Investor's Guide Procedures for Registering a Joint Venture The Chinese partner should manage the application process which is outlined below: Prepare to present project proposal This is the key document which you will hopefully arrive at after extensive negotiations with your Chinese partner. It includes such information as descriptions of Chinese and foreign partners, purpose and usefulness of the venture, quantity and quality of capital invested, technological and material requirements, personnel requirements, and duration of joint venture. Register company's name with Shanghai Administration of Industry and Commerce. Prepare and submit feasibility study. This is a detailed business plan. For more information about what details are required, contact Shanghai Municipal Economic Relations and Trade Commission (SMERT). Submit contract and articles of association. Apply for approval certificate. Apply to Shanghai Administration of Industry and Commerce for business license. Obtain health permit. Apply for work permit and visa. Obtain resident permit and visa. Register with Tax Bureau. Register with Customs. Open a bank account.