【ICP License】What’s Required to Launch a Website in China?

When publishing web services such as websites or apps in China, it is mandatory to register an “ICP License” (Internet Content Provider license).

Under Chinese laws and regulations, this ICP License is required when providing or using internet-based web services, including corporate sites, e-commerce sites, and social games.

Types and Comparison of ICP Licenses

As shown above, there are two types of ICP Licenses: “Non-Commercial ICP License” and “Commercial ICP License,” each with different usage conditions and procedures.

For example, the Non-Commercial ICP License also includes news sites, bulletin board services, and blog sites, but these use cases are subject to individual review.

A key criterion for determining which ICP License applies is “whether the website has an online payment function.” If an online payment function exists, registration of a Commercial ICP License is required.

① About the “Non-Commercial ICP License” (Non-Operational ICP Filing)

As shown above, the Non-Commercial ICP License is a mandatory prior declaration procedure required for all websites originating from servers within China. In recent years, the registration of an ICP filing number and the public security filing have become a set.

Websites (including homepages and apps) published on the internet in China cannot be made publicly available if the Non-Commercial ICP License declaration is neglected.

If a site is published without this declaration, it may be subject to service suspension or penalties.

* The public security filing is officially called “Internet Website Security Filing” and is under the jurisdiction of the Cyber Security Bureau of the Ministry of Public Security. All websites (including personal and corporate sites) that have completed the ICP filing must apply for this.

Its main purpose is to verify the legality of site content, ensure the security of user data, and clarify the security responsibilities of the site operator.

Procedure and Display Method for “Non-Commercial ICP License” and “Public Security Filing”

The above diagram shows the procedure for applying for the Non-Commercial ICP License and the public security filing.

• *1: It is essential that the domain name is purchased/acquired from a Chinese registrar.
• *2: Display the information according to the specified method.

② About the “Commercial ICP License” (Operational ICP Permit)

< Sample: Commercial ICP License >

In China, as part of the telecommunications business licensing system, companies engaged in for-profit activities via the internet, such as SaaS, ASP, e-commerce, and games, are required to register a Commercial ICP License (Telecommunications and Information Service Business Operating Permit).

However, foreign companies cannot directly declare or register this Commercial ICP License. To operate such businesses in China, a foreign company must either collaborate with a domestic Chinese company or establish a local subsidiary within China.

* Currently, registration of a Commercial ICP License is possible for wholly foreign-owned enterprises only in “four regions (Beijing, Shanghai, Shenzhen, and Hainan).”

Applying for an ICP License through Alibaba Cloud

< Sample ① >

< Sample ② >

< Sample ③ >

As shown above, Alibaba Cloud allows you to apply for an ICP License directly from the cloud platform console.

* The application screen interface is available only in Chinese, and the application forms must be completed in Chinese.

Frequently Asked Questions about ICP Licenses

Summary

This article explained the indispensable “ICP License” for web services such as websites and apps operated in China.

Companies looking to deploy web services in China or build a digital infrastructure should consider introducing Alibaba Cloud.

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