas with specific requirements for each category. Essential for foreign nationals planning to visit or reside in China, it defines rights, obligations, and administrative procedures for legal entry and stay.
Administrative Measures for Examination and Approval of Foreigners' Permanent Residence in China
These measures establish pathways for foreigners to obtain permanent residence status in China. They define eligibility criteria including investment thresholds, employment requirements, and family reunification conditions. The regulations streamline application procedures and specify required documentation. Important for foreign investors, skilled professionals, and family members of Chinese citizens seeking long-term residence rights and benefits equivalent to Chinese nationals in specific areas.
Regulations on Administration of Entry and Exit of Foreigners
These regulations detail administrative procedures for foreign nationals entering and exiting China. They cover visa extensions, residence permit renewals, and registration requirements with local authorities. The regulations specify penalties for violations and define administrative responsibilities of immigration officers. Critical for foreigners maintaining legal status in China, these rules ensure compliance with immigration laws and proper documentation throughout their stay.
Law on Administration of Exit and Entry of Chinese Citizens
This law governs the exit and entry procedures for Chinese citizens traveling abroad. It establishes passport issuance requirements, travel restrictions, and return procedures. While primarily affecting Chinese nationals, foreign businesses should understand these regulations when employing Chinese staff for international assignments or managing cross-border operations. The law ensures proper documentation and legal frameworks for Chinese citizens' international travel.
Passport Law
Passport Law regulates the issuance, management, and use of Chinese passports and travel documents. It defines application procedures, validity periods, and renewal requirements for Chinese citizens. Foreign companies employing Chinese nationals for international business should understand passport regulations affecting employee travel. The law establishes legal frameworks for passport security, authentication, and international recognition of Chinese travel documents.
Dispute Resolution and Judicial Laws
Dispute resolution and judicial laws establish the framework for legal proceedings and conflict resolution in China. These laws are important for foreigners involved in legal disputes, covering civil litigation, arbitration procedures, and laws governing foreign-related civil relationships and legal proceedings.
Civil Procedure Law of the People's Republic of China
Civil Procedure Law establishes procedures for civil litigation, court jurisdictions, and legal proceedings in Chinese courts. It covers filing procedures, evidence rules, trial processes, and enforcement mechanisms. Foreign parties involved in civil disputes must understand these procedural requirements for effective legal representation. The law ensures fair trial rights, proper service of process, and appellate procedures for resolving commercial and personal disputes in Chinese judicial system.
Arbitration Law
Arbitration Law provides frameworks for alternative dispute resolution through arbitration proceedings. It establishes arbitration institutions, procedural rules, and enforcement of arbitral awards. Foreign businesses often prefer arbitration for commercial disputes due to expertise, confidentiality, and enforceability. The law supports international arbitration practices and ensures arbitral awards receive proper recognition and enforcement in Chinese courts, making it attractive for cross-border dispute resolution.
Law on Chinese-Foreign Equity Joint Ventures
This law governs the formation and operation of equity joint ventures between Chinese and foreign partners. It defines investment structures, profit sharing, management responsibilities, and dispute resolution mechanisms. Although largely superseded by the Foreign Investment Law, it remains relevant for existing joint ventures. The law provides legal frameworks for technology transfer, capital contributions, and operational management in Sino-foreign business partnerships.
Law on Application of Laws to Foreign-Related Civil Relations
This law determines which legal systems apply to civil relationships involving foreign elements. It addresses conflicts of laws in international transactions, marriage, contracts, and property matters. Foreign parties must understand applicable law principles when engaging in cross-border activities. The law provides clarity on jurisdiction, choice of law, and legal procedures for foreign-related civil matters, ensuring predictable outcomes in international legal relationships.
Family and Marriage Laws
Family and marriage laws govern personal relationships, marriage, divorce, adoption, and inheritance matters in China. These laws are relevant for foreigners establishing family relationships in China, covering marriage registration, adoption procedures, and inheritance rights under Chinese civil law.
Marriage Law of the People's Republic of China
Marriage Law regulates marriage registration, divorce procedures, and family relationships in China. It covers marriage validity, property rights, child custody, and spousal support obligations. Foreign nationals marrying Chinese citizens must understand legal requirements, registration procedures, and property implications. The law ensures equal rights for spouses, protects children's interests, and provides legal frameworks for international marriages and cross-cultural family relationships within Chinese jurisdiction.
Adoption Law of the People's Republic of China
Adoption Law establishes procedures for child adoption, eligibility criteria, and legal effects of adoption relationships. It covers domestic and international adoptions with specific requirements for foreign adoptive parents. The law protects children's welfare, ensures proper vetting of adoptive families, and establishes legal procedures for adoption finalization. Important for foreign families seeking to adopt Chinese children or Chinese families considering international adoption arrangements.
Civil Code (Book Six: Inheritance)
Inheritance provisions in the Civil Code govern succession rights, will validity, and estate distribution in China. It covers intestate succession, testamentary rights, and inheritance procedures for Chinese assets. Foreign nationals with Chinese assets or family ties should understand inheritance laws affecting their estates. The law provides legal certainty for cross-border inheritance matters and ensures proper transfer of assets according to Chinese legal requirements and international conventions.
Criminal Laws
Criminal laws define crimes and punishments in China, establishing the legal framework for criminal justice. Foreign residents and visitors should understand these laws to ensure compliance and avoid legal issues, covering criminal code provisions, administrative procedures, and drug control regulations.
Criminal Law of the People's Republic of China
Criminal Law defines crimes, punishments, and criminal procedures in China's legal system. It covers various offenses from minor violations to serious crimes with specific penalties and sentencing guidelines. Foreign residents and visitors must understand criminal law provisions to avoid violations. The law includes provisions for corruption, fraud, drug offenses, and cybercrime. Recent amendments address emerging criminal activities and strengthen penalties for serious crimes affecting public safety and national security.
Administrative Procedure Law
Administrative Procedure Law governs government administrative actions, licensing procedures, and administrative enforcement. It establishes legal frameworks for administrative decision-making, public participation, and judicial review of administrative acts. Foreign businesses must understand administrative procedures for licensing, permits, and regulatory compliance. The law ensures transparency, accountability, and due process in government administration while protecting individual and corporate rights against arbitrary administrative actions.
Drug Control Law
Drug Control Law regulates narcotics control, drug prevention, and anti-drug enforcement in China. It covers drug trafficking penalties, rehabilitation programs, and international cooperation in drug control efforts. Foreign nationals must understand strict drug laws and severe penalties for drug-related offenses in China. The law emphasizes prevention, treatment, and law enforcement with zero tolerance for drug trafficking and severe consequences for drug possession and distribution activities.
National Security and Anti-Sanctions Laws
National security and anti-sanctions laws protect China's national interests and counter foreign sanctions. These laws are important for foreign businesses operating in China, covering national security obligations, anti-foreign sanctions measures, data security requirements, and export control regulations.
National Security Law of the People's Republic of China
National Security Law establishes comprehensive frameworks for protecting China's national security interests across various domains including political, economic, military, and cultural security. It defines national security responsibilities for individuals and organizations, including foreign entities operating in China. The law covers counterintelligence, state secrets protection, and national security review procedures affecting foreign investment and business operations requiring compliance with national security obligations.
Anti-Foreign Sanctions Law
Anti-Foreign Sanctions Law provides legal frameworks for China to respond to foreign sanctions through countermeasures and blocking measures. It prohibits compliance with certain foreign sanctions and establishes penalties for violations. Foreign companies operating in China must understand potential conflicts between Chinese anti-sanctions requirements and foreign sanctions regimes. The law aims to protect Chinese sovereignty and legitimate interests against unilateral foreign sanctions and extraterritorial jurisdiction.
Data Security Law
Data Security Law regulates data protection, processing activities, and cross-border data transfers in China. It establishes data classification systems, security obligations, and regulatory oversight mechanisms. Foreign companies handling Chinese data must comply with data localization, security assessments, and approval requirements for data exports. The law emphasizes data sovereignty, national security protection, and establishes strict penalties for data security violations affecting critical information infrastructure and important data.
Export Control Law
Export Control Law regulates the export of controlled items including dual-use goods, technologies, and services that may affect national security. It establishes licensing requirements, prohibited destinations, and end-user controls for sensitive technologies. Foreign companies engaged in technology transfer or export activities must understand controlled item lists, licensing procedures, and compliance obligations. The law ensures China's technological security while facilitating legitimate international trade and technology cooperation.
Tax and Financial Laws
Tax and financial laws regulate taxation, revenue collection, and foreign exchange in China. These laws are essential for foreign businesses and individuals with financial obligations in China, covering tax collection management, corporate income tax, and foreign exchange administration.
Tax Collection and Administration Law of the People's Republic of China
Tax Collection and Administration Law establishes tax collection procedures, taxpayer obligations, and administrative enforcement mechanisms in China. It covers tax registration, filing requirements, payment procedures, and penalty provisions for tax violations. Foreign businesses and individuals must understand tax compliance obligations, record-keeping requirements, and dispute resolution procedures. The law ensures efficient tax collection while protecting taxpayer rights and establishing legal frameworks for tax administration and enforcement.
Enterprise Income Tax Law
Enterprise Income Tax Law regulates corporate income taxation for both domestic and foreign enterprises operating in China. It covers tax rates, deductible expenses, tax incentives, and special provisions for foreign-invested enterprises. The law establishes unified tax treatment for domestic and foreign companies while providing preferential policies for encouraged industries and activities. Essential for foreign businesses planning China operations and understanding tax obligations, compliance requirements, and available tax benefits.
Foreign Exchange Administration Regulations
Foreign Exchange Administration Regulations govern foreign currency transactions, cross-border payments, and foreign exchange controls in China. They cover current account transactions, capital account operations, and foreign exchange settlement requirements. Foreign businesses must understand foreign exchange compliance, reporting obligations, and approval procedures for international transactions. These regulations ensure orderly foreign exchange markets while facilitating legitimate international trade and investment flows.
Other Related Laws
Other related laws cover various aspects of daily life and business operations in China. These laws are relevant for consumers, travelers, and businesses, covering consumer protection, product quality standards, tourism regulations, and environmental protection requirements.
Consumer Rights Protection Law
Consumer Rights Protection Law safeguards consumer interests, establishes seller obligations, and provides dispute resolution mechanisms for consumer transactions. It covers product quality, false advertising, refund rights, and consumer safety protection. Foreign businesses selling to Chinese consumers must understand compliance requirements, warranty obligations, and consumer rights provisions. The law strengthens consumer protection through enhanced penalties, e-commerce regulations, and improved dispute resolution procedures for better consumer experiences.
Product Quality Law
Product Quality Law regulates product standards, quality control, and safety requirements for goods manufactured and sold in China. It establishes quality assurance systems, inspection procedures, and liability frameworks for defective products. Foreign manufacturers and importers must comply with Chinese quality standards, certification requirements, and safety regulations. The law ensures product safety, protects consumer interests, and maintains market order through strict quality control and enforcement mechanisms.
Tourism Law
Tourism Law regulates tourism industry operations, tourist rights protection, and tourism service standards in China. It covers travel agency licensing, tour guide regulations, tourist safety, and dispute resolution procedures. Foreign tourists and tourism businesses should understand their rights and obligations under Chinese tourism law. The law promotes sustainable tourism development while ensuring tourist safety, service quality, and fair business practices in China's tourism industry.
Environmental Protection Law
Environmental Protection Law establishes comprehensive environmental protection frameworks, pollution control measures, and ecological conservation requirements. It covers environmental impact assessments, pollution discharge permits, and environmental liability for enterprises. Foreign companies operating in China must comply with environmental standards, obtain necessary permits, and implement pollution control measures. The law emphasizes sustainable development, green technology adoption, and strict environmental enforcement with severe penalties for violations.
Recent Legal Updates
Stay informed with the latest changes in Chinese law
Foreign Investment Law Implementation Regulations
Updated implementation guidelines for foreign investment in China, including new approval procedures and investment incentives.
Data Security Law Enforcement Guidelines
Comprehensive enforcement guidelines for data security compliance, affecting foreign companies operating in China.
Updated Employment Contract Template
Revised standard employment contract template with new clauses for foreign employees and remote work arrangements.
Cross-Border E-commerce Regulations
New regulations governing cross-border e-commerce operations, import duties, and consumer protection.
Legal Insights & Analysis
Expert insights and analysis on Chinese law developments for foreign businesses and individuals
New Corporate Law Amendments: Impact on Foreign Investment
Recent amendments to China's Corporate Law introduce significant changes affecting foreign-invested enterprises. Our legal experts analyze the key provisions and practical implications for international businesses.
Read More →Employment Contracts for Foreign Workers: Essential Guide
A comprehensive guide covering employment contract requirements, work permit procedures, and labor rights for foreign employees in China. Includes recent regulatory updates and best practices.
Read More →Intellectual Property Protection Strategies in China 2024
Effective strategies for protecting intellectual property rights in China. Our IP specialists share practical tips for trademark registration, patent filing, and enforcement mechanisms.
Read More →Individual Income Tax for Foreign Residents: 2024 Updates
Latest updates to individual income tax regulations affecting foreign residents in China. Includes new exemptions, filing requirements, and optimization strategies for tax compliance.
Read More →China's New Immigration Policies: Opportunities for Foreign Talent
Analysis of China's latest immigration policy reforms designed to attract international talent. Covers new visa categories, permanent residence pathways, and simplified procedures.
Read More →Cross-Border E-commerce Regulations: Compliance Guide
Essential compliance requirements for cross-border e-commerce operations in China. Covers licensing, product regulations, and data protection requirements for international sellers.
Read More →Need Help Understanding Chinese Law?
Our legal experts can help explain complex Chinese regulations and guide you through compliance requirements for your specific situation.